"I can handle a Vance nuisance," Emily said, looking directly at Edmund.
Her tone was warm, but firm.
"I appreciate you stepping in, Edmund. Truly. But I'm not a fragile, helpless maiden. You don't need to draw ice on every arrogant, high-horsed brat who speaks to me."
Edmund stiffened slightly, his jaw tightening before he gave a stiff, formal nod of his head. "He crossed a line. But... I get your point.
"Xander slouched over, throwing an arm around Edmund's shoulders, an invasion of personal space that made him glare, though he didn't physically shove him away.
"Listen to the lady, Iceberg. Save the dramatic frost walls for the combat grids. The Student Council is already on high alert for any funny business. They don't need you adding to their already substantial workload."
Samantha stepped closer to Emily as the group moved toward the dormitories.
The air between them felt different.
