Reclaimed (The Phoenix Chronicles Book 1) by Erica Ortega Read Free Book Online Page A

day.”
    He narrowed his eyes. “You don't know anything about this world. We rescued you from being killed.”
    “I didn't ask for that. And even when the police got me you guys still came after me.” She held her thumb and finger just slightly apart. “Seems like you guys have some big expectations for me when there’s only a tiny chance I could be staying.”
    Summer watched as Ash clenched his jaw and ran a hand down his face. If she had to take a guess she would say that it took a lot to get Ash irritated. She found just a small amount of joy in being able to do that.
    “Listen,” he said, his purple eyes darkening. “I was ordered to bring you here. Now I'm ordered to show you around. After that I don't care what happens. You can leave, you can stay. It really doesn't matter.”
    Summer snapped to attention next to him. “Yes sir!” She grinned as he let out a frustrated growl. “And to think, we could have been best friends.”
    Ash didn't say another word. He led them to the back of the building and out a small door. Summer gasped. Below them were rows upon rows of greenhouses. All were exploding with the vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables. Some even had exotic flowers that she had never seen before.
    She spotted Tracy who was carefully burning the grass around the greenhouses. She happened to look up and waved at an approaching Summer.
    “At least someone is nice to me,” said Summer.
    She practically tumbled down the hill until she was standing in front of Tracy. “What are you doing?”
    “Burning some weeds. I'm not supposed to but, it’s fun.” Tracy wiped the sweat off her forehead with the back of her hand. “Ash looks extra pissed off.”
    Summer shrugged. “I asked him why I needed a babysitter.”
    Tracy rolled her eyes but, didn't say anything as Ash approached. He shoved his hands in his pockets and angrily glanced around the field.
    “What else are you going to show her?” Asked Tracy.
    Ash continued to look around the field. “Nothing. She saw all the major parts. Everything else she can find on her own.” He finally looked at Summer. “Do you want to stay here or go back to your room.”
    She stretched her arms and slowly moved her neck. “I'm still sore. Sleep sounds good.”
    Ash nodded once and started climbing back up the hill. Summer had no choice but to wave a quick goodbye and try her best to chase after him. Once she caught up her legs were on fire. She glared daggers at his head which he successfully ignored.
    “You're training with us tomorrow,” said Ash.
    “Does that mean I passed the test?”
    “You could have done better. Maybe if you stay then you will.”
    Summer clicked her tongue. “Gee, thanks for the encouragement.”
    They continued in silence until they got to the fire wielders room. Ash opened the door and surprised Summer by stepping inside after her. The door slammed shut as he stared at her with folded arms.
    “What do you want?” She asked.
    “I'm not going to hurt you.”
    Summer moved slowly until her back was against a wall. “Okay but, that doesn't answer my question.”
    “Who are you?” asked Ash.
    “What?” She stared at him with a furrowed brow. “I'm...a girl?”
    “You really don't know a thing about your family?”
    Summer frowned. “I don't remember much. They died and then I was thrown around different foster homes until those guys started chasing me.”
    “That's it?”
    “I had a cat named pickle.” Summer scratched her head. “And a fish named baseball.”
    “Baseball?” Ash shook his head. “You really are clueless.”
    “Baseball is a great name. He was white with black-”
    Ash waved his hand. “I mean about all this.”
    “Of course I am.” She sat down on her bed. “The first thing I ever burned down was my foster family's piano. It was horrible and I cried. Then I ran before they could kick me out.” She held out her hands, opened them, and then closed them. “This sucks. I'm scared, I'm confused