Page 6 of Colton

“I have no reason to lie,” she shrugs. “Although, I understand why you’d be skeptical. So, shoot. I have ten minutes before my next class. Make sure they’re worth my time.”

That might not sound like a threat, but the depth of her voice only tells me that I’d better not disappoint her. I’m not sure why, but seeing Artemis so laid back, leaning in the chair and staring at me reminds me of the books I’ve read — and she, somehow, seems like the final villain.

“Tell me about the founding families.”

“That’s not a question,” Artemis makes a tsk sound. “Don’t disappoint me now, pretty girl.”

“Then, why is the city so heavily guarded?”

“It’s been like that since it was founded,” she responds, and I’m shocked that she’s taking my question seriously. “In the beginning, when it was nothing but vast land, it had a lot of oil, and the produce seemed to flourish there. To keep others from stealing it, the founding families got together and made a pact. Whatever they may do to each other, the ultimate goal was to protect the land. Hence, they built those gigantic walls and gates to keep outsiders… well, out.”

A small frown etches onto my face. “What do you mean whatever they may do to each other? Are the five families not on good terms?”

“They weren’t back then,” she shrugs. “They are now. It’s the reason Saint Valley’s been able to last for as long as it has. The heads of each family were able to put their differences aside and come up with a plan to keep everything for themselves and their people.”

“What’s the plan?”

She smirks. “Not telling. It’s a family secret, so to speak.”

“Noted,” I nod, knowing that prying there won’t do me any good. “Then, why are the rumors circulating about the five families being criminals?”

“I mean, think about it,” she lifts an amused brow. “The five families go way back, some of our ancestors must’ve been criminals, no?”

My eyes narrow. “It doesn’t explain why the rumor is currently going around, or why your nickname is the Founding Daughter.”

The smile falls from her lips. “Excuse me? What is my nickname?”

“Well,” I stutter, eyes widening. I was certain she was aware of it and yet again, my big mouth might get me in trouble. “That’s what I’ve heard.”

Artemis cackles, but there’s no humor behind the sound. It’s menacing, and for a moment, my skin crawls when I look into her eyes — they’re empty, dull and dead. The glint that made them so special is now gone, replaced by something dark and twisted.

“How fun,” she drawls. “Looks like I haven’t been paying close enough attention to those around me. Thank you for telling me, Avalon.”

“You’re welcome.”

“Your ten minutes are up,” she says, pushing her chair back and standing up. She grabs her bag, flings it over her shoulder and makes her way towards me. She grabs my shoulder, and I wince in pain.

I’m both shocked at the strength someone of her height has, and in so much pain that I am shocked into silence. I’m sure it will leave a bruise. My eyes lift up, looking at her and all breath gets sucked out of my lungs.

The evil glint in her eyes is undeniable. She’s trying to make a statement, this is more than enough to make me to stop asking questions, or poking around. It’s as though her eyes have darkened a shade and the overwhelming, powerful presence that’s radiating off her is making me tremble.

“Don’t go snooping around, pretty girl,” her voice is low, her words a clear threat. “It would be a shame if we’d have to get rid of you. Understood?”

“Yes,” I breathe out, the words coming out as a pathetic whisper.

“Fantastic,” Artemis beams, removing her hand from my shoulder. “Then, I’ll see you in a few weeks when you’re done with your part of the assignment. Text me.”

The moment Artemis leaves the library, I slump into the chair. My entire body reacting to her threat. I’m shaking like a leaf, and it’s only now that I can take a breath. Fucking hell, what was that?

Her threat is engraved in my brain, and it’s more than enough for me to stop putting my nose where it doesn’t belong. I haven’t known her for long, but I’m not stupid enough to believe her words are empty — she could make me disappear if need be.

Given that she was willing to entertain my questions, it just proves Grace’s point — that place is wickedly evil, with a lot of secrets. Fortunately, I’m smart enough to shove the curiosity away, and keep my head attached to my shoulders.

Or, at least, that’s what I keep telling myself.

◆◆◆

My hands are trembling as I knock on the door of the Dean’s office. The rest of the hallway is almost too silent, and I’m already close to chickening out. If he’s not there, then it’s better for me. Given the intimidating personality Artemis has, I’m certain Colton will be even worse. Not only is he a man, but he is also from one of the founding families.