The Heir

Chapter 17

The plan has been going flawlessly. Rob and Wyatt, the two jackasses who intend to jump my brother, are hooked. It took such little time and effort that it's almost pathetic.

Noah rambles on and on about the homecoming dance in a few days. Akio, as always, is glued to his side eagerly nodding along. I walk a few paces behind them in the halls.

I smile and wave at other students as we move about. Underclassmen thanking me for fixing the leaky faucet in the girls room. Athletes desperate for a big turn out; knowing that if I attend nearly the whole school will follow suit.

My eyes lock with Wyatt. He's leaning against his locker, surrounded by his friends. I let my eyes travel his form before looking at him again. My lips tilt up slightly and he grins in response. It probably came off as a flirtatious smile but honestly, it's hard not to laugh at him.

"Here we are, princess," Noah stops at the locker beside mine.

"Aren't you going to go to your lockers?" I ask them as I put in the combination in my locker.

"Nah," Noah waves his hand flippantly.

"I need to grab my calculator for tonight's homework," Akio begins to walk away. "I'll be right back."

"Wait," Noah whines, rushing after him.

I shake my head as they disappear into the masses. When I open my locker, a little white envelope drops to the floor. My brows furrow and I quickly pick it up. My name is scrawled on the front; scratchy handwriting. Hesitantly, I tear it open and pull out the letter inside.

Lovely Elle,

I can't get you out of my head. Your smile and laugh and hair stay stuck in my mind all day. What I would give to sneak into your dorm late at night. Maybe I'll take the risk. You are a beautiful girl with a beautiful heart and I'm in love. One day we'll be together, I promise you that.

Keep smiling, beautiful Elle.

I frown at the unsigned note. I thought Duke gave up on the stupid love letters years ago. When I gave him a black eye that lasted for a week he promised he'd stop. Maybe he needs another reminder.

I grab the books I need and slam my locker shut. I crumple the letter in my hand before tossing it into the nearest garbage can. I'm not going to say anything about it, at least not right now. I still need Duke's help on Friday and I haven't even spoken to him about it yet. He'll be more amicable the less hostile I am.

Speak of the devil, Duke confidently strides down the hallway with his teammates. They're probably the loudest group to be around; always shouting and laughing. Duke's gaze meets mine and I flash a seductive smile. I meet his stride, walking beside him towards the exit.

"How's it going, princess?" Duke smirks.

"Same old," I say, waving my hand vaguely. I glance behind us at his teammates, Rob being one of them. His brows are furrowed as he watches the interaction and I offer a wink before turning back around.

"I heard you've got a new admirer," Duke says teasingly.

"What else is new," I laugh lightly. He's probably referring to Will.

"Anyone who doesn't find you the hottest chick they've ever seen must be fucking mental," he shakes his head, draping his arm around my shoulders.

"Thanks, I guess," I roll my eyes.

"What did I do to deserve your company?" he questions as he holds open the door for me.

"Actually," I step into the cold air, "I have a favor to ask."