Page 53 of In Between Darkness

Alex takes a step back and brushes River’s hand off his shoulder. I can see on Alex’s face that he knows he is no match for a third year, but he tries to play it off.

He laughs before saying, “No problem. I was just telling Asha here how pleased I am that she is going to be in Mr Herringford’s class with me.”

He raises his eyebrow in my direction, and I watch him in silence. I hadn’t thought about that. Now that I’m a ‘light worker’, I’m going to be in a class with Alex.

“Good mate, because I know it didn’t work out so well the last time you caused trouble with Asha,” River says, smirking at him, and Nala and Charlie break out in giggles.

Alex huffs and walks past River, bumping his shoulder as he exits.

“She’s fooled you the most, ‘mate’,” he says as their shoulders touch briefly.

River stands his ground and waits for Alex to disappear.

Nala places her hand on top of mine in a comforting way and looks at me sympathetically.

“Don’t listen to him. He’s just trying to heal the ego you bruised.”

I place my hand on top of hers and smile.

River walks around the table end and plonks himself down next to me. I remove my hand from Nala’s and turn to face River.

“Thanks,” I smile at him and place my hand on his thigh.

“He bothers you again, you let me know.”

I nod my head in response to him.

“Not that you need my help, really. You put him in the healing quarters twice already this term,” he laughs.

“I know. I don’t know why he hasn’t learnt his lesson,” I agree, matching his energy.

“Seriously though, he’s obviously got it in for you. He’s had his Gifts longer than you; I don’t want him catching you on an off day and hurting you.”

He looks rather sweet when he’s concerned. I move myself closer to him and place a hand on his cheek briefly.

“I’ll be alright. I can handle myself.” My gaze meets his, and I shrug off his concern.

A small smirk forms on his lips, and his hand traces over mine. He reaches out and takes a swig from my glass of water on the table in front of me.

“I hope you don’t mind,” he says, gesturing at the water.

I nod my head, telling him that it’s okay. I mean, we have already kissed, which means we’ve gonewaypast exchanging DNA. Sharing a glass of water seems insignificant. I blush at the thought of our kiss, and he continues, “I know you can, but I have someone who can help you practice your powers. Remember Haley from the party?”

I remember her, and it’s such a nice gesture, but I can’t be drawing attention to myself like that. What if she realises my light power is not the same as hers?

“Yeah, of course, super pretty blonde,” I say, not wanting to shut him down straight away.

“She’s one of the best light workers in our year. I’m sure she’ll be happy to help you harness your Gifts.”

He smiles. Why must he be so damn helpful?

“She keeps asking when we can all hang out again.” His eyes look over mine and bounce from left to right, waiting for my reply.

I don’t want him to think I’m ungrateful, so I create the best lie that I can. “That’s so nice of you, but it’s really not necessary. I don’t want to be a burden.” I pause for a second. “But tell her we can definitely hang out soon!”

He studies my face hard and furrows his dark brows. I feel his hand cradle mine.

“Don’t be silly, Asha. I’m sure she won’t mind.” His voice drops a register, and he speaks with understanding. “How about I just drop it into conversation? She never does anything she doesn’t want to. If she wants to help, I’m sure she’ll let you know.”