The Inheritance Games, #4
The Brothers Hawthorne
by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Contents
CHAPTER 23: JAMESON
Overview
Jameson and Avery receive the next stage of the Devil’s Mercy challenge: a formal invitation to the opera with a mysterious key. Before they go, Avery uses their “Tahiti” code to make Jameson admit the wager is not just a game to Jameson because Ian’s abandonment and manipulation have stirred a desire for recognition and control.
The chapter shifts the stakes inward, showing that Jameson’s pursuit of the challenge is tied to unresolved feelings about Ian as much as to thrill-seeking. Avery’s reassurance strengthens their partnership and grounds Jameson before the next move in the secret game.
Summary
Twelve hours after Jameson Hawthorne and Avery Grambs sign the Devil’s Mercy NDA, another black envelope arrives at their flat. Its platinum thread, black wax seal, and geometric emblem signal another step in the secretive wager. Inside, Jameson finds a black-and-silver invitation with an ornate gold key attached and tells Avery they are being sent to the opera.
As Avery dresses for the event, she asks Jameson to zip up her black gown. The intimate moment turns serious when Avery invokes “Tahiti,” their code word requiring complete honesty. Avery presses Jameson to admit that the wager matters to Jameson beyond the thrill of an impossible challenge.
Jameson initially frames the situation as a hidden world and a secret game, but Avery asks whether Ian is the real reason. Forced by their agreement to be honest, Jameson admits Ian is using them and that Jameson may still want to impress Ian, make Ian want him, and then be the one who walks away.
Avery responds by affirming Jameson’s worth, calling Jameson brilliant, devious, kind, and “everything.” Her words cut through Jameson’s defenses, especially the idea that Jameson is kind. The scene ends with Jameson zipping Avery’s dress and leaning back into their shared appetite for more, ready to continue the game.
Who Appears
- Jameson HawthorneReceives the opera invitation and admits Ian’s manipulation and absence affect his motives.
- Avery GrambsChallenges Jameson to be honest, then reassures Jameson of his worth and strength.