Page 105 of Eternal Ruin

She looked up from the yellow mixture that smelled of phosphorus. No sign of Taj still.

Professor Andreyas had given them firm instructions. They would not conduct their assignment at the annual Acti Gala, which truly disappointed June. It would have been nice to attend a decadent party or three before she turned twenty-one. At least she didn’t have to betray a close friend like in the first assignment. All June had to do was introduce herself to the dranaics in the chilling Southern Sost Buildings and return to the Philosophy Tower with a gifted item she would receive before midnight.

Luckily, Taj Zuri had offered himself as a candidate. But June worried he might be late.

Since June didn’t carry a watch, she always asked Warde for updates. He was in the Mot Zebeya Monastery, visible through the northeastern gates, seeking a moment of relief from the constant noise of Uxlay.

How long do I have left?

Thirty minutes.When Warde spoke into her mind, it was always gentle, comforting like a shade from a searing sun.

Where is he?

You should take my watch, Warde said.Both to keep time and pass this silly test.

Professor Andreyas banned you and Arin from this task. And I’d rather have a dirty sock than a watch.

A grumble echoed down their bond. According to Uxlay’s laws, Samson, Arin, and Warde would have to spend at least two years here before they could participate in companionship exchanges. For now, they had to remain loyal to Kidan, Slen, and Yusef.

He’s here—

“Sorry, sorry, I’m late.” The door banged open, nearly making June drop her beaker.

Taj hurried inside with no shirt, no boots, and no belt. June’s cheeks immediately inflamed. She had never seen a half-naked boy before.

“What…”

“I had other students that were interested.” Taj grinned, rubbing his head of locs.

June took off her lab coat and quickly crossed over to him. She jerked out her hand, looking to the fridge, then the ceiling.

“Put this on.”

Taj took it but he didn’t put it on. When June lifted her head, he gave her a gentle smile.

“Sweetheart, this isn’t going to fit me.”

Without her meaning them to, June’s eyes trailed the width of his broad shoulders. How could he just stand there so confidently? His bronze eyes didn’t lift from her face once, studying her with sparkling interest.

June shifted slightly, giving him her cheek. “Just drape it over one shoulder.”

“As you wish.”

She could hear the smile in his tone. Was he laughing at her? June straightened her shoulder. If anyone should be embarrassed, it should be him.

“You give out your clothes to anyone who asks?” June asked, a little confused.

“Normally.”

“Why?”

“It’s usually the last time most Dranacti students have fun. Before everything turns serious again. I like to be part of that fun.”

June was starting to figure him out. Last time they spoke, he told her he’d never killed anyone. But it was more than that. He seemed to not want anything to suffer around him. If June asked him to carry her home because her legs hurt, he probably would say yes.

A smile stretched across her mouth.

Taj’s eyes sparkled. “What’s that for?”