Kingsley Academy

Chapter 29

A week had passed since that night in my dorm. Things between Kade and me had settled down, the tension from before slowly fading as he worked to keep his promise. I could see him trying—really trying—and that meant more to me than he probably realized.

Today was the last day before our first break of the year, and the energy around the school was buzzing. Everyone was ready to escape for a while, excited about their plans. I, too, was looking forward to heading up to my dad's cabin at Big Bear Lake with my friends—and Kade. The thought of him coming along this year felt... different. But in a good way.

We walked through the halls together, side by side, the weight of everything that had happened lingering in the background but not hanging over us like it used to. Kade had been calmer, more in control, and I appreciated that. It felt like he was keeping his promise.

"So, you're still sure about Big Bear?" I asked, glancing at him with a small smile. "Ready for a weekend of chaos with my friends?"

Kade smirked, his usual cocky confidence showing through. "I'm ready. Besides, if I can survive Kingsley, I think I can handle a few of your friends."

I rolled my eyes, but the smile on my face stayed. "I warned you."

"Hey," he said, his voice lowering just a little as we stopped by my locker. "It'll be fun. Plus, I get you all to myself for a few days. No Cole, no Noah, just us."

I shook my head, pretending to be annoyed, but secretly, I was excited too. Spending the break with Kade felt like the next step—something that would either make us stronger or, well, who knew? But I was willing to find out.

"Just don't ruin my break by getting all jealous and crazy," I teased, nudging him lightly.

Kade grinned, leaning in a little closer. "No promises."

I rolled my eyes again, but deep down, I was happy. Things were good—for now.

Kade leaned in, his lips brushing mine softly at first, then deepening the kiss as his hand rested on my waist. I smiled against his lips, feeling the familiar warmth spread through me. But before I could get too caught up in the moment, something popped into my head.

"Hold on," I mumbled, my lips still barely touching his.

He pulled back slightly, a questioning look on his face, but I turned away, my eyes scanning the hall. "Olivia!" I called out, spotting one of the blonde girls from my trio. She turned around quickly, her expression eager. "Go get me an iced Americano."

Olivia nodded immediately, not asking any questions, and hurried off to do what I'd asked. As soon as she disappeared, I turned back to Kade, a mischievous grin on my face.

He chuckled, shaking his head. "Bossy, aren't you?" he teased, pulling me back toward him, his hands finding their way to my waist again. "You really can't take a break from being in charge for even a second, can you?"

I smirked, leaning in as our lips met once more. "Nope," I whispered against his mouth before letting the kiss deepen again, enjoying the way his hands held me close.

---

Kade was sprawled out on my bed, casually scrolling through his phone while I paced around the room, trying to fit everything I thought I'd need into my suitcase. Packing had turned into a much bigger task than I'd expected.

"You sure you're only going for a few days?" he teased, not even looking up from his phone. "Feels like you're packing for a month, princess."

I shot him a glare, folding one more dress before tossing it into my suitcase. "I like to be prepared," I said defensively, though even I knew I was probably packing way too much.