Disclaimer: Ally Carter owns the Gallagher series…I…don't. *sniffle*

Forever and Always

Chapter 1: The Welcoming

"I am pleased to say that you all are back at Gallagher safe and sound," My mother's voice rang around the Great Hall. It sometimes helps to listen to your mother's speeches. Especially if she's the headmistress at your top-secret spy school.

But I had other things on my mind at the time. Things like the spy group that was out to kidnap me. And the nightmares I have been beginning to have; almost each one of them having something to do with the said group and…Dad. It wasn't that serious. Ok fine, it was very, very serious. I woke up shaking most of the time and it was becoming harder to hide.

Oh, and another one of those things was a certain someone that I was beginning to hate. Ok, I already hated him but it was getting unbearable. Zachary Goode.

I met him on several occasions last year and he left me hanging. Every time. And his mood swings? What was up with that guy?

Maybe it was because I was thinking about him at the time. Or because I just really wanted answers. Or maybe I'm just becoming paranoid. But my mind automatically tuned back in when I heard the word Blackthorne.

"-with Blackthorne. The exchange we did two semesters ago was a success, and all the staff along with the CIA agrees that it was good for all of you. We have developed a four semester program which you will learn more about in the future. All needed to be said now is welcome back Blackthorne!" In all my years of spy training, I have never seen so many shocked faces. I personally knew that the 'success' wasn't the only reason Blackthorne was back. I decided to make my mom spill later. But now…just wasn't the time.

It was never good for spy to be surprised. Spies always expect all the possibilities. And I knew that more than anyone else did. So, I wasn't surprised when my mom welcomed Blackthorne. I wasn't surprised when I saw Zach come in with the crowd streaming in through the doorway. But what I was surprised at was the fact that Zach stopped by on his way to the boys' table. And that I automatically stood up. And that he hugged me.

And whispered in my ear, "I missed you, Gallagher Girl."

A/N: How was it? Yet again, I know it's short but the chapters will get longer, don't worry about it, I have the next 10 chapters planned out. I just need to type them.

Review Please!

-Sami