Contents
Chapter 39
Overview
Wren reels from Fisher’s unexpected mind-reading and worries about the implications of his early, powerful manifestation. Seeking distraction, she joins Gray, Karra, Saint, and Mako for clash poker but bristles at Karra’s PDA, provoking an outburst. Gray confronts Wren afterward, calling out jealousy she refuses to admit, leaving tensions unresolved.
Summary
Wren reflects on her rare childhood ability to breach Uncle Jim’s mental shield and recognizes how extraordinary Fisher’s sudden mind-reading is, especially at six. Concerned about the power it implies, she considers telling Evlynne but decides to sleep on it.
Unable to reach Gray by comm, Wren finds Gray, Karra, Saint, and Mako playing clash poker for favors. Karra is openly draped over Gray, and Wren’s irritation mounts as they flirt through the game. The banter and delays escalate Wren’s frustration, and she finally snaps, criticizing their public displays. Embarrassed, she apologizes weakly and leaves.
Back in her quarters, Gray messages and comes to talk. Wren admits she’s on edge and apologizes for rudeness to Karra, but she suggests Karra might be overcompensating. Gray counters that Wren’s reaction looked like jealousy. Wren denies caring, insisting she isn’t jealous, while Gray says she’s lying—whether to him or to herself—and walks out.
The chapter ends with Wren alone, acknowledging nothing is resolved and her emotions remain dangerously close to the surface.
Who Appears
- Wren DarlingtonNarrator; worries about Fisher’s mind-reading, clashes over Karra’s PDA, denies jealousy when Gray confronts her.
- GrayPlays poker with friends; receives Karra’s attention; confronts Wren, accusing her of jealousy, and leaves frustrated.
- KarraOpenly affectionate with Gray during the game; target of Wren’s outburst; embarrassed by Wren’s remark.
- MakoCheerful teammate dealing cards; pushes the game along; provides comic relief.
- SaintPlays poker; senses tension and watches Wren’s reactions cautiously.
- FisherSix-year-old whose unexpected mind-reading alarms Wren and signals unusual power.