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    Ignite (Midnight Fire Series Book One)
    Ignite (Midnight Fire Series Book One)
    Ignite (Midnight Fire Series Book One)
    Ebook271 pages3 hours

    Ignite (Midnight Fire Series Book One)

    By Kaitlyn Davis

    3.5/5

    ()

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    About this ebook

    Kira Dawson has the power to burn vampires to a crisp. The problem is, she doesn't know it yet. The even bigger problem is, she's dating one.

    When Kira Dawson moves to South Carolina, she meets Luke, a blond goofball who quickly becomes her best friend, and Tristan, a mysterious bad boy who sends shivers down her spine. Kira knows they're keeping secrets, but when she discovers Tristan's lust for blood and her own dormant mystical powers, Kira is forced to fight for her life and make the heartbreaking decision between the familiar comfort of friendship and the fiery passion of love.

    From bestselling author Kaitlyn Davis comes a paranormal romance perfect for fans of Twilight, The Vampire Diaries, and Buffy The Vampire Slayer. Ignite is the first book in the Midnight Fire Series and it is approximately 65,000 words.

    RAVE REVIEWS!

    "Best book I have ever read besides The Fault In Our Stars." -- Hope Cooper (Amazon Review)

    "This book was awesome! I love the idea!...The story is fun, exciting and full of drama!" -- Jen Stewart of Jen's Bookshelf

    "I was riveted throughout and was eager to see what would happen - there was drama, danger, action and romance that was wonderfully detailed and described." -- S. Condous "SC" of Obsession With Books

    "YES ITS DIFFERENT AND I THROUGHLY ENJOYED IT!! I'm a vampire lover, and enjoy any tale that is certainly unlike any other and that grabs and piques my interest. Ignite certainly did this." -- K.M. Whittaker

    "It's a unique and riveting tale that leaves you begging for more! (On that note - I am quite literally breathless in anticipation for Simmer to come out!)" -- Maria Maldo (Amazon Review)

    "I walked into a sign while reading this book - I could not tear myself away until I finished it!" -- Uncle Jimmy (Amazon Review)

    "It's been a while since I have read a really good YA vampire book. They have become so cliche that I often avoid them. Imagine my surprise when I picked up Ignite and fell in love with it by page 17." -- Kristin of Better Read Than Dead

    "Likeable characters, I'm sure you will giggle with, frown at, and even curse, moments where you heart will be palpitating and a curve ball is thrown in." -- K.M. Whittaker

    Keywords: Teen & Young Adult, Paranormal Romance, Romance, Paranormal, Vampires, Angels, Love, Action & Adventure, Magic, Fantasy, Free, Freebie, Free Book

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherKaitlyn Davis
    Release dateOct 9, 2011
    ISBN9781465852366
    Ignite (Midnight Fire Series Book One)
    Author

    Kaitlyn Davis

    Meet Kaitlyn Davis!Kaitlyn Davis, a bestselling author with over a quarter of a million books sold, writes young adult fantasy novels under the name Kaitlyn Davis and contemporary romance novels under the name Kay Marie. Publishers Weekly has said, "Davis writes with confidence and poise," while USA Today has recommended her work as "must-read romance."Always blessed with an overactive imagination, Kaitlyn has been writing ever since she picked up her first crayon and is overjoyed to share her work with the world. When she's not daydreaming, typing stories, or getting lost in fictional worlds, Kaitlyn can be found playing fetch with her puppy, watching a little too much television, or spending time with her family. If you have any questions for her--about her books, about scheduling an event, or just in general--you may contact her at: [email protected] up for Kaitlyn's newsletter to stay up-to-date with all of her new releases, to receive exclusive subscriber bonus content, and more! bit.ly/KaitlynDavisNewsletterA Complete List of Books by Kaitlyn DavisMidnight Fire, a bestselling YA paranormal romance with over 200,000 copies sold! - Start this series for free today! amzn.to/1NAIBDUIgniteSimmerBlazeScorchBurnMidnight Ice, a brand new companion series to Midnight Fire!FrostFreezeFractureShatterOnce Upon A Curse, a USA Today "must-read" YA series of fairy tale retellings.Gathering FrostWithering RoseChasing Midnight - Coming Soon!A Dance of Dragons, a YA epic fantasy that was just selected as an SPFBO finalist! - Start this series for free today! amzn.to/1MuVm7VThe Golden Cage (novella)The Shadow SoulThe Silver Key (novella)The Spirit HeirThe Bronze Knight (novella)The Phoenix BornThe Iron Rider (novella)

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    Reviews for Ignite (Midnight Fire Series Book One)

    3.5/5

    55 ratings6 reviews

    What did you think?

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    Review must be at least 10 words

    • 5/5
      this is a great book if u love vampires and supernaturals
    • 4/5
      Kira Dawson has the power to burn vampires to a crisp. The problem is, she doesn't know it yet. The even bigger problem is, she's dating one.When Kira Dawson moves to South Carolina, she meets Luke, a blond goofball who quickly becomes her best friend, and Tristan, a mysterious bad boy who sends shivers down her spine. Kira knows they're keeping secrets, but when she discovers Tristan's lust for blood and her own dormant mystical powers, Kira is forced to fight for her life and make the heart-breaking decision between the familiar comfort of friendship and the fiery passion of love.Ignite was another book from Tea's Wishlist challenge. I did enjoy this book, even though I found it slow at first. We have a familiar setting of a girl that moves to a new place, makes friends and enemies right away, and discovers secrets. And, it turns out the boy she loves is a vampire.The first though I have in the first chapters, and I believe you did too, was - Twilight much? But, no. Once you get to read further into the book, you realise that Kira is nothing like Bella. And Tristan is nothing like Edward either.This book is so different, and somewhat refreshing from all vampire books I have read so far. It isn't even a book about vampires. It's a book about this girl that can mirror the sun's light and heat from her hands, and is able to hurt only vampires. With her friend, Luke, Kira will discover that she has this ability, and so much more, she will discover secrets about her past that will change her life forever, and she will have to choose between her best friend or the love of her life.I thought that this book might have used more action, as I felt a bit bored, especially at the beginning, and sometimes during some parts of the book.I loved Kira's character - she is the typical girl that moves and tries her best to fit in.I loved Tristan - he proves that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, and sometimes people aren't what everyone thinks they are, and your environment doesn't define you as a person.I didn't like Luke - I know he was there with a mission to tell Kira her secrets and protect her - but what friend would make you feel guilty about every single choice you have to make in your life. He is like, the very attached and overprotective boyfriend, that isn't her boyfriend.Overall, it was a great refreshing read, and I look forward to reading the rest of the series. If you love vampire high-school stories, women that discover they have powers, a lot of forbidden love and paranormal fantasy - you will really enjoy this book. Solid 4 stars from me!

      1 person found this helpful

    • 3/5
      *Received e-book through Read It and Reap program from the Shut Up and Read! Goodreads group from author; **Also posted on Amazon.com under LeanneDavis succeeds in writing an entertaining, light entry in the YA vampire genre. I found Kira to be a headstrong heroine who was determined to connect with the mysterious love interest, Tristan. I enjoyed their romantic scenes, especially when Tristan shows Kira his favorite spot in the city, which added realism to their developing relationship. I also adored Luke, the best friend, who takes Kira under his wing and becomes like a big brother to her. Their cute interactions complemented the seriousness with Tristan. In addition, I liked the fact that the vampires in this story were not glamorized, but actually lusting after blood and not apologizing for it. Lastly, I liked the creativity Davis displayed with the introduction of conduits concept and the unique role of Kira in the world of vampires. On the other hand, I was distracted with reminders of the Twilight series. Similarities include the moving of Kira to a new school that has an outcast vampire clique, the protective best friend that discourages her attraction to a tortured bad boy, and even the cooking/domestic ability of Kira. Although Davis does add twists to the story that makes it more original, I couldn’t help but be disappointed with the number of instances of déjà vu. Overall, Ignite was a fun, fast read with likeable characters. I would recommend this to teen readers who are fans of YA paranormal romances, such as the Twilight and Vampire Academy series.

      1 person found this helpful

    • 2/5
      Gave up about 1/3 of the way through ,and already forgot the main characters names. So it totally didn't work for me. It's almost like it's ticking boxes on a "Lrn2Twilight" checklist, and I just didn't care enough about any of it to finish it.

      Not awful, but not very memorable or interesting, and my TBR is long and calling to me louder than reading the rest of this is.
    • 4/5
      What we have here is a different kind of love triangle. Kira comes to South Carolina to live with her family after years at a boarding school in New York. She has to fit in at a new school and make new friends in a place where she has only spent summers. She is quickly integrated into the group of other newcomers meeting Luke, Emma, Dave and Miles. They become friends but she is also fascinated by a group that her new friends call the Misfits. The Misfits seem equally fascinated by her and begin staring at her whenever they are around. She is especially fascinated with Tristan. According to her, he has that rebel without a cause, bad boy look going along with a killer bod, black hair, and icy blue eyes.Her new friend Luke and Tristan are enemies but neither will explain why. After a few interesting events, including a near drowning while surfing and being saved by Tristan, Kira's crush deepens. She seems to keep running into Tristan although he does try to stay away from her. It isn't until she is attacked by the Misfits and exhibits strange powers that things start to come clear.Kira is a conduit. Conduits are the only ones who can kill vampires which is what the Misfits are. But there are two kinds of conduits - Protectors and Punishers - and Kira is the forbidden child of a Punisher father and a Protector mother. Her parents were killed when she was little and she has been raised by her aunt and uncle not knowing they weren't her parents. Luke has been sent by the Protectors to guard and train her. They become good friends as he teaches her about conduits and she learns what she can do. Apparently being the child of both a Punisher and Protector has given Kira some unique powers too. She is able to use her powers to heal which Luke is reluctant to share with the Council that sent him to guard her.Luke becomes her best friend but Tristan is the one she loves despite all Luke can do to convince her that all vampires are evil. She sees something special in Tristan. They get to know each other and secretly date. His companions and hers are both opposed to the relationship. She is convinced that he is not evil and that he won't hurt her. This was a nice romance and had some exciting parts for the action lover. It is also a story of a girl who learns that she has a hidden history. I liked the story but felt it could have done with some copy-editing. There were a few wrong words and a number of grammatical things that were sort of jarring. I have a personal phobia about misusing "loose" and "lose" and the author was guilty of this. Also there were a quite a few instances when "her" was used when "she" would have been more correct. Here is example of the wrong word choice:"Your foe confidence is amusing," Diana said and grabbed hold of Kira's chin. I had to read that one a couple of times before I realized that the author meant "faux." None of these things hurt the flow or excitement in the story but they were a bit distracting.I recommend this story for young adults who want to read one more story about vampires and the girls who love them. The concept of conduits who are able to kill vampires was a nice touch. And, naturally, the author has a sequel in the works.

      1 person found this helpful

    • 3/5
      Major plot hole

      I read Kaitlin's other series (Dance of Dragons) and loved it, so I thought this one would be great too. Totally wrong. This reads like a first draft for an author's first ever work. I don't actually know if it is her first novel, but geez, even during the writing process, newbies study and learn about the craft of writing to at least improve upon the basics. Not even close.

      The middle of the novel picked up to the point where I thought I could rate this four stars. I was actually digging the steamy relationship going on between the human and the vampire. Oh, but the end. The scene was so messed up. Not very well thought through. Just unbelievable.

      Spoiler alert here:
      I was pretty sure the conduit was using her powers at night, right? Uh, when the sun, which gives Kira her powers is on the other side of the earth. So why the heck would an eclipse make her lose her power? The moon is only blocking the sun, it's still on the same side of the earth. Just not believable.

      At least I had a good laugh. Cause that's what you'll get.

      My three star rating means, reading the sequel is not worth my time.

    Book preview

    Ignite (Midnight Fire Series Book One) - Kaitlyn Davis

    Ignite

    Midnight Fire Book One

    By

    Kaitlyn Davis

    eBook Edition

    Copyright 2011 Kaitlyn Davis M.

    Cover Art: Covers by Juan

    Interior Art:

    Chapter symbol manipulated by Kaitlyn Davis with photoshop brush by DusterAmaranth.

    The right of Kaitlyn Davis to be identified as the author of this work has been asserted in accordance with the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988

    This eBook is copyright material and must not be copied, reproduced, transferred, distributed, leased, licensed or publicly performed or used in any way except as specifically permitted in writing by the author, as allowed under the terms and conditions under which it was purchased or as strictly permitted by applicable copyright law. Any unauthorized distribution or use of this text may be direct infringement of the author's rights and those responsible may be liable in law accordingly.

    This is a work of fiction and any resemblances between the characters and persons living or dead is purely coincidental.

    All Titles by Kaitlyn Davis

    Midnight Fire

    Ignite

    Simmer

    Blaze

    Scorch

    Burn

    Midnight Ice

    Frost

    Freeze

    Fracture

    Shatter

    Once Upon a Curse

    Gathering Frost

    Withering Rose

    Chasing Midnight

    A Dance of Dragons

    The Shadow Soul

    The Spirit Heir

    The Phoenix Born

    Leena’s Story – The Novellas

    To my family for their unconditional love,

    my friends for their overwhelming support,

    and my fans for their incredible enthusiasm.

    Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

    Table of Contents

    All Works by Kaitlyn Davis

    Dedication

    Prologue

    Chapter One

    Chapter Two

    Chapter Three

    Chapter Four

    Chapter Five

    Chapter Six

    Chapter Seven

    Chapter Eight

    Chapter Nine

    Chapter Ten

    Chapter Eleven

    Chapter Twelve

    Chapter Thirteen

    Chapter Fourteen

    Chapter Fifteen

    Epilogue

    Bonus Scenes from Luke and Tristan's POVs

    Simmer Preview

    About The Author

    Prologue

    Kira watched as he languidly stood, flexing his muscles as though he had just awakened from a long dream. He stretched his arms over his head and cracked the bones in his neck before finally settling his gaze on her. She hardly recognized him, the boy she had fallen in love with. Where minutes before there had been light and emotion in his eyes, now there was only a black hole, a seemingly endless abyss. Kira had never seen him look at her that way, like less than food, like vermin, even since the first time they met.

    Aren’t you going to run? he asked with sinister humor coloring his words. The smirk on his face may as well have been a knife cutting through her heart. The darkness had always called him, but Kira thought that being with her would be enough to keep him from crossing over. She saw now that he had surrendered to his nature, and for the first time, she felt real fear when he looked at her.

    Kira stepped backward on shaky feet, trying to digest the question. She didn’t have an answer. How could she turn her back on him and run away? The man she loved was trying to kill her. There were no options. Could she forget it all—all the nights they had shared kissing and swapping secrets—and fight to kill? Or would she run and admit that there was no hope he would return to her?

    Kira said his name and reached out her hand, searching one last time for the man she had lost.

    Yes, honey? The words hit her like a slap in the face as they rolled off his tongue, drenched in sarcasm.

    Kira looked up at the sun, still hidden behind the shadow of the moon, and sprinted into the tree line behind her. She couldn’t give up on him now. But when the eclipse was over, maybe she would finally find the strength to fight.

    Chapter One

    As Kira waited in line for a parking spot, she studied the sprawling two-story building that took up her entire line of vision. A stone engraving read Charleston County High School and Kira sighed at the daunting brick walls before her. Already she could tell it had a layout much different from the private school she had attended in New York, with numerous buildings sandwiched between corporate skyscrapers and spread out over a few city blocks. The students wandered here at a pace much different from the bustle she had grown used to during the past five years spent at the boarding school that she had begged her parents to attend. But last year her father had been laid off, and Kira knew she would be back home for her senior year.

    Her family had lived in Charleston for about four years, but Kira had never met anyone during her summers home. This would be new for her—a huge school that she would definitely get lost in and tons of people who had probably never even heard of The Met.

    A car honked behind her, and Kira continued moving at a slow pace down the parking lot as students took turns swinging trucks into super-sized, yellow-lined spaces. As she took her turn pulling the eco-friendly car her parents loved into a spot, she knew she wouldn’t quite fit in here. Kira looked to her left at the person sitting in the passenger seat of a pickup truck, a full two feet above her, and felt as tiny and invisible as she probably seemed to him.

    But enough, she thought, straightening her shoulders.

    Kira hated self-pity more than anything, so she grabbed her shoulder bag and made for the front door with the rest of the crowd. She did give Charleston one thing, the smell of marsh and pine was a heck of a lot better than that of car exhaust and garbage.

    Name? the secretary asked as Kira entered the main office for her schedule.

    Kira Dawson.

    Year?

    Senior. Kira ran her hands down the sides of her royal blue sundress, smoothing out the wrinkles to make a good impression on her new classmates.

    Here you go, honey.

    She took the folder and pulled out a schedule. Advanced Calculus, room 253C. Kira walked out to the hallway and looked around for a sign, anything to point her in the right direction, but saw only bare brick walls. After a few minutes, someone finally took pity on her.

    Are you new? A handsome blond guy with a lanky build stood behind her looking over her shoulder at the paper. Oh, 253C, not an easy walk from here. Come on, I’m next door to you. She followed, having no real other choice. So you are new, right, or have my great looks made you speechless?

    Damn, Kira thought, hating to be called out. Time to prove she wasn't a wallflower. Yeah I’m new, and what good looks? You’re so tall I can’t even see your face.

    Touché. He studied her for a moment, and Kira finally got a good look at his face, which she had to admit wasn’t too shabby. He had wispy hair the color of summer corn, a slightly crooked nose spotted with light-brown freckles, and a wide, friendly smile full of perfectly white teeth. There was something about his eyes, green with flecks of yellow, which she found familiar and almost comforting.

    I’m Luke Bowrey. He extended his hand, naturally tanned from a summer in the South, and she shook it.

    Kira Dawson. Nice to meet you, and thanks for the help.

    Not a problem. When I see a damsel in distress I just can’t help but act the knight in shining armor.

    She laughed despite herself. Kira knew he was cocky, but she also instantly knew they could be friends.

    Here’s your stop. Hope to see you later, he said and rushed into the classroom next door right as the bell rang.

    She hurried to do the same and quickly sat in the first seat she could find. The math was easier than she was used to, as were chemistry, biology, and Spanish. Her morning passed smoothly as she followed people from classroom to classroom and eventually into the cafeteria big enough to hold all fifteen hundred students at the school.

    Kira had packed her lunch, so she made her way down the rows of tables, searching for an open seat in a friendly crowd, almost giving up until a huge hand landed on her shoulder.

    Need saving again?

    She smiled to herself—it was Luke coming to the rescue once more. I wouldn’t mind it.

    He nodded to the left and she followed him to one of the smaller tables where two boys and another girl sat. Everyone, this is Kira. Kira, this is everyone.

    The girl rolled her eyes, pointing an exasperated look at Luke.

    Luke, truly amazing introduction, the slightly goofy looking boy with shaggy brown hair and black-rimmed glasses said, and extended his hand. Hey Kira, I’m Miles, this is Emma and that’s Dave. He pointed to the girl—who had dyed blonde hair, more makeup on than Kira was capable of applying, and was wearing Lily Pulitzer—and the boy—who had one tanned arm around her chair back and was sporting a baseball cap for the Dallas Cowboys. We all moved here last winter, but thanks to you we’re no longer the new kids. Not much change happens here. I think five students in one year must be a school record.

    Wow, so everyone is pretty set in their ways then? Kira adjusted the curly red ringlet falling over her eyes, slightly nervous in front of this new crowd. Good thing I found you guys, or good thing I looked lost enough that Luke felt some pity for me.

    We would have found you eventually, Emma added. We’re some of the only kids not here since birth and probably the only ones not here since middle school, so it was almost inevitable that we’d adopt the new kid and not upset the balance.

    The balance? Kira asked, a little confused. Her school in New York had been a constantly changing atmosphere with girls dressed in anything from Gucci to Forever 21 to leggings with holes in them from a flea market.

    It’s like this… Luke put an arm around Kira’s shoulder and steered her gaze to the left side of the large, open room. First, the cafeteria is divided into four with freshman in the front near the grotesque processed food smell, and older kids filling in the back until you get to the seniors around us who have the best window view of the lake and the biggest tables. Then, each year is divided into your standard groups. The jocks have a table. He pointed to the corner that was a sea of blue jerseys full of boys and girls in uniforms. Next are the football players and the cheerleaders who fawn on them, the next table over is the just plain popular because of good looks and in rare cases a stellar attitude. In the middle are the average uncategorized and the most down to earth people you’ll meet. And finally, rounding out the senior class, we have the drama nerds mixed with the emos, because who really can tell the difference there.

    She stared at the groups, sort of seeing the distinction in clothes and stature, black leotard looking garments versus regular jeans and a T-shirt or pompoms, but not totally understanding it. She wasn’t used to groups, except for rich and scholarship, which had been the only divide at her private school. But even then, it was sometimes hard to tell just from looks, because the wealthiest students would come to school wearing oversized sweaters with moth holes, and the poorest students might spend a month’s income on one dress.

    Luke, you forgot the misfits, Miles added and turned his head out the window.

    Meaning us? Kira asked, certainly feeling like this motley little group didn’t fit into any of the categories Luke had mentioned.

    Nah, we’re still the newbies, those are the misfits. Don’t know how I forgot. Luke turned Kira toward the tables outside where three boys and a girl were lounging—all pale despite their position in the sun. They sort of keep to themselves.

    Why?

    Don’t know. I don’t really know anything about them actually.

    Luke sounded as though he was holding something back, but Kira had only known him for three hours and didn't want to accuse him of lying, especially after all he had done. She looked outside for a moment longer, and even through the glass, she could tell there was something different about them. It was more than the distinction between a jock and a drama nerd—it was something almost tangible. But whatever it was, she wasn’t going to harp on it now. She had friends to make.

    So, where are you guys all from? Kira asked while sliding into one of the open chairs circling the table.

    Dave just pointed to his hat. Kira guessed he was the silent type.

    He means Dallas, Emma supplied. I am too. We never knew each other before moving here, isn’t that funny. I mean, he went to my rival school, so not that surprising, but still, it’s pretty crazy.

    Fate? Kira said, knowing it was the confirmation Emma searched for and guessing Dave would keep silent.

    Yup, that’s what I like to believe. They smiled at each other.

    The silence from Dave was something she would get used to, Kira decided, hoping she would eventually become friends with both of them. Especially Emma. She liked her perfectly styled hair, manicured nails, and carefully applied makeup. That sort of knowledge would definitely come in handy in the future, maybe before her next date.

    Well, I’m a northerner all the way, Miles interjected. Or I was until my parents moved down here. I lived in Boston and will hopefully be back in Cambridge in no time.

    Kira smiled because Miles definitely looked like the Harvard type, with the pile of books next to his lunch. But she felt a little edge to him too.

    And now, my turn. Luke adopted his theatrical voice again. I, dear lady, am from the far reaches of, drum roll please… He supplied his own when the only response was rolled eyes. Florida, the sunshine state with glorious beaches, Walt Disney World, and a small town in the middle of nowhere called Sonnyville where I was born and raised.

    Wait, you’re from a small town? Kira sputtered, almost spitting out her drink.

    I get that a lot, but why, I don’t understand.

    I don’t mean any offense, it’s just that your personality is so… Kira moved her hands in a wide circle searching for the appropriate word.

    Charming? Luke supplied.

    I think she means big, Miles chipped in, and Luke sat down with a nod of defeat. But Kira just assumed it was more playing around, so she quickly agreed with Miles and smiled.

    You know, I just love your hair. Emma grabbed at Kira’s curly mess. Do you dye it?

    Nope, unfortunately it’s just what I was born with. Kira self-consciously put a hand to her head. She had always felt weird about her hair. It was a curly mess of bright red and almost white blonde strands that mixed to create a sort of strawberry blonde with a punch.

    Well, I’m jealous. I wish I had such natural volume, and guys go crazy for a red head.

    Enough guys already go crazy for you, Dave finally spoke up, pulling Emma tighter into the crook of his arm.

    Ah, the jealous type, Kira thought.

    Luke took a strand of her hair and wrapped the natural curl around his pointer finger. He stared at it intently, almost as if he were in a trance, and Kira stared at him, stuck.

    Luke, creepy much? Emma chimed in. Luke dropped the curl immediately, and he and Kira both turned toward Emma. Whoa, Luke, Kira has your psycho eyes.

    Really? Look at me, Miles asked with a curious expression. Whoa, was all he said when they looked over.

    Let me see. Luke gently held Kira’s chin so she looked into his eyes.

    The moment their gazes touched, she realized why his eyes were so comforting before—she had never seen anyone with irises quite like hers. They were barely green on the outer rim, but that hue was quickly overtaken by a yellow tint with red and orange specks that almost looked like fire. Most people were weirded out by it, but she liked that she wouldn’t be alone in that, at least for the next year.

    I didn’t think they’d look the same, Luke murmured softly. Kira paused at the words Luke clearly had not meant to say out loud.

    Well, obviously you wouldn’t think a complete stranger has the same eyes as you, Emma said, and Kira silently thanked her for commenting. She was still trying to figure out what he was talking about. What’s up with you today, Luke? You’re acting all mysterious.

    There was a momentary pause. Luke opened his mouth, seemingly unsure of how to answer, but then the lunch bell rang. They all stood up, conversation forgotten. Kira had English with Luke, so he grabbed her arm and started pulling her through the all too confusing hallways she feared she would never figure out. After a few minutes, they arrived at the far side of the building and slid into their seats. More students began trickling in as the bell rang again, but no teacher showed up.

    Mr. Bell is notorious for being late to class, Luke leaned over and whispered to Kira.

    Oh, really? How is he still—

    Lukey, the girl that Luke had labeled as a misfit plopped down on top of his desk. She had waist-length, stick-straight black hair, and her eyes were impossibly blue, almost like ice. Hitting on the new girl already? Tsk tsk, you should let her get to know everyone before she’s forced to settle on you.

    Diana, Luke said tersely. I thought you graduated.

    She laughed, and her eyes flashed almost white as she stared at Luke. No, no. I’m quite content to stay in high school forever. And I had to wait for my boys.

    At their mention, the three boys who had been with Diana outside now walked into the classroom. Instantly Kira felt on edge, as though there was something else going on here that she was not privy to but was somehow part of. The look on Luke’s face was strained. Something was happening between him and the others that no one else in the classroom but Kira could feel. She heard laughter and saw students hugging friends they hadn’t seen in a while, but in the back of the classroom, there remained only the tension of a rubber band about to snap.

    Jerome, Tristan, John, Luke said each name with a stiff nod. They circled around him.

    Kira lost interest in the strained conversation and instead studied the newcomers. Jerome had black skin that miraculously seemed pale and the same steel blue eyes. He was built like a football player, like a running back who was speedy yet surprisingly strong. John had sandy blond hair, shaved close to his head, with a thin and streamlined build.

    Finally, she looked at the guy Luke had called Tristan. He seemed different to her somehow, with jet-black hair that hung over his eyes a little and barely visible dimples that played on his cheeks. His eyes were also an icy blue, but they seemed deeper to her, like steep ravines she could fall into. He stayed out of the conversation, she noticed, as if lost in his own thoughts—ones that seemed more troublesome than the cutting remarks being doled out by his friends. He had a rebel without a cause look that made him perilous for a girl’s heart.

    Suddenly, he turned to Kira. His eyes brightened a shade when they landed on hers, staring. And Kira, who was never one to back down, returned his look with interest.

    Who are you? he asked in a barely audible voice filled with surprise, one just loud enough to attract the attention of his friends and Luke. Kira melted at the sound. He was dangerous she knew, but something about him made her feel safe and afraid at the same time.

    Kira, was all she could respond with. They both looked at each other, trying to unlock the other’s secrets.

    His friends came to circle her now, and she instantly felt cornered. Fear sparked in her heart, a quick flash of lightning. She didn’t quite understand the nerves, but she also couldn’t shake them.

    Well, what have we here? Diana leaned in to really look at her, and Kira thought she read shock on the girl’s face despite the confidence in her voice. Tristan laid a hand on Diana’s arm, almost like a warning.

    Diana, back off, Luke said and tried to come to Kira’s rescue, but it was Mr. Bell who saved her by running into the classroom very late and very out of breath.

    All right, simmer down people, I just lost track of time in the teacher’s lounge. Welcome to Advanced English, I expect everyone’s full attention for the entire first half of the year, and then after winter break, those of you who are college bound can do some slacking.

    A general cheer went up around the room. Even Kira, who didn’t really know how to slack off, let out

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