I feel like a completely different person. It shocks me to think how much I’ve changed in these past months. I hardly knew how to interact with people-could barely understand the words in my own head. I had no experience with stealth or manipulation. I was weak and terrified and blind to the idea of possibility. I was a scared, broken girl, fighting back the only way I knew how. I never would’ve gotten myself and so many others into this mess. And I never would’ve dragged Adam down with me. I would’ve found a way to survive on my own. I would’ve been looking for escape routes and excuses to tour the compounds. I would’ve built up my strength and paid closer attention when he showed me around base. I would’ve eaten the food and taken the clothes. If I knew then what I know now, I would’ve taken advantage of every opportunity Warner had given me. It’s a meal I would’ve scoffed at when I first arrived.

Diced, seasoned potatoes and a small helping of steamed vegetables. There’s tossed salad and fragrant, colorful rice. “Thank you,” I say, my eyes focused on the meal. He nods to the floor before folding himself onto the carpet.

“Have a seat,” he says, not meeting my eyes. I can’t remember the last time I ate anything I’ve been surviving off the energy recharge I received when my wound was healed. He carries the tray closer to the bed and it’s not until I spot the glasses of water and the plates of food that I realize exactly how hungry I am. “I should probably cut my hair,” I say to no one in particular, not understanding why I’ve even said it. Warner is suddenly transfixed by a spot directly above my head. I drop my hands and my hair at the same time, the brown waves falling hard and fast around my shoulders, my back, hitting my waist. The memory of his kisses along my torso his hands exploring my back, my bare legs, the backs of my thighs, his fingers hooking around the elastic band of my underwear. And I suddenly understand why he’s staring. I follow his eyes only to realize that my movements have lifted my shirt and exposed my stomach. His gaze sweeps across my face, down my neck, my arms. I’m caught in the middle of a thought, holding my hair up with both hands in a makeshift ponytail, and suddenly acutely aware of the fact that I’m not wearing any underwear.

Ignite me pages