Page 106 of Ruthless Court

Kane faces her.

We stop near Lila’s car, far enough away to pretend we aren’t listening.

Not far enough to miss anything.

“You’ll sleep with me,” Krista says, “but you won’t post one picture.”

Kane drags a hand over the back of his neck.

“Why does it need to be posted?”

“Because people already think I’m some girl you call after midnight.”

“You come over after midnight.”

“That isn’t the point.”

“What is?”

Krista laughs once, sharp and humorless.

“You know exactly what it is.”

“No. I don’t.”

“You’ll let me sit on your lap in public, but the second a phone comes out, you move.”

“I don’t want my private life online.”

“Your private life?” She gestures toward the restaurant. “Half the school has seen us together.”

“Then why do you need proof?”

“Maybe I don’t like feeling hidden.”

“You aren’t hidden.”

“I’m not claimed either.”

The word lands hard enough that even Noor stops smiling.

Kane’s face changes.

“Claimed?”

“You know what I mean.”

“I know what it sounds like.”

Krista steps closer.

“Not every woman who wants you is trying to steal your imaginary contract.”

“No. Some want the followers before the contract exists.”

Her lips part.

Kane realizes what he said a second too late.