At once, Nicholas and I scrambled to our feet. Nicholas blocked Julian’s view as I readjusted myself, fixing my bra. When I was put together enough, Nicholas checked me over once before standing aside. Out lips were red from kissing. Our clothes were wrinkled, and our hair disheveled. But there

“Maybe we should turn back,” Nicholas said. “Too late now,” Julian said. “We’ve got to be sure.” “I see light up there, Julian,” Nicholas said. “Dim the flashlight.” Julian turned to the flashlight to the dimmest setting, and aimed it down at the ground. We had to move slower than before

They wanted abilities. They wanted people. They had Terry involved, and my sister, and who knew how many others. How could we ever hope to stand up to something so large and powerful? But I knew we had to try. To not even try to fight them was how they would win. Even if it seemed hopeless.

I was exhausted but I complied, changing into a simple dress and then heading downstairs. When I saw Susie standing in the back of the room, I immediately went to her side. Most of the girls assumed Nathan was soon to announce the next event for the competition, and so there was much speculation

Julian and I were on a couch in a sitting room, looking at each other. Julian had made himself comfortable, bringing on knee up onto the cushion so he could more easily face me. I was sitting very still with my hands in my lap. I was still embarrassed about what had earlier happened with Nicholas.