Elemental

17. Negotiations

Ariah

We were in the limo, on our way to school with the maids when Lila broke the silence.

"No one is to speak to those guys, do you hear me? And if you must, keep it short and simple. Vague would be best." She eyed all of us.

I nodded. That's all I could do since yesterday's argument with Nana.

We came back and updated our household of the situation. There was a lot of eye bulging but everyone paid close attention dispite the gruesome details. Honestly it somewhat made me lose my appetite during dinner. Especially thoughts of Nana.

Her pleads kept replaying in my head, seeping into my dreams. Clawing at my subconscious.

Damn her. She knew I had a soft spot for sentiment. So is she using it against me? Is she trying to play with my mind? To get what she wants? What does she want?

"Ariah." I heard from somewhere on my right.

"Yes?" My head shot up.

"What's up witchu? You hella been spacin since last night. You know somethin we don't?" Tai proned, curiousity sat high on her brows.

Yes. I thought.

"No. Nothing at all. Just tired. And sore." Technically I wasn't lying.

She nodded slowly but I could tell she wasn't buying it.

"Alright ladies, I'll see you again today after school. Enjoy your day." James smiled from the drivers seat.

We said our farewells and entered the gates of hell.

I practically sulked all the way to English. My legs dragging themselves down the busy hallway. Ignoring the eyes on my back, I turned into the room to find Jimin already seated. In the seat next to mine.

And I was about to step back outside when I stomped on someone's foot. Before I could stop myself, I slipped and lost my balance. Luckily, the victim had faster reflexes.

I felt arms hug my waist, as I fell back on a very firm and warm chest.

"Ouff." They barely sighed.

My eyes traveled to the arms that were still on my waist. No one had ever touched me like that, so I didn't exactly know how to react. In the end, I chose to jump out of the arms.

"S-sorry. I didn't mean to step on you." I apologized without looking back. I was too embarrassed. Embarrassed enough to practically run to the safety of my desk before they could answer.

"Pfftt. She's cute." I heard a male voice.

Hmmmm. Deep voice, firm arms, warm chest. He must be hot?

I mentally slapped myself before taking a seat.

Wake up Ariah! We didn't come here for guys we came to be safe!

My notebook was open when he spoke.

"Hey, it's me Jimin. Your mentor?"