Almost Demon (The Sigil Cycle) by AJ Salem Read Free Book Online

same seat as yesterday.
    “One sec. Got it.” I held my ballpoint up in glee and ran my gaze from the tip of his black Chuck Taylors, over his fitted black cargos, to the waffle knit Henley until I reached those charming eyes. They’re greener today .
    “Good afternoon, class.” Mr. Flynn marched into the classroom, satchel tucked under his arm, wearing white tennis shoes with dark wash jeans. Eek . “Today, we will begin our unit on Lies and Deceit with Hamlet .” He walked over to the closet at the far end of the room and pulled out three stacks of paperback editions of Shakespeare’s classic. “Allison, will you please help me distribute the books.”
    “My pleasure, Mr. Flynn.” I could have sworn I heard her purr like a cat.
    With the class busy, I leaned over to Ian and said, “About yesterday.”
    “What about it?” he said looking like he had just eaten the canary.
    “Well,” I was grasping for the right words, “what exactly was all that?”
    He slid his desk closer to mine until I was able to make out the slight stubble on his jaw that trailed down his neck and smell the intoxicating scent that clung to him like second skin.
    “You didn’t seem eager to talk afterwards. I could only assume you weren’t too impressed.” He was still smiling, the only indication that I shouldn’t take him seriously.
    “Well, I was waiting for you to ditch the surfer look. I’m finding this ‘you’ a bit more irresistible.” Did that just come out of my mouth?
    His laughter was melodic but contained. “I’m more than willing to catch up later.”
    I groaned at my own disappointment. “I can’t. I promised Mr. Flynn I would join his book club. For extra credit. I kind of need it, just in case.”
    “In case of what?”
    “I fail my tests miserably.” 
    Just then, Mr. Flynn rapped on his white board with a long metallic pointer and pulled up a series of slides. “These are your notes,” he said in a militaristic tone. “Please copy them from the board. These are the only notes I want you taking. When everyone is finished, I expect your full attention. Then I will regale you with many fascinating facts about William Shakespeare.”
    The lecture ended up being more interesting than anticipated. Listening to his accent could have been the reason why Mr. Flynn had everyone enraptured, or his captivating theatrics. Nevertheless, time flew by and before long, the bell rang, signaling the end of the day.
    “Here’s my number.” Ian slipped a scrap of paper into my tote and went for the door.
    Allison was on his heels in moments. I watched as she shoved her way passed a few people just to get to him and then proceeded to paw at his arms. The look on his face remained benign in spite of the effort she was making, so I couldn’t tell if he was interested in her or not. 
    My heart fluttered when he looked me in the eyes. And it just as quickly deflated when he nodded to Allison and let her lead him away.
    “So, Miss Pope, are you ready for your first lesson?” I turned to Mr. Flynn’s voice, who had taken Ian’s place beside me. The class had quickly emptied out.
    “Yes, I am.” At least I hope so .

 
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
    C HAPTER S IX

     
     
    The so-called book club was noticeably lacking membership. Mr. Flynn and I were the only ones who stayed after class and my apprehension was evident.
    “No worries. I can’t be teaching you the secrets of the universe with an audience. I postponed it due to a scheduling conflict.” He added air quotes.
    “So, these secrets. How do you know about them?”
    “You can consider me an expert of sorts.” He stiffened his spine, unbuttoned his blazer to reveal his retro batman t-shirt and took on a boyish appearance with his goofy smile.
    “Let’s have it then.” I was in the mood for a challenge.
    “First things first. Let me allay your fears and tell you that the things you’ve seen lurking about are not a figment of your