Alex C. Vick's Blog, page 504

New Book, New Series, Cover Reveal

I'm so happy to be able to reveal the cover for Spell Tracker, the first book in the upcoming Light Mage Series

New Book, New Series, Cover Reveal

I'm so happy to be able to reveal the cover for Spell Tracker, the first book in the upcoming Light Mage Series

New Book, New Series, Cover Reveal

I'm so happy to be able to reveal the cover for Spell Tracker, the first book in the upcoming Light Mage Series

New Book, New Series, Cover Reveal

I'm so happy to be able to reveal the cover for Spell Tracker, the first book in the upcoming Light Mage Series

New Book, New Series, Seventh Chapter!

This weekend's blog post is Chapter Seven! Luca and Devin have a heart-to-heart, with Luca revealing a bit more about his magical identity in the process, and we also find out how Luca got that scar on his face during his gladiator training.

I'm getting ready to reveal the cover and blurb for the new book very soon, with publication still on track for 2018. In the meantime I'll keep blogging chapters. I've managed to plan ahead (very, very high level!) for three books, so it's looking like the Light Mage Series will be a trilogy. I could easily write a prequel too, but I'm getting ahead of myself there. It depends on whether readers are interested or not! You can catch up on any of the previous chapters via the New Series label at the top of this post. Thank you very much for reading ☺.

7 A Connection Neither Gabe nor Mina said anything, so I decided to go after Devin. I caught up to him just as the bell rang for the end of lunch. He ignored me and walked a little faster. His emotions were really starting to worry me. They were all over the place, the ribbons twisted into ropes in places.It would be a while before they merged into the suffocating prison that surrounded Cass, but she was hardly a good benchmark, being that she represented the absolute worst-case scenario.Devin went into the bathroom and I waited outside, pretending to examine my phone. Cass hadn’t replied to my text. I added her number to my contacts, almost typing in her former name, but I caught myself just in time. I willed the letters out of my head. If she ever heard me call her by that name, she might remember everything and I would have failed her.I considered whether to add him to my contacts as well. I could certainly use his real name—it wasn’t exactly a secret that he was the current XXX ( book title - to be revealed soon ). Except I didn’t want to give him the satisfaction. I looked at the messages he’d sent me. Three restrictions so far. I could only hope he was done.By the time Devin emerged, the corridor was empty. He frowned at me. “I’m late.”“Yeah, me too,” I replied. “Do you want to skip next period and go somewhere to talk?”“No, I’m… What did you just say?”“Do you want to go somewhere and talk?” I repeated.“With you?”“You don’t have to.” I won’t make you. But I want to help.“I can’t,” he said, looking disappointed. “I haven’t skipped class since freshman year. I promised my mom…”“What class do you have now?”“English. With Mr. Nux.”“Where is it?”“Room 7B. It’s—”“I know where it is. Come on.”We half walked and half ran to 7B. Mr. Nux, tall, fuzzy-haired, and with a genial expression on his face, was closing the door when we got there.“Devin. You’re just in time.”“Me specta,” I said. The teacher’s gaze shifted to my face. “Devin isn’t feeling very well. He can’t attend your class today. If there’s an assignment, please email it to him. Me credite.”“Of course,” he responded. “Of course I believe you. Hope you feel better soon, Devin.”He closed the door.“What the actual…?” said Devin.I grinned. “Now you’re not skipping class. You’re sick.”“And you?” he asked.“Oh,” I said, my grin widening, “I’m definitelyskipping class.” He laughed. “Where should we go?”I can’t leave the school. “Somewhere no one can hear us. Are there any rooms that don’t get used for teaching?”He thought for a moment. “The backstage area next to the main hall, where I helped Mina fix her makeup for last year’s production. It’s a dump for all the junk from past plays, like costumes and stuff.” It wasn’t bad, as a place to escape to. The old props were a little bizarre, but it was private, and once I’d adjusted the lighting with a quick, “Suavis,” it was cozy enough. We sat on the floor, our legs stretched out next to each other. I could hear his breathing.“I like you,” I said immediately. “I want to be friends with you.”He gave me a sideways glance. “Really?”“Yeah. I know Gabe doesn’t think much of me, and I have no idea what to make of Mina, but… non curamus.”“I want to be friends with you too. God, I feel like I’m in fourth grade.”“I wish I’d known you in fourth grade,” I said.“You don’t. I was worse than Cass.”My heart twisted inside my chest at the reminder. “Sounds impossible,” I replied, keeping my voice neutral.He was different now. Maybe he’d had a guardian once, and they’d helped him. Maybe they’d thought they were done. And now his emotions were getting away from him again. I wondered what had happened over the summer.“Do you like her?” he asked. “Mina’s a nightmare, but her instincts are usually right.”“It’s not… That’s not it,” I replied, not really answering his question but not wanting to lie to him either. “Like” doesn’t really cover it.I flashed back to the Ludus Magnus in Rome, the place where Cass and I had first met. There, gladiators like us had been instructed in the art of dispensing death and entertainment, the one alongside the other, for the viewing pleasure of the mob.We’d been adversaries from the start. I’d arrived two days after her, both of us purchased by the lanista at different auctions. He’d been touring the provinces for new blood, expecting that co-Emperor Lucius Verus would soon return victorious from his campaign in Mesopotamia. In 166 AD, Marcus Aurelius, the emperor, would naturally celebrate with new games in the Colosseum. New games meant new gladiators. It wasn’t a profession with a long life expectancy.We were both young and angry. Both determined to survive at any cost, even if that cost was the life of the other. She was better educated than I was, provoking me to fury one complicated insult at a time. I was the better fighter, but only just. It had been an ordinary training session when everything changed. I only had to close my eyes and I felt like I was there again. It was hot. My tunic was stuck to my chest and dust rose up around us as our feet skidded back and forth across the dirt. We were still learning, neither of us assigned to a particular fighting style yet. Our swords met over and over, and apart from our accelerated breathing, the clacking of one wooden rudisagainst the other was the only sound we made.I deflected a jab to my stomach a little too late. The tip of her sword grazed my tunic and I scowled.“Getting tired, Avitus?”I didn’t answer, immediately going back on the attack. I had to narrow my eyes against the lowering sun, and when our swords locked I maneuvered her into a quarter-turn. That’s better.We were close enough that I could smell the heat of her body and see the perspiration on her upper lip. I pushed with all my strength, muscles burning, and gradually my sword drove hers backward, closer and closer to her face. I looked into her eyes, expecting to see the same contempt she always showed me. It wasn’t there.That was the moment. As if Jupiter himself reached down with a lightning bolt to strike us where we stood. My sword was against her neck. She made a noise I’d never heard before and her pupils expanded.My hand rose to touch the scar on my cheek. She’d given that to me about thirty seconds later when I’d dropped my guard, her sword easily slicing into my skin and leaving behind a wooden splinter an inch long. She’d been furious with me for the way I’d made her feel, though I hadn’t discovered that until much later.“You’re smiling,” said Devin. “I guess you do like her.”“No. She reminds me of someone, that’s all. Prior socius,” I added, almost to myself. I cleared my throat. Devin looked unconvinced.“Look, I wouldn’t say no to being friends with her, but nothing else,” I said firmly. “Not with her.”Wait, not with her? Not with anyone, Luca.“So… you speak Latin,” he said.“I do.”“And it does something.”“Does it?”He huffed a sigh. “I think so. Not always. Like, nothing happens when you say your name, but when it’s… when you told Mr. Mason not to worry. Or Mr. Nux just now.”“Perhaps I’m just very persuasive,” I said quietly.It was the guardians’ way. Persuade. Hint. Support. Show potential solutions to the assignment without actually telling them what to do. They must learn their lesson unaided, however difficult that may be. Provide context, and the lesson is undermined. Interrupt free will, and the lesson is done.Devin was fiddling with a button on his shirt. “You are persuasive. It’s terrifying. I just met you, but if you gave me even the slightest bit of encouragement… I’d tell you anything. Everything.”“What would you tell me?” I said, my voice even softer than before.“Don’t.”He drew up his knees. His emotions overflowed again, in a rush, like a dam had broken. I shifted position so that I was more or less facing him.“I want to help you,” I said. I shook my head when he began to protest. “You don’t have to tell me anything. Hold out your hands.”I showed him what I meant, raising my hands until they were a few inches away from my torso, palms downward.“I’m just going to… Percipio,” I said.He froze. “What the hell is that?”“It’s you. I mean, it’s your state of mind, right now. All the layers of emotion you’re producing.”“It’s… horrible. Like snakes and fog.” He made a face. “It tastes bitter.”“Well, some of it is. You need to think back to what the cause might be and deal with it.”“I can’t,” he said immediately. Too fast.“Oh. You already know what’s causing it,” I said in surprise.His face closed off and he pulled his hands back. “I can’t,” he repeated forcefully. “I promised.”I was so tempted to look at his life path. But it was bad enough that I’d already invaded Mr. Mason’s privacy that way. Devin deserved better than that from me. He said he wanted to be my friend. I hadn’t had a friend since… don’t go there again, Luca.“I’m sorry,” I said. “Rescindo.”Devin relaxed.“It’s still there,” I couldn’t help adding. “Just because you can’t feel it doesn’t mean it’s gone. It won’t go away on its own.”“I can’t,” he said again, remarkably calm for someone who’d just touched the unresolved life lesson that might one day kill him. Life lessons were sneaky like that. They just kept representing themselves in different ways, over and over, becoming more difficult to ignore each time. Eventually, darkness accumulated to such a degree that the time left to learn just… ran out.It might be quick or slow. Everyone was different. But there was no stopping him once the balance tipped. He enforced his contracts without mercy.We were both silent for a moment.“Tell me about the Latin,” he said eventually. “How do you make it… do those things?”I sighed. “Do you really want to know? It will be another secret you have to keep…”“What is it?” he said, grinning. “Are you a spy? Has everyone in the school been brainwashed to respond to your every Latin instruction?”He did have the most amazing smile. Luca, you are so shallow.“Latin is my language. Because of who I am, that makes it powerful. When I use it with intent…”He leaned forward. “Show me. Do something.”I looked at the ceiling. “Nix,” I said. Straight away, snowflakes began to fall, soft, white, and freezing cold. Devin pushed himself to a standing position and turned his face upward.“Oh my God,” he said. His face, rather appropriately, was lit up like a kid on Christmas morning. “I’ve never seen real snow before,” he added.After a little while he sat down again, kneeling in front of me. “It’s magic. Isn’t it?”I lifted one shoulder in a half-shrug. “Yes.”“Aren’t you worried I’ll tell someone?”“And who would believe you?”He laughed. “Nobody.”“Are we still friends?” I asked.“Of course,” he replied, making eye contact. I returned his stare, holding nothing back. I felt the connection flare into life, like stepping from shadow into sunshine. So did he, if his dazed expression was anything to go by. My magic glowed. There were a couple of snowflakes on his eyelashes. “You… you look like… like an angel.”I suppose I do.

Bonus Content - How Andy and Jax Became Friends

Today’s blog post is an additional scene about Penny’s brother. A couple of readers have asked me what happened to Andy in between Controlling Magic and Connecting Magic. Did he find it easy to reconcile becoming a magician with his earthbound life? Well… not exactly. I doubt Andy will be too happy about me revealing the details, but I also know that Jax will be delighted…

New Book, New Series, Sixth Chapter

This weekend's blog post is Chapter Six! Luca has a temporary crisis of confidence before trying to figure out what's really going on between Devin, Gabe, and Mina. You can catch up on any of the previous chapters via the New Series label at the top of this post. Thank you very much for reading ☺.

6 A Snapping Point
By the time we returned to perform in front of the rest of the class I was a wreck. I could only hope the chaos inside my head didn’t show on my face. I delivered my lines, holding on to Benedick’s self-righteous indignation and sarcasm just long enough for us to earn a round of applause.“I didn’t want to make a casting decision so early in the semester, but you two have incredible chemistry,” said Miss Randall. “I’m going to give you a couple more scenes to try, and if you can perform them equally well, the parts are yours.”After we sat down, I attempted to shield myself. I turned my face into my shoulder, whispering, “Contego,” and gradually, my awareness of her energy and the history between us retreated behind the spell. When Mina stood up to perform I had calmed down enough to pay attention. She was good, presenting herself as the villain, Don John, with a sinister intensity that was very compelling. Miss Randall offered her the part there and then.When the bell rang for lunch, I didn’t get up straight away. The prospect of reading lines with Cass, playing out the story of two proud characters who started as enemies and ended up as lovers, was like some hideous nightmare where our shared past would replay over and over. How could I deal with that while I was trying to— My phone chimed with a text. Slowly, I removed it from my pocket, knowing what I would find when I turned it over.“Hello, Luca. How do you like my third restriction? Yes, I chose the play. Yes, I paired you together. Let’s see if your oh-so-serene Light Mage objectivity can withstand an emotional onslaught of this magnitude. Can’t wait to find out :)”This message didn’t make me angry. Still reeling from what had just happened, all I felt was despair. I wondered if I should just give up. I only had the smallest chance of success anyway. No matter what I did, he would never stop presenting me with obstacles. For a few seconds I wallowed in self-pity.What’s the matter with me? I never give up. I’m not going to start now. Besides, I wanted more time with Cass and now I have it. This is a good thing.A shadow fell over the screen. “Avi. We should swap details.”It was Cass. She was holding her phone and looking down at mine expectantly.“You want my number?”“No. I want this part. Being able to contact you is unfortunately a necessity if that is to happen.” “I… er… it’s new. The phone. I haven’t… I’m not set up yet.”“I suppose you’ll have to text me, then.” She reeled off a series of numbers and I rather laboriously typed them in. I hesitated before deciding on, “Hey,” and pressing Send.“Thanks,” she said, before putting her phone away. “I’ll send you an invitation later. Miss Randall will set up a messaging group for the play as well, just so you know.” She walked off, not saying another word to me or anyone else. We’d still only made eye contact that one time.With her departure I felt better. I promised myself I would devise a different coping strategy before we met up again. A couple of students spoke to me on their way out, praising my performance. It was getting easier each time: the introductions, the casual banter. Avitus Sequani was becoming more like a real person.“Well, well, well.” Mina, the last to leave, took a seat next to me. I noticed that her caramel skin had a dusting of freckles, visible even through her makeup under the harsh overhead light. “She doesn’t date, y’know. So don’t get your hopes up.”“You were great,” I said, ignoring her insinuation.“Thanks.” She looked me up and down. “You’re not turning out like I expected.”I looked her up and down too. “You never met me before Friday. How would you know what to expect?”“I always prejudge. I can’t help it.”“Oh, yeah? It’s entirely beyond your control?”She smiled. “Maybe not. I guess it’s a habit.”“I suppose I prejudged you too, a little,” I admitted. “Anyone with half a brain can see you have a… position at this school.”“Yeah. I’ve earned it, too. And I’ll do whatever it takes to keep it. It’s all I…” She stopped talking and frowned. “I don’t know why I said that.”Because no one can hide their true nature from a guardian. I stood up. “Why don’t we get some lunch and you can tell me how to get along better with Gabe,” I suggested.Mina looked up at me. “Why would I do that?”“Because it would make things easier for Devin. Your friend.”She sighed. “Even if I wanted to help you… you have no idea how complicated things are right now.”“Afraid you’ll fail?”At that, Mina laughed. “You’ve got some nerve for a new guy.”“Maybe I’m just stupid. You should probably take pity on me.”She shook her head. “More like too smart for your own good.” When we arrived at the cafeteria I hardly recognized it from the Friday before. It was like walking into a living wall of noise and smells that overloaded my senses. Since I’d crossed over, everything was in high definition. I was grateful I didn’t need to eat. Appetizing, it wasn’t.Devin and Gabe were sitting together, not talking. There was an extra tray alongside Gabe, and Mina sat down in front of it. She told the person next to Devin to get out of the way, and I took their chair with a muttered apology.“Hey, Avi,” said Devin. “How’s it going?”I returned his smile, glad to see he was more relaxed than he’d been earlier.Mina leaned into Gabe. His blond hair was wet at the back and she curled a strand around her finger. “Your shampoo is so amazing,” she said, breathing in. “I love the smell of coconut.”Gabe stiffened. “Since when?” he said.“Since always. Don’t look so worried. I’m not going to proposition you right in the middle of the cafeteria.” She dropped her hand.“I’m not worried,” he protested.“Of course you’re not,” she replied, pulling the tray closer. “Thanks to whoever got my lunch, by the way. How was basketball?”“Good,” Devin replied. “I think I might make the first team this year. Gabe’s going to help me with some one-on-one practice after school.”There was a beat of silence. “I bet he is,” Mina said in a low voice, and Gabe’s face turned red. He shifted in his chair.“Do you play any sports, Avi?” said Devin. His gaze shifted down my torso. “You look like you… do you?” He cleared his throat and rubbed the back of his neck. It was very cute. Not that I cared one way or the other, of course.I didn’t know how to answer. I don’t think fighting to the death is a recognized spectator sport in this school.“I used to do a bit of track and field. I’m not all that good, though.”“Tell us something about Avitus Sequani,” said Mina. “Ordinary, from Europe, isn’t really much to go on.”“What do you want to know?”“Are you being deliberately evasive?” she said, raising her eyebrows.“That’s what you want to know?” I said, deadpan, and Devin laughed. “I’m not that interesting,” I lied. “I moved here very recently, so I’m kind of clueless about the local area and the school and everything. I’ll be eighteen in October. I’m good at Math and History and terrible at anything IT-related.”“Favorite color?” said Mina.“Red.”“Parents?”“Yes. Two.” Avi’s parents were a slave and a Roman citizen who should have kept his ego under his tunic where it belonged.“Have you ever been in love?” Mina traced the top of her soda can with her fingers, round and round.“I’m not sure that’s any of your business, considering we only just met.”“So that’s a yes. Are you in a relationship now?”“Still none of your business.” I folded my arms. Gods, she’s persistent. Who the hell does she think she is?She gave me a thoughtful look, completely unintimidated by my irritation. A couple of girls came up to the table, asking Mina about a party she was apparently planning for her birthday in a couple of weeks’ time. It was like watching senators pay court to the Roman emperor. On a much smaller scale, of course, but the basic principle was the same.It helped me to calm down. I suppressed a smile. Imagine Lucius Verus as a high school teenager reduced to planning parties and debating wardrobe and makeup choices.One of the girls turned to me. “Are you going?”As I can’t leave the school grounds, it’s unlikely.“I haven’t been invited,” I said.“You can go with me,” said Devin. No one said anything. “Can’t he?” Mina nodded. “If he’s that important to you,” she said. The girls giggled and one of them whispered something to Mina before they left.“I’ll have to check,” I said to Devin. “Thanks, though.”Gabe watched us exchange smiles and his face darkened. He gave the empty table in front of me a pointed look. “Aren’t you going to eat anything?”I scanned the room, pretending to consider the food on offer. “I guess I’ll eat later. First day nerves, you know…”“Nerves? You? Yeah, right.” He picked up his fork and moved the pasta on his tray back and forth.“Oh, Gabe, grow up,” said Mina.He threw down the fork. “So now you’re a fully paid-up member of the freak fan club too?”“For God’s sake,” said Devin, pushing his chair back. “Let it go, will you?”“Eat something,” said Gabe. “Prove that you’re human.”Mina laughed. “Seriously? Gabe, I think you might be taking this a little far.”“You didn’t see what he did.”“No one saw it because he didn’t do anything!” said Devin, his voice rising. “I don’t know what your problem is, but you need to get over it. So he’s not hungry. No big deal.”“If it’s no big deal, then why doesn’t he just eat something?” said Gabe stubbornly.I reached forward and grabbed a handful of chips from Gabe’s tray. After I stuffed them in my mouth, I held up my hand as if to hide my chewing. The background noise was enough to cover my “Dispareo,” and the chips melted away.“Satisfied?” I asked him.He didn’t answer. “Sure you don’t want to see if he sparkles in the sunlight? Or maybe check his pockets for the key to an alien spaceship?” said Mina.“Shut up,” Gabe muttered.Mina changed the subject, and I sighed with relief. She talked about Drama class and Miss Randall’s unexpected choice of play. Devin congratulated her on her casting. “It must not be denied, but I am a plain-dealing villain,” she said, delivering one of Don John’s lines with a wicked grin. “Oh, and Cavi is now a thing. I’ve decided.”We all stared at her. My relief vanished. “Cass and Avi,” she added, coating one of her fries in mayonnaise and eating it slowly. “Yum.”“They’re not… That’s not funny,” said Devin.“It’s not supposed to be. They’re getting the lead parts. The chance of life imitating art at some point has got to be high, don’t you think?”“I don’t know why I’m friends with you. You’re such a bitch lately,” said Devin.“I know. You love me, really.” She ate another fry.“Cass will go postal when she finds out,” said Gabe.“No, she won’t. She’s on a final warning, and she wants this part.”“Why would you do that?” I asked. My anger was rising. I couldn’t help it.“If I don’t, someone else will. The angry loner and the gorgeous, enigmatic new guy… practicing their lines together… the gossip’s inevitable.”“Lots of things are inevitable. But who are you to decide when they happen?”“Oh, I’m sorry, Avi.” She gave me an innocent smile. “I thought you wanted me to help you get along better with Gabe. He’ll be happy if you and Cass are an item, won’t you Gabe? Rather you and Cass than you and D—”“Stop! Just stop!” Devin half rose out of his chair and students at the surrounding tables turned to look at us.After a few more seconds, Devin grabbed his backpack and all but ran out of the cafeteria. Gabe looked like someone had punched him in the stomach. Mina took a slow, careful sip from her soda can. I would have believed her unconcerned by Devin’s reaction, if the can hadn’t wobbled as she set it back down on the table.What is going on?

New Book, New Series, Sixth Chapter

This weekend's blog post is Chapter Six! Luca has a temporary crisis of confidence before trying to figure out what's really going on between Devin, Gabe, and Mina. You can catch up on any of the previous chapters via the New Series label at the top of this post. Thank you very much for reading ☺.

6 A Snapping Point
By the time we returned to perform in front of the rest of the class I was a wreck. I could only hope the chaos inside my head didn’t show on my face. I delivered my lines, holding on to Benedick’s self-righteous indignation and sarcasm just long enough for us to earn a round of applause.“I didn’t want to make a casting decision so early in the semester, but you two have incredible chemistry,” said Miss Randall. “I’m going to give you a couple more scenes to try, and if you can perform them equally well, the parts are yours.”After we sat down, I attempted to shield myself. I turned my face into my shoulder, whispering, “Contego,” and gradually, my awareness of her energy and the history between us retreated behind the spell. When Mina stood up to perform I had calmed down enough to pay attention. She was good, presenting herself as the villain, Don John, with a sinister intensity that was very compelling. Miss Randall offered her the part there and then.When the bell rang for lunch, I didn’t get up straight away. The prospect of reading lines with Cass, playing out the story of two proud characters who started as enemies and ended up as lovers, was like some hideous nightmare where our shared past would replay over and over. How could I deal with that while I was trying to— My phone chimed with a text. Slowly, I removed it from my pocket, knowing what I would find when I turned it over.“Hello, Luca. How do you like my third restriction? Yes, I chose the play. Yes, I paired you together. Let’s see if your oh-so-serene Light Mage objectivity can withstand an emotional onslaught of this magnitude. Can’t wait to find out :)”This message didn’t make me angry. Still reeling from what had just happened, all I felt was despair. I wondered if I should just give up. I only had the smallest chance of success anyway. No matter what I did, he would never stop presenting me with obstacles. For a few seconds I wallowed in self-pity.What’s the matter with me? I never give up. I’m not going to start now. Besides, I wanted more time with Cass and now I have it. This is a good thing.A shadow fell over the screen. “Avi. We should swap details.”It was Cass. She was holding her phone and looking down at mine expectantly.“You want my number?”“No. I want this part. Being able to contact you is unfortunately a necessity if that is to happen.” “I… er… it’s new. The phone. I haven’t… I’m not set up yet.”“I suppose you’ll have to text me, then.” She reeled off a series of numbers and I rather laboriously typed them in. I hesitated before deciding on, “Hey,” and pressing Send.“Thanks,” she said, before putting her phone away. “I’ll send you an invitation later. Miss Randall will set up a messaging group for the play as well, just so you know.” She walked off, not saying another word to me or anyone else. We’d still only made eye contact that one time.With her departure I felt better. I promised myself I would devise a different coping strategy before we met up again. A couple of students spoke to me on their way out, praising my performance. It was getting easier each time: the introductions, the casual banter. Avitus Sequani was becoming more like a real person.“Well, well, well.” Mina, the last to leave, took a seat next to me. I noticed that her caramel skin had a dusting of freckles, visible even through her makeup under the harsh overhead light. “She doesn’t date, y’know. So don’t get your hopes up.”“You were great,” I said, ignoring her insinuation.“Thanks.” She looked me up and down. “You’re not turning out like I expected.”I looked her up and down too. “You never met me before Friday. How would you know what to expect?”“I always prejudge. I can’t help it.”“Oh, yeah? It’s entirely beyond your control?”She smiled. “Maybe not. I guess it’s a habit.”“I suppose I prejudged you too, a little,” I admitted. “Anyone with half a brain can see you have a… position at this school.”“Yeah. I’ve earned it, too. And I’ll do whatever it takes to keep it. It’s all I…” She stopped talking and frowned. “I don’t know why I said that.”Because no one can hide their true nature from a guardian. I stood up. “Why don’t we get some lunch and you can tell me how to get along better with Gabe,” I suggested.Mina looked up at me. “Why would I do that?”“Because it would make things easier for Devin. Your friend.”She sighed. “Even if I wanted to help you… you have no idea how complicated things are right now.”“Afraid you’ll fail?”At that, Mina laughed. “You’ve got some nerve for a new guy.”“Maybe I’m just stupid. You should probably take pity on me.”She shook her head. “More like too smart for your own good.” When we arrived at the cafeteria I hardly recognized it from the Friday before. It was like walking into a living wall of noise and smells that overloaded my senses. Since I’d crossed over, everything was in high definition. I was grateful I didn’t need to eat. Appetizing, it wasn’t.Devin and Gabe were sitting together, not talking. There was an extra tray alongside Gabe, and Mina sat down in front of it. She told the person next to Devin to get out of the way, and I took their chair with a muttered apology.“Hey, Avi,” said Devin. “How’s it going?”I returned his smile, glad to see he was more relaxed than he’d been earlier.Mina leaned into Gabe. His blond hair was wet at the back and she curled a strand around her finger. “Your shampoo is so amazing,” she said, breathing in. “I love the smell of coconut.”Gabe stiffened. “Since when?” he said.“Since always. Don’t look so worried. I’m not going to proposition you right in the middle of the cafeteria.” She dropped her hand.“I’m not worried,” he protested.“Of course you’re not,” she replied, pulling the tray closer. “Thanks to whoever got my lunch, by the way. How was basketball?”“Good,” Devin replied. “I think I might make the first team this year. Gabe’s going to help me with some one-on-one practice after school.”There was a beat of silence. “I bet he is,” Mina said in a low voice, and Gabe’s face turned red. He shifted in his chair.“Do you play any sports, Avi?” said Devin. His gaze shifted down my torso. “You look like you… do you?” He cleared his throat and rubbed the back of his neck. It was very cute. Not that I cared one way or the other, of course.I didn’t know how to answer. I don’t think fighting to the death is a recognized spectator sport in this school.“I used to do a bit of track and field. I’m not all that good, though.”“Tell us something about Avitus Sequani,” said Mina. “Ordinary, from Europe, isn’t really much to go on.”“What do you want to know?”“Are you being deliberately evasive?” she said, raising her eyebrows.“That’s what you want to know?” I said, deadpan, and Devin laughed. “I’m not that interesting,” I lied. “I moved here very recently, so I’m kind of clueless about the local area and the school and everything. I’ll be eighteen in October. I’m good at Math and History and terrible at anything IT-related.”“Favorite color?” said Mina.“Red.”“Parents?”“Yes. Two.” Avi’s parents were a slave and a Roman citizen who should have kept his ego under his tunic where it belonged.“Have you ever been in love?” Mina traced the top of her soda can with her fingers, round and round.“I’m not sure that’s any of your business, considering we only just met.”“So that’s a yes. Are you in a relationship now?”“Still none of your business.” I folded my arms. Gods, she’s persistent. Who the hell does she think she is?She gave me a thoughtful look, completely unintimidated by my irritation. A couple of girls came up to the table, asking Mina about a party she was apparently planning for her birthday in a couple of weeks’ time. It was like watching senators pay court to the Roman emperor. On a much smaller scale, of course, but the basic principle was the same.It helped me to calm down. I suppressed a smile. Imagine Lucius Verus as a high school teenager reduced to planning parties and debating wardrobe and makeup choices.One of the girls turned to me. “Are you going?”As I can’t leave the school grounds, it’s unlikely.“I haven’t been invited,” I said.“You can go with me,” said Devin. No one said anything. “Can’t he?” Mina nodded. “If he’s that important to you,” she said. The girls giggled and one of them whispered something to Mina before they left.“I’ll have to check,” I said to Devin. “Thanks, though.”Gabe watched us exchange smiles and his face darkened. He gave the empty table in front of me a pointed look. “Aren’t you going to eat anything?”I scanned the room, pretending to consider the food on offer. “I guess I’ll eat later. First day nerves, you know…”“Nerves? You? Yeah, right.” He picked up his fork and moved the pasta on his tray back and forth.“Oh, Gabe, grow up,” said Mina.He threw down the fork. “So now you’re a fully paid-up member of the freak fan club too?”“For God’s sake,” said Devin, pushing his chair back. “Let it go, will you?”“Eat something,” said Gabe. “Prove that you’re human.”Mina laughed. “Seriously? Gabe, I think you might be taking this a little far.”“You didn’t see what he did.”“No one saw it because he didn’t do anything!” said Devin, his voice rising. “I don’t know what your problem is, but you need to get over it. So he’s not hungry. No big deal.”“If it’s no big deal, then why doesn’t he just eat something?” said Gabe stubbornly.I reached forward and grabbed a handful of chips from Gabe’s tray. After I stuffed them in my mouth, I held up my hand as if to hide my chewing. The background noise was enough to cover my “Dispareo,” and the chips melted away.“Satisfied?” I asked him.He didn’t answer. “Sure you don’t want to see if he sparkles in the sunlight? Or maybe check his pockets for the key to an alien spaceship?” said Mina.“Shut up,” Gabe muttered.Mina changed the subject, and I sighed with relief. She talked about Drama class and Miss Randall’s unexpected choice of play. Devin congratulated her on her casting. “It must not be denied, but I am a plain-dealing villain,” she said, delivering one of Don John’s lines with a wicked grin. “Oh, and Cavi is now a thing. I’ve decided.”We all stared at her. My relief vanished. “Cass and Avi,” she added, coating one of her fries in mayonnaise and eating it slowly. “Yum.”“They’re not… That’s not funny,” said Devin.“It’s not supposed to be. They’re getting the lead parts. The chance of life imitating art at some point has got to be high, don’t you think?”“I don’t know why I’m friends with you. You’re such a bitch lately,” said Devin.“I know. You love me, really.” She ate another fry.“Cass will go postal when she finds out,” said Gabe.“No, she won’t. She’s on a final warning, and she wants this part.”“Why would you do that?” I asked. My anger was rising. I couldn’t help it.“If I don’t, someone else will. The angry loner and the gorgeous, enigmatic new guy… practicing their lines together… the gossip’s inevitable.”“Lots of things are inevitable. But who are you to decide when they happen?”“Oh, I’m sorry, Avi.” She gave me an innocent smile. “I thought you wanted me to help you get along better with Gabe. He’ll be happy if you and Cass are an item, won’t you Gabe? Rather you and Cass than you and D—”“Stop! Just stop!” Devin half rose out of his chair and students at the surrounding tables turned to look at us.After a few more seconds, Devin grabbed his backpack and all but ran out of the cafeteria. Gabe looked like someone had punched him in the stomach. Mina took a slow, careful sip from her soda can. I would have believed her unconcerned by Devin’s reaction, if the can hadn’t wobbled as she set it back down on the table.What is going on?

New Book, New Series, Sixth Chapter

This weekend's blog post is Chapter Six! Luca has a temporary crisis of confidence before trying to figure out what's really going on between Devin, Gabe, and Mina. You can catch up on any of the previous chapters via the New Series label at the top of this post. Thank you very much for reading ☺.

6 A Snapping Point
By the time we returned to perform in front of the rest of the class I was a wreck. I could only hope the chaos inside my head didn’t show on my face. I delivered my lines, holding on to Benedick’s self-righteous indignation and sarcasm just long enough for us to earn a round of applause.“I didn’t want to make a casting decision so early in the semester, but you two have incredible chemistry,” said Miss Randall. “I’m going to give you a couple more scenes to try, and if you can perform them equally well, the parts are yours.”After we sat down, I attempted to shield myself. I turned my face into my shoulder, whispering, “Contego,” and gradually, my awareness of her energy and the history between us retreated behind the spell. When Mina stood up to perform I had calmed down enough to pay attention. She was good, presenting herself as the villain, Don John, with a sinister intensity that was very compelling. Miss Randall offered her the part there and then.When the bell rang for lunch, I didn’t get up straight away. The prospect of reading lines with Cass, playing out the story of two proud characters who started as enemies and ended up as lovers, was like some hideous nightmare where our shared past would replay over and over. How could I deal with that while I was trying to— My phone chimed with a text. Slowly, I removed it from my pocket, knowing what I would find when I turned it over.“Hello, Luca. How do you like my third restriction? Yes, I chose the play. Yes, I paired you together. Let’s see if your oh-so-serene Light Mage objectivity can withstand an emotional onslaught of this magnitude. Can’t wait to find out :)”This message didn’t make me angry. Still reeling from what had just happened, all I felt was despair. I wondered if I should just give up. I only had the smallest chance of success anyway. No matter what I did, he would never stop presenting me with obstacles. For a few seconds I wallowed in self-pity.What’s the matter with me? I never give up. I’m not going to start now. Besides, I wanted more time with Cass and now I have it. This is a good thing.A shadow fell over the screen. “Avi. We should swap details.”It was Cass. She was holding her phone and looking down at mine expectantly.“You want my number?”“No. I want this part. Being able to contact you is unfortunately a necessity if that is to happen.” “I… er… it’s new. The phone. I haven’t… I’m not set up yet.”“I suppose you’ll have to text me, then.” She reeled off a series of numbers and I rather laboriously typed them in. I hesitated before deciding on, “Hey,” and pressing Send.“Thanks,” she said, before putting her phone away. “I’ll send you an invitation later. Miss Randall will set up a messaging group for the play as well, just so you know.” She walked off, not saying another word to me or anyone else. We’d still only made eye contact that one time.With her departure I felt better. I promised myself I would devise a different coping strategy before we met up again. A couple of students spoke to me on their way out, praising my performance. It was getting easier each time: the introductions, the casual banter. Avitus Sequani was becoming more like a real person.“Well, well, well.” Mina, the last to leave, took a seat next to me. I noticed that her caramel skin had a dusting of freckles, visible even through her makeup under the harsh overhead light. “She doesn’t date, y’know. So don’t get your hopes up.”“You were great,” I said, ignoring her insinuation.“Thanks.” She looked me up and down. “You’re not turning out like I expected.”I looked her up and down too. “You never met me before Friday. How would you know what to expect?”“I always prejudge. I can’t help it.”“Oh, yeah? It’s entirely beyond your control?”She smiled. “Maybe not. I guess it’s a habit.”“I suppose I prejudged you too, a little,” I admitted. “Anyone with half a brain can see you have a… position at this school.”“Yeah. I’ve earned it, too. And I’ll do whatever it takes to keep it. It’s all I…” She stopped talking and frowned. “I don’t know why I said that.”Because no one can hide their true nature from a guardian. I stood up. “Why don’t we get some lunch and you can tell me how to get along better with Gabe,” I suggested.Mina looked up at me. “Why would I do that?”“Because it would make things easier for Devin. Your friend.”She sighed. “Even if I wanted to help you… you have no idea how complicated things are right now.”“Afraid you’ll fail?”At that, Mina laughed. “You’ve got some nerve for a new guy.”“Maybe I’m just stupid. You should probably take pity on me.”She shook her head. “More like too smart for your own good.” When we arrived at the cafeteria I hardly recognized it from the Friday before. It was like walking into a living wall of noise and smells that overloaded my senses. Since I’d crossed over, everything was in high definition. I was grateful I didn’t need to eat. Appetizing, it wasn’t.Devin and Gabe were sitting together, not talking. There was an extra tray alongside Gabe, and Mina sat down in front of it. She told the person next to Devin to get out of the way, and I took their chair with a muttered apology.“Hey, Avi,” said Devin. “How’s it going?”I returned his smile, glad to see he was more relaxed than he’d been earlier.Mina leaned into Gabe. His blond hair was wet at the back and she curled a strand around her finger. “Your shampoo is so amazing,” she said, breathing in. “I love the smell of coconut.”Gabe stiffened. “Since when?” he said.“Since always. Don’t look so worried. I’m not going to proposition you right in the middle of the cafeteria.” She dropped her hand.“I’m not worried,” he protested.“Of course you’re not,” she replied, pulling the tray closer. “Thanks to whoever got my lunch, by the way. How was basketball?”“Good,” Devin replied. “I think I might make the first team this year. Gabe’s going to help me with some one-on-one practice after school.”There was a beat of silence. “I bet he is,” Mina said in a low voice, and Gabe’s face turned red. He shifted in his chair.“Do you play any sports, Avi?” said Devin. His gaze shifted down my torso. “You look like you… do you?” He cleared his throat and rubbed the back of his neck. It was very cute. Not that I cared one way or the other, of course.I didn’t know how to answer. I don’t think fighting to the death is a recognized spectator sport in this school.“I used to do a bit of track and field. I’m not all that good, though.”“Tell us something about Avitus Sequani,” said Mina. “Ordinary, from Europe, isn’t really much to go on.”“What do you want to know?”“Are you being deliberately evasive?” she said, raising her eyebrows.“That’s what you want to know?” I said, deadpan, and Devin laughed. “I’m not that interesting,” I lied. “I moved here very recently, so I’m kind of clueless about the local area and the school and everything. I’ll be eighteen in October. I’m good at Math and History and terrible at anything IT-related.”“Favorite color?” said Mina.“Red.”“Parents?”“Yes. Two.” Avi’s parents were a slave and a Roman citizen who should have kept his ego under his tunic where it belonged.“Have you ever been in love?” Mina traced the top of her soda can with her fingers, round and round.“I’m not sure that’s any of your business, considering we only just met.”“So that’s a yes. Are you in a relationship now?”“Still none of your business.” I folded my arms. Gods, she’s persistent. Who the hell does she think she is?She gave me a thoughtful look, completely unintimidated by my irritation. A couple of girls came up to the table, asking Mina about a party she was apparently planning for her birthday in a couple of weeks’ time. It was like watching senators pay court to the Roman emperor. On a much smaller scale, of course, but the basic principle was the same.It helped me to calm down. I suppressed a smile. Imagine Lucius Verus as a high school teenager reduced to planning parties and debating wardrobe and makeup choices.One of the girls turned to me. “Are you going?”As I can’t leave the school grounds, it’s unlikely.“I haven’t been invited,” I said.“You can go with me,” said Devin. No one said anything. “Can’t he?” Mina nodded. “If he’s that important to you,” she said. The girls giggled and one of them whispered something to Mina before they left.“I’ll have to check,” I said to Devin. “Thanks, though.”Gabe watched us exchange smiles and his face darkened. He gave the empty table in front of me a pointed look. “Aren’t you going to eat anything?”I scanned the room, pretending to consider the food on offer. “I guess I’ll eat later. First day nerves, you know…”“Nerves? You? Yeah, right.” He picked up his fork and moved the pasta on his tray back and forth.“Oh, Gabe, grow up,” said Mina.He threw down the fork. “So now you’re a fully paid-up member of the freak fan club too?”“For God’s sake,” said Devin, pushing his chair back. “Let it go, will you?”“Eat something,” said Gabe. “Prove that you’re human.”Mina laughed. “Seriously? Gabe, I think you might be taking this a little far.”“You didn’t see what he did.”“No one saw it because he didn’t do anything!” said Devin, his voice rising. “I don’t know what your problem is, but you need to get over it. So he’s not hungry. No big deal.”“If it’s no big deal, then why doesn’t he just eat something?” said Gabe stubbornly.I reached forward and grabbed a handful of chips from Gabe’s tray. After I stuffed them in my mouth, I held up my hand as if to hide my chewing. The background noise was enough to cover my “Dispareo,” and the chips melted away.“Satisfied?” I asked him.He didn’t answer. “Sure you don’t want to see if he sparkles in the sunlight? Or maybe check his pockets for the key to an alien spaceship?” said Mina.“Shut up,” Gabe muttered.Mina changed the subject, and I sighed with relief. She talked about Drama class and Miss Randall’s unexpected choice of play. Devin congratulated her on her casting. “It must not be denied, but I am a plain-dealing villain,” she said, delivering one of Don John’s lines with a wicked grin. “Oh, and Cavi is now a thing. I’ve decided.”We all stared at her. My relief vanished. “Cass and Avi,” she added, coating one of her fries in mayonnaise and eating it slowly. “Yum.”“They’re not… That’s not funny,” said Devin.“It’s not supposed to be. They’re getting the lead parts. The chance of life imitating art at some point has got to be high, don’t you think?”“I don’t know why I’m friends with you. You’re such a bitch lately,” said Devin.“I know. You love me, really.” She ate another fry.“Cass will go postal when she finds out,” said Gabe.“No, she won’t. She’s on a final warning, and she wants this part.”“Why would you do that?” I asked. My anger was rising. I couldn’t help it.“If I don’t, someone else will. The angry loner and the gorgeous, enigmatic new guy… practicing their lines together… the gossip’s inevitable.”“Lots of things are inevitable. But who are you to decide when they happen?”“Oh, I’m sorry, Avi.” She gave me an innocent smile. “I thought you wanted me to help you get along better with Gabe. He’ll be happy if you and Cass are an item, won’t you Gabe? Rather you and Cass than you and D—”“Stop! Just stop!” Devin half rose out of his chair and students at the surrounding tables turned to look at us.After a few more seconds, Devin grabbed his backpack and all but ran out of the cafeteria. Gabe looked like someone had punched him in the stomach. Mina took a slow, careful sip from her soda can. I would have believed her unconcerned by Devin’s reaction, if the can hadn’t wobbled as she set it back down on the table.What is going on?

New Book, New Series, Sixth Chapter

This weekend's blog post is Chapter Six! Luca has a temporary crisis of confidence before trying to figure out what's really going on between Devin, Gabe, and Mina. You can catch up on any of the previous chapters via the New Series label at the top of this post. Thank you very much for reading ☺.

6 A Snapping Point
By the time we returned to perform in front of the rest of the class I was a wreck. I could only hope the chaos inside my head didn’t show on my face. I delivered my lines, holding on to Benedick’s self-righteous indignation and sarcasm just long enough for us to earn a round of applause.“I didn’t want to make a casting decision so early in the semester, but you two have incredible chemistry,” said Miss Randall. “I’m going to give you a couple more scenes to try, and if you can perform them equally well, the parts are yours.”After we sat down, I attempted to shield myself. I turned my face into my shoulder, whispering, “Contego,” and gradually, my awareness of her energy and the history between us retreated behind the spell. When Mina stood up to perform I had calmed down enough to pay attention. She was good, presenting herself as the villain, Don John, with a sinister intensity that was very compelling. Miss Randall offered her the part there and then.When the bell rang for lunch, I didn’t get up straight away. The prospect of reading lines with Cass, playing out the story of two proud characters who started as enemies and ended up as lovers, was like some hideous nightmare where our shared past would replay over and over. How could I deal with that while I was trying to— My phone chimed with a text. Slowly, I removed it from my pocket, knowing what I would find when I turned it over.“Hello, Luca. How do you like my third restriction? Yes, I chose the play. Yes, I paired you together. Let’s see if your oh-so-serene Light Mage objectivity can withstand an emotional onslaught of this magnitude. Can’t wait to find out :)”This message didn’t make me angry. Still reeling from what had just happened, all I felt was despair. I wondered if I should just give up. I only had the smallest chance of success anyway. No matter what I did, he would never stop presenting me with obstacles. For a few seconds I wallowed in self-pity.What’s the matter with me? I never give up. I’m not going to start now. Besides, I wanted more time with Cass and now I have it. This is a good thing.A shadow fell over the screen. “Avi. We should swap details.”It was Cass. She was holding her phone and looking down at mine expectantly.“You want my number?”“No. I want this part. Being able to contact you is unfortunately a necessity if that is to happen.” “I… er… it’s new. The phone. I haven’t… I’m not set up yet.”“I suppose you’ll have to text me, then.” She reeled off a series of numbers and I rather laboriously typed them in. I hesitated before deciding on, “Hey,” and pressing Send.“Thanks,” she said, before putting her phone away. “I’ll send you an invitation later. Miss Randall will set up a messaging group for the play as well, just so you know.” She walked off, not saying another word to me or anyone else. We’d still only made eye contact that one time.With her departure I felt better. I promised myself I would devise a different coping strategy before we met up again. A couple of students spoke to me on their way out, praising my performance. It was getting easier each time: the introductions, the casual banter. Avitus Sequani was becoming more like a real person.“Well, well, well.” Mina, the last to leave, took a seat next to me. I noticed that her caramel skin had a dusting of freckles, visible even through her makeup under the harsh overhead light. “She doesn’t date, y’know. So don’t get your hopes up.”“You were great,” I said, ignoring her insinuation.“Thanks.” She looked me up and down. “You’re not turning out like I expected.”I looked her up and down too. “You never met me before Friday. How would you know what to expect?”“I always prejudge. I can’t help it.”“Oh, yeah? It’s entirely beyond your control?”She smiled. “Maybe not. I guess it’s a habit.”“I suppose I prejudged you too, a little,” I admitted. “Anyone with half a brain can see you have a… position at this school.”“Yeah. I’ve earned it, too. And I’ll do whatever it takes to keep it. It’s all I…” She stopped talking and frowned. “I don’t know why I said that.”Because no one can hide their true nature from a guardian. I stood up. “Why don’t we get some lunch and you can tell me how to get along better with Gabe,” I suggested.Mina looked up at me. “Why would I do that?”“Because it would make things easier for Devin. Your friend.”She sighed. “Even if I wanted to help you… you have no idea how complicated things are right now.”“Afraid you’ll fail?”At that, Mina laughed. “You’ve got some nerve for a new guy.”“Maybe I’m just stupid. You should probably take pity on me.”She shook her head. “More like too smart for your own good.” When we arrived at the cafeteria I hardly recognized it from the Friday before. It was like walking into a living wall of noise and smells that overloaded my senses. Since I’d crossed over, everything was in high definition. I was grateful I didn’t need to eat. Appetizing, it wasn’t.Devin and Gabe were sitting together, not talking. There was an extra tray alongside Gabe, and Mina sat down in front of it. She told the person next to Devin to get out of the way, and I took their chair with a muttered apology.“Hey, Avi,” said Devin. “How’s it going?”I returned his smile, glad to see he was more relaxed than he’d been earlier.Mina leaned into Gabe. His blond hair was wet at the back and she curled a strand around her finger. “Your shampoo is so amazing,” she said, breathing in. “I love the smell of coconut.”Gabe stiffened. “Since when?” he said.“Since always. Don’t look so worried. I’m not going to proposition you right in the middle of the cafeteria.” She dropped her hand.“I’m not worried,” he protested.“Of course you’re not,” she replied, pulling the tray closer. “Thanks to whoever got my lunch, by the way. How was basketball?”“Good,” Devin replied. “I think I might make the first team this year. Gabe’s going to help me with some one-on-one practice after school.”There was a beat of silence. “I bet he is,” Mina said in a low voice, and Gabe’s face turned red. He shifted in his chair.“Do you play any sports, Avi?” said Devin. His gaze shifted down my torso. “You look like you… do you?” He cleared his throat and rubbed the back of his neck. It was very cute. Not that I cared one way or the other, of course.I didn’t know how to answer. I don’t think fighting to the death is a recognized spectator sport in this school.“I used to do a bit of track and field. I’m not all that good, though.”“Tell us something about Avitus Sequani,” said Mina. “Ordinary, from Europe, isn’t really much to go on.”“What do you want to know?”“Are you being deliberately evasive?” she said, raising her eyebrows.“That’s what you want to know?” I said, deadpan, and Devin laughed. “I’m not that interesting,” I lied. “I moved here very recently, so I’m kind of clueless about the local area and the school and everything. I’ll be eighteen in October. I’m good at Math and History and terrible at anything IT-related.”“Favorite color?” said Mina.“Red.”“Parents?”“Yes. Two.” Avi’s parents were a slave and a Roman citizen who should have kept his ego under his tunic where it belonged.“Have you ever been in love?” Mina traced the top of her soda can with her fingers, round and round.“I’m not sure that’s any of your business, considering we only just met.”“So that’s a yes. Are you in a relationship now?”“Still none of your business.” I folded my arms. Gods, she’s persistent. Who the hell does she think she is?She gave me a thoughtful look, completely unintimidated by my irritation. A couple of girls came up to the table, asking Mina about a party she was apparently planning for her birthday in a couple of weeks’ time. It was like watching senators pay court to the Roman emperor. On a much smaller scale, of course, but the basic principle was the same.It helped me to calm down. I suppressed a smile. Imagine Lucius Verus as a high school teenager reduced to planning parties and debating wardrobe and makeup choices.One of the girls turned to me. “Are you going?”As I can’t leave the school grounds, it’s unlikely.“I haven’t been invited,” I said.“You can go with me,” said Devin. No one said anything. “Can’t he?” Mina nodded. “If he’s that important to you,” she said. The girls giggled and one of them whispered something to Mina before they left.“I’ll have to check,” I said to Devin. “Thanks, though.”Gabe watched us exchange smiles and his face darkened. He gave the empty table in front of me a pointed look. “Aren’t you going to eat anything?”I scanned the room, pretending to consider the food on offer. “I guess I’ll eat later. First day nerves, you know…”“Nerves? You? Yeah, right.” He picked up his fork and moved the pasta on his tray back and forth.“Oh, Gabe, grow up,” said Mina.He threw down the fork. “So now you’re a fully paid-up member of the freak fan club too?”“For God’s sake,” said Devin, pushing his chair back. “Let it go, will you?”“Eat something,” said Gabe. “Prove that you’re human.”Mina laughed. “Seriously? Gabe, I think you might be taking this a little far.”“You didn’t see what he did.”“No one saw it because he didn’t do anything!” said Devin, his voice rising. “I don’t know what your problem is, but you need to get over it. So he’s not hungry. No big deal.”“If it’s no big deal, then why doesn’t he just eat something?” said Gabe stubbornly.I reached forward and grabbed a handful of chips from Gabe’s tray. After I stuffed them in my mouth, I held up my hand as if to hide my chewing. The background noise was enough to cover my “Dispareo,” and the chips melted away.“Satisfied?” I asked him.He didn’t answer. “Sure you don’t want to see if he sparkles in the sunlight? Or maybe check his pockets for the key to an alien spaceship?” said Mina.“Shut up,” Gabe muttered.Mina changed the subject, and I sighed with relief. She talked about Drama class and Miss Randall’s unexpected choice of play. Devin congratulated her on her casting. “It must not be denied, but I am a plain-dealing villain,” she said, delivering one of Don John’s lines with a wicked grin. “Oh, and Cavi is now a thing. I’ve decided.”We all stared at her. My relief vanished. “Cass and Avi,” she added, coating one of her fries in mayonnaise and eating it slowly. “Yum.”“They’re not… That’s not funny,” said Devin.“It’s not supposed to be. They’re getting the lead parts. The chance of life imitating art at some point has got to be high, don’t you think?”“I don’t know why I’m friends with you. You’re such a bitch lately,” said Devin.“I know. You love me, really.” She ate another fry.“Cass will go postal when she finds out,” said Gabe.“No, she won’t. She’s on a final warning, and she wants this part.”“Why would you do that?” I asked. My anger was rising. I couldn’t help it.“If I don’t, someone else will. The angry loner and the gorgeous, enigmatic new guy… practicing their lines together… the gossip’s inevitable.”“Lots of things are inevitable. But who are you to decide when they happen?”“Oh, I’m sorry, Avi.” She gave me an innocent smile. “I thought you wanted me to help you get along better with Gabe. He’ll be happy if you and Cass are an item, won’t you Gabe? Rather you and Cass than you and D—”“Stop! Just stop!” Devin half rose out of his chair and students at the surrounding tables turned to look at us.After a few more seconds, Devin grabbed his backpack and all but ran out of the cafeteria. Gabe looked like someone had punched him in the stomach. Mina took a slow, careful sip from her soda can. I would have believed her unconcerned by Devin’s reaction, if the can hadn’t wobbled as she set it back down on the table.What is going on?