The Hidden Princess At All-Boys Alpha Academy

Chapter 0379

"I thought you said a shower wasn't going to change the way I smell now?" I say, frowning at Rafe.

"It's going to help," he says, turning back to me and raising his eyebrows. "Seriously, Ariel, you...you smell like you took a bath in eau d'Jackson. It's not a bad thing but it is...a statement cologne."

I laugh a little and he nods to me, stepping out the door, clearly letting me know he'll give me a minute. Rafe pulls the door after him, but doesn't let it completely shut.

Quietly, I cross the room to Jackson, who holds my gaze as I do.

"Hi," I say quietly - the same thing I said last night when I showed up at his door. But this time I say it with...a little less verve.

Jackson just smirks at me, reaching to cup my cheek in his palm.

"I'm really sorry, Jacks," I whisper. "It shouldn't have happened like that."

your fault,"

say, my voice low. "You're the one who had

a lot worse for you,"

back, unable to help it. I step a little closer and look up

reaching out and tucking my hair back behind my ear in that way he likes. But something in his terseness - I mean, Jackson

tell he doesn't feel quite

he'll say yes, let me talk him through this, fix it all. I raise myself

Jackson just sighs and shakes his head. "I think I need a minute, Ariel," he says

flat, suddenly worried. Is he mad at me? Is this...is

tugging me close against him. "Don't get all mixed up about it," he says, shaking his head at me. "We're fine, Ariel. I just... Ella said...she said that I am allowed to take a minute. To ask for time alone when

Ella?" He grins at me. "Ella is behind all

nodding down at me. "She's on my side

She's going

forehead, murmuring that it sounds