Page 527 - Fourth Wing

what kind of scenario is waiting for us,” Xaden calls out, his voice carrying

over the squad.
“You doing all right?” Liam asks, coming my way as Tairn and Andarna

both take the few steps they need to access the water.

“Stay with Tairn,” I tell Andarna. She’s a shiny target this far from the
protection of the Vale.

“I will.”

Gods, I should have left her at Basgiath. What the hell was I thinking,
bringing her out here? She’s just a kid, and this flight has been grueling.

“It was never your choice,” Tairn lectures. “Humans, even bonded ones,

do not decide where dragons fly. Even one as young as Andarna knows her
own mind.” His words bring little comfort. When push comes to shove, I’m

responsible for her safety.
“Violet?” Concern furrows Liam’s brow.

“If I say I’m not sure, will you think less of me?” There are so many

ways to answer that question. Physically, I’m sore but fine, but mentally…
Well, I’m a mess of anxiety and anticipation for what the War Games will

bring. We were warned the quadrant always loses ten percent of the
graduating class in the final test, but it’s more than that. I just can’t put my

finger on it.

“I’d think you’re being honest.”
I glance to the left and see Xaden deep in conversation with Garrick.

Naturally, the section leader made the cut for Xaden’s personal squad.

Xaden looks my way, our eyes locking for a second, and that’s all it takes
to remind my body that I had him naked a few hours ago, the lines of his

carved muscles straining against my skin. I’m so damned in love with that

man. How am I supposed to keep it off my face?
Just be professional. That’s all I have to do. Though the way I’m

hyperaware of each and every thing he’s said and done since leaving his
bedroom pretty much makes me a walking example of why first-years