The Hidden Princess At All-Boys Alpha Academy

Chapter 0450

"I'm sorry," Jackson says, and I can tell by his devastated tone that he means it very much. "I'm so sorry, Ariel." "Jackson," I sigh, frustrated - because it's very difficult to be angry with him when he's being so sweet. "What are you even sorry for?"

around him.

He pauses and it's instantly clear to me that he has no idea what it is that I'm mad about - he's just ready to apologize for anything. I laugh a little and so does he when he realizes what is happening. He tucks his head down against my shoulder and I wrap my arms "Please," he murmurs. "I am sorry if I've upset you - but I don't understand. Please tell me."

"It's just - it's happened twice tonight, hasn't it? And more in the past few weeks. It's like all of you boys make these decisions and strike these deals, usually with me at the center of them, and no one really asks me what I think. And sometimes I need that help - like the morning when Luca came and banged on your bedroom door and I had no idea what to do. But other times - like this decision about the timeshare? Jackson, you and Luca can't just decide how I split my time without asking me about it."

He nods, and down the bond I can see that he instantly understands and feels terrible. "We were just trying to make it easier on you," he whispers. "It's complicated - and we both get so riled when you're between us."

"I know," I sigh, stroking his hair. "But just because it's easier for you to decide without me sometimes doesn't mean you should."

a little to look me in the eyes. "I

to stroke his hair. Then I frown, thinking about the deal that he struck with Luca. "You're really fine with

and study time - that Luca could have that. Which is fine by me - I don't know how any of you get any

in a room full of boys too," I say quietly. "I would have thought you'd

quiet," he says, frowning at me like

"Luca knows

no," Jackson says, laughing a little.

side of him. He laughs a little too, enjoying himself.

a contented sigh. "Which we can use. But I'm not sure we'll need it if I get you all night, and all morning, and in magic class..." he

but...also knowing that he's going to flip out if he finds out. I sigh, wondering what the best

shoulder. "I'll do whatever you want. We can talk to Luca and change the plan

the dark, wicked in my own turn. "And what if I said