Page 144 of Knot Happening Again

“Four.”

My gaze darts to the crowd, searching.

There.

A spotlight seems to shine on her.

She glows beneath it, watching me.

Like an angel.

She's here.

She came.

“Five.”

“Six.”

I've never given a shit about impressing anyone before.

Fighting's always been instinctive.

As natural as breathing.

But now...

“Seven.”

I struggle to my feet, legs trembling.

Jace circles, predatory.

He thinks he's got me.

Maybe he does.

“Eight.”

Our eyes lock across the arena.

Ophelia.

She's on her feet, lips parted, hands clenched.

Is she worried?

Disappointed?

“Nine.”

She's... cheering.

For me.

Something ignites in my chest.

A fire I thought I'd lost.