Page 296 - Fourth Wing

target.

Captain Fitzgibbons makes some minor announcements, and I tune him
out as someone strides our way, cutting through the space between the

Flame and Tail Sections of our wing.

Just like it always does, my stupid, hormone-driven heart stutters at the
first sight of Xaden. Even the most effective poisons come in pretty

packages, and Xaden’s exactly that—as beautiful as he is lethal. He looks

deceptively calm as he approaches, but I can feel his tension as if it’s my
own, like a panther prowling toward his prey. The wind ruffles his hair, and

I sigh at the completely unfair advantage he has over every man in this

courtyard. He doesn’t even have to try to look sexy…he just is.
Oh shit. This feeling right here—the way my breath catches and my

entire body draws tight when he’s near—is why I haven’t taken anyone to
bed or celebrated like the rest of my perfectly normal friends. This feeling

is why I haven’t wanted anyone…else.

Because I want him.
There aren’t enough curse words in the world for this.

His gaze locks with mine just long enough to quicken my pulse before he
addresses Dain, ignoring Fitzgibbons’s announcements behind him.

“There’s a change to your squad roll.”

“Wingleader?” Dain questions, his spine straightening. “We just absorbed
four from the dissolution of the third squad.”

“Yes.” Xaden looks to the right, where Second Squad, Tail Section stands

at attention. “Belden, we’re making a roll change.”
“Yes, sir.” The squad leader nods once.

“Aetos, Vaughn Penley will be leaving your command, and you’ll be

gaining Liam Mairi from Tail Section.”
Dain’s mouth snaps shut, and he nods.

We all watch as the two first-year riders exchange places. Penley’s only
been with us since Threshing, so there’s no heartfelt goodbye from our