What the Spell

Chapter Nineteen: The Council's Visit

After lots of talking, they were on board with our new plan and would become members of my new council. I gave them everything they needed to study and learn about how to rule, but I made sure to withhold as much information as I could. If the Council ever found out about my plan and they were interrogated forcefully, I needed to make sure they gave away as little information as possible.

Speaking of the Council, I got a letter from them that day. It explained that they were coming to see me that day, and they would me testing me on many political topics, as well as a “where you are so far in magic” quiz. I was nervous, to say in the very least, and had been prepped by Chris all morning to make sure I didn’t blow my cover, and also that I knew how to take their side.

“I have no idea how you’re going to do on the magic thing, but I’ve seen your abilities and know you can wing it. I believe in you, babe,” he said, kissing me on the forehead. We basically sprinted to class, as I was still going to be in first and second block.

“Are you sure you can handle this?” he whispered. “We could still back down, you know.”

“No,” I whispered, gripping his hand as tight as I could, to the point where my fingers turned white. “We couldn’t, not even if I wanted to. After everything we know? I wouldn’t be able to live with myself.”

“I know,” he murmured. “That’s why I love you.” He ran his fingers through my hair, and I blushed before giving him a light peck on the cheek.

I was distracted all throughout class. I just started counting in my head, trying to think of anything other than what I was about to go through.

And then, the phone rang.

It was in second block, smack in the middle. I knew it was for me instantly, and I started to shake. I kept telling myself to remain calm, I couldn’t afford to look weak, but I couldn’t stop. I felt like I was going to pass out.

And, he took my hand.

I know Chris had done a lot for me, but it was in that moment when I really knew that I loved him, and why I did. He was going against every belief he had by offering me a way out, and I knew that. And, he was giving me his unwavering support. He was putting his life on the line for me. For us.

I stopped shaking immediately. If I couldn’t do it for me, I would do it for him. I had to stay strong for the both of us.

I stood up before she even said my name. Her eyes met mine, and she just gave me a curt nod. I started to leave, but Chris stood up, following me. I stayed silent, but when we got to the hallway I exploded.

“You can’t take this risk!” I hissed. “It’s bad enough that I’m in danger, I’m not risking you, too. Plus, they might get more suspicious.”

“Let them,” he murmured, cupping my face and pressing his lips to mine. I let him pull it to me, and I was finally able to clear my mind. He was the distraction I needed. I let him push me into the lockers. I let him cup my ass, and move his hands over me. I let our tongues dance together.

I needed him.

After a moment, he pulled away. “Please let me go with you.”

I nodded. He didn’t remove his arm from my waist as we walked down the hallway.

When we got to the office, I had managed to keep calm and my shaking had completely stopped. I stood outside the door, suddenly questioning myself, and everything I had done.

But, it was the right thing to do. There was no denying that.

I grabbed the handle. I let my hand stay there for a few seconds as I collected myself. Then, I pulled back.