Jasmine's POV
I didn't hesitate. My hand moved on its own.
The crack of my palm against his cheek rang through the cafeteria like a gunshot. Time seemed to freeze as every conversation died. Heads turned toward us from every table. Some students gasped. Others stared with wide eyes. Even Palmer stopped mid-sentence to gawk at the scene unfolding before him.
What had I done?
My palm burned from the impact, and I slowly lowered my trembling hand. I wanted nothing more than to vanish into thin air.
Jayden's face was turned to the side, a bright red handprint blooming across his cheek. When he slowly faced me again, his blue eyes blazed with fury and something darker. Something dangerous.
Terror twisted in my gut. I stammered, "J-Jayden, I didn't mean—"
He moved faster than I could blink. One second I was standing there apologizing, the next I was hoisted over his broad shoulder like a bag of grain. A startled cry escaped my lips as the world tilted upside down.
