She wasn’t sure she wanted to have things in common with someone who acted like such a brat. “I don’t think she has time for another friend. She’s always busy with Maruca.” He frowned. Before she could think of anything else to say, Lady Alexine delivered her prize, a small golden square with an intricate P etched on the top. “Any Level Two who holds her own against Thane is the clear winner,” she explained. “Congratulations, Irrissa.” “Thank you.” She peeked at Thane to see if he looked bothered. He grinned. “I couldn’t agree more.” But his smile faded after Lady Alexine left. “You really don’t know what happened during the match?” “I . . . don’t know. I do remember pushing some energy from my mind,” she whispered, afraid to look at him. “But that couldn’t have been a brain push, cou

