Page 113 of Glutton for Punishment

“Soon,” he promises again, reading the concern on my face.

He steps back, and the warmth of him leaves. I stay longer than necessary as the aircraft lifts into the sky, watching it until it’s only a speck. The pressure of the bond sets in, but not uncomfortably. More like, it’s just recognizing its other half’s distance.

I turn and follow the small trickle of students making their way toward the academy.

Apparently, not many people get dropped off by helicopter…

My boots crunch over the stone path winding up the hill, and when SinVail Academy rises into view beyond the trees, my breath catches in my throat.

Universe. I missed this sight.

Bright stone gleams beneath the afternoon sun, every tower and sweeping arch wrapped in crawling ivy so green it almost glows. Flowering vines spill from massive open windows and balconies high above. A sense of peace settles over me.

Because despite all the terrible things that happened here last year, this place has also given me the best moments of my life. My friends. My first taste of freedom from Wrath life.

Where I learned to value who I am, despite my lack of sin power.

A stupid, helpless grin tugs at my mouth.

And naturally, that feeling is cut off at the sound of a familiar voice.

“Well, if it isn’t my favorite fishing buddy.”

The universe hates me…

I groan before even turning. “Please tell me you’re talking to literally anyone else.”

Ryker Blaise falls into step beside me like none of the past year has happened. Golden hair tousled, moss green eyes, cocky grin locked and loaded with dimples to boot.

He knows he’s handsome. And he uses it like a weapon.

“That’s no way to greet the man who saved your life.”

I shoot him a flat look. “You mean saved me from your psychopath of a father? Who you had intended to gift me too last year?”

He at least looks guilty for a second before smoothly replying, “Yep, that heroic deed. I guess a kiss would suffice as a reward?”

I gag dramatically.

“Can you please go be anywhere else? You’re ruining this moment for me.”

I keep walking faster, but he just keeps pace with me.

“Ryker.” I growl. “Seriously, go away.”

Ryker rolls his eyes. “Chill. I’m just checking on you since the last time I saw you was your jailbreak.”

“Clearly, I’m alive and fine.”

I glance at him and notice shadows under his eyes. His usual easy swagger sits crooked, despite trying to force an air of superiority.

“What happened after we escaped?” I ask, figuring I might as well get some intel. “With your father?”

The humor vanishes from his face. He exhales sharply through his nose, gaze cutting ahead toward the academy. “Things have been complicated. My father disappeared the morning after you escaped.”

I frown. “Disappeared?”

“Vanished. I can’t say I’m surprised. Went underground before the Council could move against him.” His mouth twists. “Pretty cowardly, if you ask me.”