I instantly came back to reality when I heard Audrey’s laughter ring out.
“Oh, Frank,” she chimed as she brushed her perfectly manicured hand lightly against his arm. “She’s joking, right? I mean, look at her smooth skin. Katie’s never even been on a training field.”
Her words stung. I clenched my fists. My nails dug into my palms as I tried to keep my composure. Audrey's flawless face showed a fake look of innocence. Her tone made her intentions clear.
She was shaming me.
The warriors who had begun to gather snickered softly. Their amusement only fueled the fire rising in my chest. I straightened my posture as I forced myself to look confident even though my insides churned.
“I’m not joking,” I said firmly even though my voice wavered slightly. “I can fight.”
Audrey raised a delic
