Page 114 of Whispers of Wisteria

“Yes,” Zane replied.

“He’s fine with this?” That was surprising.

“He doesn’t disagree with the need,” Zane said, not as strongly as before.

So, Brayden was fighting it.

He picked up his bag. “He sees what Dustin sees.”

Did I miss something? “What’s that?”

“That she’s alone.” Zane’s response was almost accusing.

“Then you’re both blind,” I scoffed. “If we’re not with her, then one of the Officers are.”

Zane flung his bag over his shoulder and looked at me like I was an idiot. “Yet she still gets hurt.”

My skin flushed. I couldn’t deny it—not after what just happened. “Why would he think that anyway?” I snapped. “It’s not like he’s met her.”

Zane looked at me blankly, and I knew.

“What, when?” Why wouldn’t she tell us?

“He says she’s endearing,” he replied smugly.

Oh no. For him to actually say something remotely nice… We were screwed.

“Bianca is not ready for Dubois politics,” I warned. “She’s healing.”

“I know.” Something flashed in his eyes. He lowered his voice. “I’ve been told.”

Shit. That was even worse.

“You know I need to tell Damen,” I said.

Zane shrugged, his gaze moving back to her. “Do it. It’s not going to change anything.”

Dammit.

“So, what—” I began. How much had the fae mobilized already that we didn’t know? “Do you follow her around everywhere then?”

“Only when she’s on campus,” he replied lightly. “For now.”

I wanted to scream. “What if I tell her?”

“Then she’ll be upset,” Zane said sternly. “And I’ll still be here. I don’t think you want that.”

I clenched my jaw. I didn’t know what scared me more: that Dustin had seen her, or that Zane had been watching this whole time… and this was him beingpolite.

17

Bianca POV

Miles metme at the car and took me back to Damen’s house. Only Julian and Finn were there when we arrived. At first, they barely glanced up from their books.

“Hello, darling.” Julian pointed a finger in the air while he used his other hand to trace a line in his book. “Just give me one moment, and I’ll…” His words trailed off as his quick look turned into a lingering stare.

I still held an ice pack to my cheek. Julian’s attention was riveted to the spot.