AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Every damn second.” His eyes couldn’t be more radiant as he smiles genuinely.
We share a look as smiles blossom on our lips.
“Thanks for coming to comfort me, Dad.” I mean it. “I feel better now.”
“Good,” he whispers and rises up.
Uncrossing my legs, I stand and enjoy the embrace Dad gives me.
“There’ll be many challenges ahead at N.M.U., and it’s a place that is merciless to the weak. Don’t let anyone take advantage of your dismissive nature. If they make you feel like you’re a walking weakness, prove to them that you’re the ruler of their lives when on the battlefield,” he empowers. “And always remember… whoever shares the same emblem as you can always be trusted.”
“And how about those who don’t?” I wonder.
“Alliances are safe,” he assures me. “Everyone else? Never turn your back completely when around them.”
“Or else you’ll be stabbed,” I finish, remembering his teaching when we were young. “Got it, Dad.”
“Then off to the library you go,” he assures me, then gives me one more hug. “Please, Ophelia. Don’t perish within those walls.”
“I’ll do my best,” I vow and quietly add, “I won’t promise, though, because I hate breaking them.”
“Ophelia,” he grumbles, which makes me giggle.
“Alright, alright. Promise. Cross my heart. Whatever that saying is.”
He shakes his head.
“I pray you find someone who can handle your personality.”
“My roommate loves me,” I declare with a wink. “Lysander.”
“A Lysander. Wow.” Dad whistles. “Gilded Benders are lethal.”
“Glided what now?” I ask and watch as he smirks.
“You’ll find out.” He gives me a wink. “Away you go. My senses are telling me Headmaster Atlas is nearby.”
Don’t want to get caught by her, especially in the ladies’ bathroom.
“Away I go,” I declare and skip toward the door. I know the moment I walk through it, the illusion will be gone, and I’ll be back in my spot in the washroom.
Holding the doorknob, I look back to have one more admiring moment of Dad as he stands in wait for my departure. I know this may be the last time I see him for a long time.
Unless I perish. Then this would be the very last time.
“I love you, Dad.” The words of affection haven’t been said for a very long time. His eyes widen in shock before they begin to water.
Time to go.
Turning away, I take a breath and close my eyes.
“Tell Mom I’m sorry for making her life miserable… and maybe one day, I can make things right.”
Opening the door, I step into the dark oasis before Dad can say another word. The moment the door closes behind me, I open my eyes.
I’m back in N.M.U. and ready to survive this university by any means necessary.
10
