Destiny's Fire - By Trisha Wolfe Page 0,82

be blindfolded. And, we’d like you to summon your full power.”

The guard finished tying the blindfold, yanking my hair in the process. Ow. After my eyes were fully covered, I nodded my head once and calmed my breathing—centering myself.

I felt a little less confident, but I’d performed this routine many times. Though, I didn’t understand how being blindfolded would help or hinder me. Or what it would prove to them. I sucked in a breath and began, bringing my arms before me and sparking my Charge. The current crackled as I connected a stream between my palms. Cake.

I concentrated on arcing the current higher into the air. But not too high. I imagined how it looked—a simple stream of blue bending, vibrating on a low frequency. I moved into my next position and separated the stream. Bending at the knee, my arms shook as I pretended to use my full power, sending the currents higher into the air. I locked onto the feel of my power, maintaining the level Reese and I had practiced. Even though I couldn’t see, I could feel the level of power.

I finished each position easily. The blindfold actually helped keep my nerves in check. I couldn’t see the Council members, so I couldn’t watch them judge me. Only after I was done with my performance and the cloth was removed, did I feel my stomach flutter. They were taking notes, their eyes glancing up momentarily and then back at their notes. Even though their reaction to my performance gave me nothing to worry about, I kept waiting for them to signal the guards, chain me up, and haul me away. But when they were finished writing, they only said thank you.

I bowed my head, thanked them, and left the room. When I reached the hallway, I nearly collapsed. Reese and I had definitely over-prepared, but I was thankful and shook with relief as I entered Mr. Liam’s room. Reese’s gaze met mine, and his creased forehead relaxed, the anxiety leaving his features. Then he nodded. I could almost feel his worry washing away.

My gaze involuntarily sought the upper corner of the room. As much as I wanted to reassure Lana and Nick, I wanted to see Jace’s expression. His eyes were trained on the project before him. I shrugged off my disappointment and took my seat next to Reese.

He took my hand and rubbed his thumb over the top. “Congratulations. I believe a celebration is in order.” He winked.

“Damn straight.” I released a shaky breath. “Can I have a beer, like…now?”

He laughed and quickly kissed my hand before releasing it.

I glanced once more toward Jace’s corner. His eyes met mine, and as if he couldn’t prevent it, he smiled. But before I could return the gesture, he looked at Reese, his smile fading and his eyes turning cold.

After testing ended that week, Reese was taking me out to celebrate, but he wouldn’t tell me where. I desperately hoped we weren’t heading to Cogs. I sat sidesaddle, my mini-bustle skirt tucked underneath me as we hovered along the streets of downtown on his levibike. After seeing Jace’s almost acceptance of me earlier, I didn’t want to ruin it by dancing or being close with Reese in front of him. The dark look he gave Reese in class told me enough. Jace might be willing to warm to me, but he wasn’t ready to accept Reese.

Reese pulled up to the Rivers End Loft—the nicest hotel in Haven. My heart sped, beating wildly. Before I allowed myself to get excited, I considered that we might be here for dinner. The hotel had an amazing restaurant on the lower level, and Reese had probably made reservations.

He offered me his hand as I scooted off the seat, and when his eyes met mine, I couldn’t help but blush.

“Is this too…” Reese trailed off, his eyes dropping from mine. “I mean, is this all right?”

My face heated. He wanted to spend the night with me. “It’s perfect.”

He cupped the back of my neck, and his thumb caressed my cheek. “I’m so relieved you passed the test.” His eyes became serious. “I never want to fear losing you again.”

“You won’t.” I held his gaze, matching its intensity. “I want to be with you, Reese. Always.”

He beamed and wrapped his arms around me. Then he kissed me urgently. I pulled back. “Hey now, save that for the room,” I said teasingly.

A devilish grin spread across his lips. “Oh, let’s not waste time out