She has always made it completely obvious how much shelikesmy brother. I try not to let the grossness set in but... ew... it’s Samuel, after all.
Is he an attractive guy? Of course. With his icy-blonde locks perfectly combed over, his slacks, and a button-up, looking freshly pressed. But it is Samuel. My brother. I don’t want to know my best friend is getting hot and bothered over him like that.
“You’re late.” I roll my eyes.
Even though he graduated a year ago, he is still dropping me off and picking me up. Mr. Donovan told him to let the driver take over that duty when he gave Samuel the title of Heir to the Divine Legacy, but he tells him he would be the only one to do it.
Samuel is to be the next in line as the Divine’s Vessel. Which means he needs to learn everything about our father’s role and duties. This means he comes late most days to pick me up. I am not allowed to accept rides from anyone or even walk home. I have to wait here for him. I am starting to grow frustrated with the box my family is telling me to mold into.
“Our meeting ran longer than it was supposed to,” he says casually.
“Again.” I grunt.
“I think that’s my cue to go. See you tomorrow, Eden.” Lianne tosses her backpack on her shoulder and practically drools out, “Bye,Samuel.”
Samuel doesn’t reply, and she scurries off.
My eyes lock back on Luke, and when his eyes lock with mine, I can’t help the heat pooling between my legs. My cheeks feel like they’re on fire when he shoots me a smile and a wink. A nervous smirk forms on my face.
Is he really giving me that look?
My thoughts are interrupted when Samuel yanks my arm and drags me down the bleacher steps in such a hurry my legs can’t keep up.
Thank the Divine Samuel’s hold is strong enough, or I might have fallen on my face. But as much as I am glad, I’m not falling down, and the ache grows more painful as he pulls me with his long strides.
“Ow! Samuel! My arm!” I whimper as he speed-walks to his car.
He throws me in the passenger seat and slams the car door.
Confusion floods me. Samuel has never acted this way toward me. Other people? Yes. But not me.
I replay the last few minutes in my head, not able to find a moment where I would’ve pissed him off. Unless...
Shame hits me in the face.
Could he tell how I feel as I looked at Luke?
No. No. No.
I am not to have those thoughts or feelings.
Especially not in front of my big brother, the next Chosen Vessel. Is he going to tell on me? Would I be in trouble? How could he see? How does he know?
My mind is racing.
Samuel slams his door after he takes the driver’s seat next to me. I wait for him to start the car and take me straight to Father. Instead, he grabs me by my chin with a force that makes me whimper. “You looking at guys now?” He pulls me closer, my eyes slamming shut as he hisses. “Think again. As a lady of the Divine, it’s wrong of you to have those thoughts about anyone other than who They pick for you.” I keep my eyes closed. I don’t want to see him like this. “Look at me, Eden.”
I open my eyes, his blue hues burrowing through my own.
“He will never be the one who is picked for you. Got it? Now, don’t be a whore, and stop squeezing your thighs together like a bitch in heat from just a smile from a guy likethat.”
My jaw drops at his words. The burning in my throat grows while tears spill down my cheeks.
“I won’t tell Mom or Dad, but you need to stop that shit right now.” He sighs, rubbing his hand down his face. “Do you understand?”
I nod rapidly.
“Good. You have to know I’m the only one here for you, I’m—” He shuts his mouth and grips the steering wheel so hard his knuckles turn white. “Let’s just go home, okay?” He starts the car and makes his way out of the parking lot.
