The Settler

Chapter 2

Cool air conditioning hits my face as I walk into the hall. I glance around the grand room and  a smile plasters itself onto my face as I see Khloe  sat uncomfortably inbetween Kay and Kurtis as they both unsuccessfully try to flirt with her. I can see why. Khloe is gorgeous, with white blonde hair that flows like a waterfall down her back and sapphire blue eyes that can set any boy in a trance. If it wasn't for her laid back demeanor, you would think she was a Higher.

I make a bee line towards her table stepping quickly past two catering Highers and sit down. She glances at me gratefully and signals for me to make them leave the table. I stifle a laugh and declare a feigned sickness. Kay's smile disappears and I know what he's thinking. If he becomes ill he could be stopped by the Highers again and we all know where he would end up...

Kurtis however smiles heartily at me and shakes his head.

"Don't be stupid, we can't get ill here anymore." he looks down as embarrassed before continuing." but it's good to see you, you look beautiful..."

I feel my pale cheeks flush and I turn my head away from his praise.

I don't know whay he said that, I'm not pretty in the slightest. My mousey blonde hair stays in a tight bun most of the time and when its down it stays in a thick clump just below my shoulders. I'm slim but I have chubby cheeks and always feel bloated. My eyes are my only good feature, a deep majestic blue. Khloe interrupts my thoughts,

"Fine, stay! All we wanted was a girly chat  about our bodies together but..." a look of dramatic sadness passes over Khloes face "I guess we will have to just involve you in the conversation."

"Woah! No thanks ladies, c'mon Kay." says Kurtis grabbing Kay by the collar and dragging him away to a different table.

I turn and make a face at Khloe.

"So, how's your body?" I ask her jokingly.

She rolls her eyes and smiles carelessly.

"I only said that to get them out the way!" she suddenly darts forward and grips my arm tightly, "I get my placement tomorrow!"

"Tomorrow?" the surprise is evident in my tines of voice, "but the placements aren't for weeks!"

She grins excitedly "They were impressed with my performance so I get mine early! Isn't that great?!"

I try and be happy for her but one of my imperfections rears it's ugly head, jealousy.