{IRIS}
"Don't tell me you're actually considering jumping to escape school. Go ahead if you want—but all you'll get is a few broken bones, maybe a cracked skull. You'll heal, of course . . . just in time to still attend school, but in agony."
"O-Of course not, Lord Val!" I stammered, feeling my face heat. No matter how much time I spent with him, I still struggled to meet his eyes for more than a few seconds.
Whether it was his intimidating presence or his dangerously handsome face, I couldn't tell. Maybe both.
"Good," he said simply. "You should get some rest. We leave at dawn."
I hesitated, watching as he turned slightly, preparing to leave. A sudden wave of panic gripped me. I didn't want him to disappear just yet.
"Uhm! Lord Val!" My voice came out urgent, needy even.
He paused, his gaze sliding back to me. "What is it?"
I clenched my fingers into my dress, embarrassed by how small my voice had become.
