Chapter 9

I hated myself, how could I ever want this? How could I ever consider hurting the boy I loved just to get close to a sadistic asshole that was planning on destroying me and my friends? A storm raged outside and I knew it was my fault, Tancred was an emotional wreck. Lightening flashed across the sky, and I cried even more. After break, I locked myself in the backroom of the drama coatroom and refused to leave, even well after classes and dinner. I checked my watch. It was almost lights out and I needed to get back to my dormitory, but I didn't want to. I did not want to see Emma, and look into her eyes knowing that I know had granted her, her greatest wish-Tancred.

I waited until I was sure Emma was asleep and crept out of my hiding spot. I glanced out of the window as I passed by and saw the tree where I asked Tancred to meet me was black; burnt by lightening.

"Yes, our little Tancred can throw quite the temper tantrum can't he?" A very familiar voice said.

I turned to face Manfred, "Yes, he can be very dramatic." I smiled.

"Care to accompany me to my office?" Manfred asked, placing a hand on my lower back and guiding me. His eyes didn't seem so cold anymore as he stared down into mine.

"How did you know?" I asked, my hand reaching for his. My heart fluttered. Wait, my heart fluttered? My heart still belonged to Tancred!

"Never underestimate me, my dear." Manfred said while he opened and held his office door. I entered and crossed to the leather couch, and peered out the window.

"Why did you do it? Was it because of me?" Manfred asked, as he sat on the leather couch, his eyes never leaving me.

"Yes, and no." I replied, backing away from the raging storm and began to examine Manfred's office.

"Care to elaborate?" He asked.

I shook my head and sighed, I studied the spines of the books on the shelve. My heart ached for warmth. I wished Manfred would light the fire. "Not tonight, I'm so exhausted."

"Would you like me to walk you to your dormitory?" The fireplace crackled to life and warmth spread across the entire office, warming me to my toes.

"No, it's so cold there, and now I have no friends, why would I want to be with people who hate me?" I retorted realizing the truth of my statement. Come morning I would not have any friends. Tears prickled at the back of my eyes.

"Athena." Manfred breathed as he wrapped his arms around me and pulled me to the couch. "I'll be your friend; I'll help you through this. Please, you're too pretty to cry." His soft hands traced my face.

"You hardly know me!" I replied, pulling away. My heart pounded and I just wanted to rest.

"That'll change soon. " He stated confidently, moving away from me. "Stay here and rest for tonight. Goodnight Athena." He closed his office door behind him.