Page 11 of I Don't Need Your Protection

“Yes.”

“Can’t you do something on your phone or watch TV or…?”

“No.”

I puff out my cheeks. “Awesome,” I grumble before lowering myself to my knees and taking out the last few items frommy suitcase.

He doesn’t say a word and neither do I. It takes me about an hour to get fully settled in, then I make my way to the dining hall. I guess I’m a little early because there aren’t many students here, just a few seated at the tables. I don’t see Carly, so she’ll probably come later.

I know Caleb is somewhere near me, but I can’t find him. How in the world does he manage to keep himself hidden? He’s like a ninja.

I walk to the long tables lined against the wall that host different varieties of food and drinks. It’s a bit too much, so I just pile a few things on my plate and find a seat at the corner of the dining hall.

As I eat, I look around. The few kids that are here are eating in groups. Some look at me, others pretend I don’t exist. I wish Carly were here. It’d be nice to talk to someone.

At the corner of my eye, I spot a figure at one of the tables. Caleb sits there, his body hunched over the table like he’s too big for it. He has a tray with food before him, but keeps his eyes on me as he eats. The way he gazes at me, one could think I’m the prettiest thing he’s ever seen. Is it really that necessary for him to watch me like a hawk? I’mfine. No one will harm me here.

Smiling, I give him a small wave, just to loosen him up a little. The guy is way too serious and high-strung. His lips twitch slightly. I hold back a giggle.

Once I’m done, I throw my tray into the discard pile, then exit the dining hall. Some kids pass me and give me looks, but for the most part no one seems interested in me.

I notice a group of girls and some guys gathered around another girl. Maybe she’s one of the witches Carly was telling me about. Or maybe she’s just a popular girl. Either way, I just want to go up to my room, lie in my bed, and think about Mom and Dad.

Someone slams into me, causing me to fall on my butt. Glancing up, I find a guy standing there. He has dark blond hair and bright gray eyes and a killer smile. He’s one of the most good-looking guys I’ve ever seen in my life.

“Sorry!” He holds out a hand. “Are you all right?”

Caleb comes out of nowhere and is ready to pounce on the guy, but he must realize this is a harmless student and steps away, disappearing into the shadows.

“That was completely my fault,” the guy says. “Can I help you up?”

“Sure, thanks.” I place my hand in his and let him yank me to my feet.

He smiles. “I’m Warner.”

“Addie.”

“You’re new, right?”

I laugh lamely. “How can you tell?”

He holds his smile. “I’d never forget that face.” He winks. “So, how are you liking Harrington so far?”

I shrug. “It’s big.”

He chuckles. “That, it is. Are you headed to dinner?”

“I just ate.”

“Too bad. I’ll see you around, Addie.”

“Yeah, see you.”

He nods with a smile before turning around and heading into the dining hall. I watch him go, my heart lifting a bit.

“You should be careful whom you associate with,” a voice says on my right.

I turn to face Caleb. “He’s a student just like I am.”