“Why not?”
“Security measures,” I say. “You’ll have to wait at the Forge until she returns.”
“Security measures?” Grayson asks. “I am not a civilian. I am a soldier with clearance level to all government buildings.”
“Soldiers defect, and the rebels have a rumored Shifter in their ranks,” I add. “For all I know, you could be wearing Grayson Sullivan’s face, and I’d be none the wiser.”
“Bullshit,” he snarls. “What is your problem with me?”
“It’s not personal,” I say. “Its protocol.”
“Let me say bye to her,” he says, glancing over my shoulder. “I can’t just leave.”
“No need,” I say calmly. “I’ll pass along your well wishes.”
Grayson glares at me. I reckon if I were anyone less than the Commandant, he would let his fist swing.
“Hey, what’s going on?” Haven calls.
“Nothing, your friend has a report to write,” I call.
I turn my back on him and climb up the stone stairs. The corner of my mouth curves into a sly smile when I slam the door shut behind me.
I knock on the door. My ears hurt from the shrieking the sisters did when they reunited. I’m certain I’ll have trouble hearing tomorrow.
The commotion has finally died down. Haven was checked by the medic, and her sister has finally left her side to sleep.
“Come in,” Haven says.
She looks small, nestled on the big, guest bed. She’s wearing a black silk camisole. The delicate lace string hangs carelessly from her right shoulder. It feels strange to approach her in her private space. I clench my fists tight to my side and cautiously enter the room, sliding the door shut behind me.
Haven’s face drops at the sight of me.
“You look ecstatic to see me,” I say, leaning against the wall.
“Can we do this tomorrow?” She sighs. “I’ve had a long day.”
“Did the rebels reveal anything?” I ask. “Knox says they had you away from him for a bit.”
I study her face, searching for a crack, a waver, anything that tells me what she’s really thinking. Haven turns her back to me, dragging the duvet over her head like I don’t exist.
“We’ll talk tomorrow,” she says stubbornly. “Close the door on your way out.”
The dismissal lights a fuse in my chest. I cross the room in three strides and rip the blanket away, tossing it roughly across the room.
Haven inhales sharply, scrambling upright. She’s wearing a matching set of shorts, the fabric riding high on her thigh as she moves, revealing more of her smooth, golden skin. For half a second, I forget why I’m angry at all.
Haven slams her palms into my chest, fury clouding her green eyes.
“What the hell is wrong with you?” she shouts.
She’s stronger than she looks. Or maybe she just caught me off guard, because I rock back slightly.
“What’s wrong with me?” I bite out. “You’re hiding something! What is it that you know? Did the rebels reveal their grand plan to you?”
“Great, more delusions,” she says with a forced laugh. “I was kidnapped. They threatened to kill me, and you think I did what exactly? Do you think I became friends with them?”
“You seemed relieved when my gun misfired,” I say. “You were glad to see Prue get away.”
