Derek gasped. Cayden stepped forward. Vanessa laughed. And I blinked in surprise, unable to even comprehend what Roman had just said.
Suddenly, the whole room erupted into a buzz of murmurs. People gazed from me to Roman to Vanessa, who was boasting in her victory. I grasped the keychain tighter in my hand.
“You’re dismissed. For those of you who are now warriors, please stay behind for an additional meeting. We’ll take a five-minute break.” Roman walked out of the room, not sparing me a second glance.
Cayden shook his head and swore, following him.
This couldn’t be right. No … no, it couldn’t. Roman knew I was one of the best fighters here. There was no way he’d accept Vanessa over me. No f*****g way.
“Are you okay?” Derek asked, placing a hand on my shoulder.
I pressed my lips toge
