Page 39 of Under the Influence

“Corinne Clark is off-limits,” I announce, hopping off the table, looking straight down at Carson’s gaping mouth. Jovie is looking at me in horror.

I’ve never claimed a girl before, called dibs or whatever. Since I was thirteen, I haven’t even had a girlfriend, just an abundance of what some would call fun. Jovie’s look is murderous as she stands toe to toe with me, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”

I smile, pulling my backpack up off the floor. “Solving the problem. “

Feeling a little too satisfied with myself, I exit the cafeteria. Legacy is my ocean. And there isn’t a soul in this school that would cross me.

So if Corinne thought she was making friends here at Legacy and gaining a reputation for herself, she’s mistaken. I’m the most dangerous predator in this place, and I just officially claimed her as mine. Guys won’t look her way, and all the girls will hate her for taking me off the market.

It’s a win-win.

CHAPTER

FIFTEEN

LAINEY

Have you ever had a plan backfire? Like in a major way?

Well, that is exactly what happened.

I went out with Drayton Lewis, intending to piss off Nash, because just the thought of someone from Legacy betraying him would set him off.

I didn’t expect to actually like him.

But I do.

I like him.

I listen to my Spanish teacher ramble on about something I don’t understand as I check my phone under my desk.

Drayton

So about last night.

Lainey

What about it?

Drayton

When can I see you again?

Ugh. I opened up too much with him. I gave him access to things I shouldn’t have and let him in. Not much but enough. Enough to scare me. Truthfully, I can’t stop thinking about him. How sweet he was, how he gently held my hand and kissed the top of my head on my doorstep. I want to see him again, and that is scary.

Lainey

I don’t know if that is a good idea.

Drayton

Funny, I can’t think of a better idea.

Lainey

I just don’t want to make things harder for you.

Drayton