The bell rang through another day at school.

Ender shut the door to his locker and grabbed his bag off the ground before walking into his first class of the day. Mrs. Anderson wasn't sitting at her desk at the front of the chalk board, which he didn't find odd because she was usually getting her cup of coffee before coming here. Ender knew the drill and he learned pretty quickly that every morning she liked yesterday's assignment to be handed in on time.

Ender already had the blue folder with his assignment inside in his hand. He placed the folder in the empty white bin then sat down at his desk near the window.

As usual, he was the first in class too. None of his classmates were here yet and it was because they were all busy talking to their friends near their lockers.

Ender has been coming to this school for a while now but he hadn't gotten close to anyone. Too many of them kept asking questions about him, he didn't blame them because that was the only way to get to know him. Except, no one should know about his past, so he stayed away from others rather than opening up about things that would give them nightmares. He doubted they would even want to know about the gruesome details of his past.

The other kids that came with him from Zero's sanctuary were here too, but they were in other classes and grades. Darren and Tyler who worked at the sanctuary worked at this school now too. Darren took the position as the Head Councillor and Tyler was the gym teacher. They seemed to be doing well and they adapted pretty quickly to the new school. Not that they had any choice when their last home was burned down to ashes and they lost everyone and everything.

A dark pit sank in his gut.

A bunch of vile men attacked Maya's Sanctuary and kidnapped him with a bunch of other slaves. However, that wasn't the worst part. Those men destroyed that sanctuary and everyone died, including Diego and Hagen, the ones that he considered friends. They all perished and it hadn't sunk in that he lost them. He really didn't like thinking about that day. That memory was far too fresh, it still bled when he thought about Diego and Hagen and the others.

Ender turned his head away from those memories otherwise a whole day could go by. Whenever he was at school, he concentrated on the class. He worked and studied in his spare time and if he wasn't at home reading then he was at the library studying. He never told anyone but he liked doing homework and writing up assignments because he wasn't able to do them before. In the cages, he rarely read books and he never got the chance to hold a pencil longer than a few seconds. He took every opportunity now to learn everything he could here, soaking it all into him and not wasting a moment. Centauri Institute was the one place Ender felt... safe.

The second bell rang and now students started to move to get to their class. Ender was acutely aware of the door and the hallway with bustling students. He distracted himself and took out his books and pencil from his bag.

A few girls strolled inside the class laughing at a joke or whatever people laughed at nowadays. They sat down in their seats, and as they took out their books they continued to gossip away. More kids entered and the noise grew in the class, the momentary peace had left and Ender was overwhelmed by them all. He shifted his eyes away from the class and outside to the snow-covered fields.

He remembered snow very differently when he was in a cage. Now, the rooms were warm wherever he went and he never worried that his toes would fall off. In the cage, the weather was the second enemy because it would either kill them in the cold or heat.

Right now, the whole field and forest was packed with large hills of snow and no one seemed concerned. Everyone that lived around the pack in their cabins had shovelled paths to move around freely. There were a bunch of snow structures built on the fields too, which Ender saw kids hiding behind to throw snow at each other. He'd never done that before and honestly it looked a little fun. Maybe, he could go build something himself.

Suddenly, the ruckus grew when a bunch of boys bombarded into the classroom.

Ender's entire body stiffened in his seat. This was the one thing he didn't like about school. These boys thought they owned the halls of this place. They got into everyone's business and made it their duty to know everything about everyone. Ender read about it in a book, it was their way of making friends. Not that it mattered, he stayed away from them and they did the same.

However, the one boy that everyone was friends with strode into the classroom last. His red bag hung over one shoulder and he wore a black hoodie with jeans. He had a cocky grin and wicked grey eyes which was always observant of everyone around him. He had dark hair and it was ruffled around his eyes like he'd just gotten out of bed.

Jaxx Grayson went around the room and took his seat, which so happened to be right next to Ender and it was frustrating. Whenever Ender wanted to concentrate or do work, Jaxx was busy chatting to his friends. Ender really didn't know how to understand them, he felt like he was on the other side of the line unable to cross it and reach them. Diego would have no problem making them his friends, frankly the whole class would've loved Diego.

Mrs. Anderson arrived and Ender was glad because his mood had gotten scary.

"Good morning, kids," she greeted. She was a simple woman with brown hair and dark eyes that hid behind silver spectacles.

"Good morning, Mrs. Anderson!" They shouted back.

She went straight to the homework bin. Many of the students winced and tried to hide behind their school bags because it was clear they hadn't done the work.

"As expected, Ender's always the first," Mrs. Anderson praised lifting his assignment in her hand.

"That's because he's smart," announced Jaxx with a smug grin and locking eyes with Ender.

Ender wanted to hide.

"Is that your way of telling me that you don't have your assignment, Jaxx," remarked Mrs. Anderson.

"Nope, this time I do have it," he told her and his friends laughed in shock. Usually, Jaxx and his friends ditched their school work and played outside.

He got up with the rest of the students who handed in their work too. Jaxx sat down beside Ender and it was obvious when he was staring at his way. Ender could feel those torrent grey eyes all the time. He knew Jaxx didn't like him, so he didn't have to fake being nice.

Ender kept his eyes averted and focused on the papers open on his desk.

Mrs. Anderson took attendance and then class began. They were doing a novel study and she read them a few chapters as they took notes and studied the plot. Ender found it pretty easy to follow along and make notes. He had already finished the book a few days ago and was just reading along with the class. He didn't know why but there was something comforting about a quiet room and Mrs. Anderson's calm voice narrating Speaker for the Dead to them.

Ender followed along in his head as she read to them. They reached the twelfth chapter when Mrs. Anderson shut the book and laid it down. He wanted her to continue, it was getting to the good part. But he looked up at the clock and knew that class would end and the bell was about to go off for second period.

"Okay, that's all for today," she said. "I want you to read chapter 13 and 14 for tomorrow. There will be a pop quiz on them."

The kids groaned, but Ender already read it all and would gladly take any quiz on.

"So, read the chapters," said Mrs. Anderson while hearing them complain.

Ender had already packed his bag and headed to the front of the door to leave. Kids gathered behind him and discussed their next class together. Ender looked at the clock watching the second's hand tick away and finally the bell rang.

Ender was already out of class and heading towards the staircase.

"Ender!" a voice shouted behind him.

But he must have been mistaken, no one ever called for him. He didn't bother looking back and kept on walking while the halls were fairly empty. He didn't like walking through the crowds. He reached the science lab and he sat down at the far desk near the window again. He climbed onto the tall stool and faced the large white board and the many displays and microscopes.

Ender took out his science textbook onto the table. He remembered that today they would take notes on the functions of wolf anatomy and their health. Other students ambled in and took their seats. They knew the same and took out their textbooks too.

Ender relaxed in his seat because he didn't share it with anyone. However, when a figure loomed beside him, he looked up with confusion written all over his face. Jaxx Grayson stood there with an irked expression.

"I called you," he said. "Why'd you run off like that?"

Ender looked around himself and really wondered if Jaxx was actually talking to him or not. And since he was sitting on his own, it was quite clear that Jaxx was glaring at Ender alone.

"When did you call me?" Ender asked.

"In the hallway," Jaxx aspirated. "You walk fast for a shorty."

Ender frowned. "What do you want?"

"I need to talk to you," he said.

"You're talking to me right now," he retorted.

Jaxx lifted a brow and his jaw grew rigid. "After school meet me by my locker," he said and then walked off to his seat before Ender could tell him that he didn't know where his locker was.

Mr. Taylor walked into the classroom by then with his arm full with textbooks and his large smoothie mug in his other hand. He was a tall man with bronzed skin and black hair with the purest green eyes.

"Turn to page one hundred and sixty-four," he announced as he put his stuff down. He was fast on his feet as he closed all the blinds and turned the lights off.

He flipped the switch and on the large white screen a slideshow started to play. Mr. Taylor was always concise with his notes, nothing was overly packed with information and it was easy for Ender to follow along. He took his notes quickly and many student asked questions while Mr. Taylor explained each part of a wolf's transition.

Ender wondered if he should ask about dormant wolves and how to unlock them. He couldn't gather the courage and stayed quiet in his seat. He never told anyone, but Ender never talked to his wolf or felt him. Sometimes Ender really wondered if he had one or not. Another thing that was abnormal about him was added to the long list.

Class continued like normal and it ended with Mr. Taylor assigning their homework. Ender put the loose papers into his textbook before he closed it and carried it in his arm before he left class. He decided he would go to the library to finish his work before he went home.

Ender climbed back down the stairs and went to third period which was art class. Mrs. Janica was a short woman with white hair cut to her jaw. She wore it in that style well and her blue eyes were surrounded by a crease of wrinkles. She was older than the other teachers, but she moved faster than all of them. Mrs. Janica was a busy bee who taught her art classes with every ounce of excitement she had.

She was already in her class behind her small desk that was covered with projects and posters and other art supplies. All the walls in the class were covered with student art and her own. There were three racks onto side that held all the paintings so they could dry properly.

"Hi, Mrs. Janica," Ender greeted her.

His teacher beamed up at him. "Hello, Ender," she said. "How are you?"

"Better now that I'm here, ma'am," he replied and she smiled.

Ender put his bag down next to his seat and went to grab his project. His class wasn't painting, they were making cookie jars out of clay. Ender lifted his round jar off the table that was wrapped in clear plastic so it wouldn't dry up before he was finished. He went to his seat and got busy with his work.

By that time, other kids entered and greeted Mrs. Janica too. They all sat down at the large tables to get busy with the clay in their hands.

Ender didn't know where time went in this class. He had just finished making the lid to his jar when Mrs. Janica told them to clean up their stations. Ender grabbed fresh clear plastic and wrapped his jar and lid again. He put the extra clay he had inside his jar for tomorrow before he went to wash his hands.

It was twelve thirty now and that meant it was lunch time. No one walked down the halls in a rush since they all headed down to the cafeteria. Ender went to his locker to grab his jacket because everyone was sitting in the cafeteria today. Usually, when it was warm all the students would be outside and Ender could have a small spot to himself. Not today, it was cold and they all stayed inside which meant Ender had to go to his other spot. He put his bag in his locker too grabbing his lunch box and his book.

He left through the back door near the music room where no one went. He opened the door and put a small rock to keep the door from locking him out. He took a seat on the clean step and opened his book to chapter thirteen as he grabbed the sandwich from his bag. He read and ate with the slight wind keeping him company.

He quickly finished off the sandwich and juice-box and didn't realize how hungry he actually was until now. He dusted off his hand on his pants and put his stuff back in his bag.

Suddenly, the door opened behind and Ender jolted to his feet.

Darren stood in front of him just as surprised. "Sorry, I saw the door open so I wanted to check what it was. Did I disturb you?"

"Er- no," said Ender. "I was just reading."

Darren came out of the doorway. He had light brown hair and blue eyes that matched his sweater and jeans. Before it was burned down, he was in charge of the Zero's sanctuary with a bunch of other volunteers. Ender wasn't really close to him, they only exchanged a few words back then. But ever since they moved here, they were the only ones who remember their home so they had no one else to talk to.

One of the strange things about Darren was that the was also part of the cage fights. He never hid his past about it, like Ender did. Darren even wore his slave marks proudly; his neck was revealed and the heinous scar around his throat greeted people before his eyes or smile would. Ender never understood that about him when Ender covered his own marks.

"How were your classes today?" Darren asked.

"Fine," he answered.

"Getting along with your classmates?"

Ender didn't talk to anyone to get along with them. "I guess," he told him.

Darren watched him for a while before he said anything else. "Don't stay out here too long. You don't want to catch a cold."

Ender nodded. "Okay," he muttered. "Darren-" his voice spoke before he could stop it. He looked at him waiting for him to continue. "Your marks," he said. "Why do you show them?"

Darren's smiled rather than getting upset. "Why wouldn't I?" he said. "What's wrong with them?"

Ender's felt his heart squeeze. "People will see them and know about that place," he admitted.

Darren nodded. "It doesn't matter what people see and think," he said. "I know what my marks really mean."

Ender felt the neck of his sweater tightening around his own throat.

"It's not our fault what happened to us, Ender," said Darren. "You know that, right?"

Did he? thought Ender. He watched people being killed around him every day and didn't do anything about it.

"Our marks are a symbol of our past in cages, but they are also a sign that we escaped that place," said Darren. "It connects all of us who were chained."

Ender looked up at Darren. "I don't want to be ashamed but-" he admitted and meant it too, but he just didn't know how to overcome it all. The surge of memories and the scornful gazes he got.

Darren smiled at him. "Let people think what they want," he said.

"I think they will do that regardless of my efforts," Ender remarked.

"So, why ruin our day because of that?" said Darren. "We worked hard to be free, don't let them chain you down again."

Ender revealed a smile. "I- I will try," he professed cheerily.

"Good," said Darren.

Darren left and soon after lunch ended.

Ender went to his next class with a little smile on his lips. He was sure he surprised his teacher when he walked in because she was staring at him. Ender walked in to his seat and Darren's words replayed in his head the whole hour and a half...

The bell went off and Ender was out of the last class of the day.

School ended and the students were heading back to their cabins. Some teachers stayed to finish up marking work or preparing for tomorrow. Ender didn't go to his locker and went over to the library to finish his homework and return his old books to get new ones.

Ender turned the corner to cross the last corridor, when suddenly, a figure appeared in front of him and he almost slammed into it. He tripped on his own two feet in order to stop himself from touching them.

"What the hell," he grumbled and looked up only to see those grey eyes again. Jaxx stood there with a bemused expression.

"You shouldn't walk with your head down."

Seriously, trouble followed this guy, thought Ender.

"You didn't come to my locker," Jaxx alleged.

Ender totally forgot about that and; "I don't know where it is," he said.

Jaxx tilted his head and stared at Ender like he had three heads. "It's been at the same spot since you got here," he said and that confused Ender more. "My locker's right across from yours."

Ender didn't know that because Jaxx always came to school a lot later than him and left before Ender too. There was no need to pay attention to his surroundings either.

"Whatever. Are you busy?" Jaxx asked.

"I'm going to the library," answered Ender and it didn't seem like Jaxx understood that that did mean he was busy.

"Can you help me out?" asked Jaxx with that charmed smile of his.

Ender didn't where to look because his eyes were a bit too invasive and his smile was getting annoying. So, he looked at Jaxx's black piercings, which was a stupid idea too since they glinted with the same dangerous charm as Jaxx's eyes.

"My mom took my PlayStation and won't return it until I get better grades," he told him.

Ender's mouth almost dropped open. "You- you want me to help you study?" he astounded.

"You're the smartest person I know, so yeah, help me study," said Jaxx.

Ender didn't know what to say. "Why can't you ask one of your friends?" he asked.

Jaxx's amusement fell. "Aren't we friends?" he genuinely looked surprised. "We're in the same class."

Ender didn't know either. "Er- but I'm going to the library," he said.

"That's fine, I'll come with you," said Jaxx.

Ender moved around him and oddly enough Jaxx was being serious. He did follow him into the library. Since mostly the seniors came to the library, it was fairly empty. Ender went to the long table at the front where no one went. It wasn't a surprise, when people in the library recognized Jaxx and started greeting him. He would greet them back and Ender was convinced that he'd leave and join them. But Jaxx continued to walk beside Ender and they both sat down at the long oak table.

The Centauri library was the biggest sector of the school apart from the cafeteria and gym. It was a massive enclave made from a dark oak wood with multiple chandeliers. Ender had never seen such extravagant walls and lights anywhere. The ceiling looked as if it was shifting and floating with diamonds glittering down on them. There were shelves taller than the walls all the way up to the ceiling and ladders on each one of them. Teachers always brought their class here to read in the small cozy nook at the front.

Everyone occupied the large oak table benches that had lamps at every seat, so kids could study all day or night. And apparently the library was run by students in the past, not anymore though. Bone was the librarian who had completely taken over and organized this place like never before.

Dressed in his tailored suit, he walked around putting books in alphabetical order in the shelves and marking them down on a clipboard. He was quite thorough and bewilderingly fast. Students greeted him and he would always reply cheerfully. Ender liked Bone; he was kind and he never looked at him with questions in his eyes. Bone was Bone.

"Do you do this a lot?" Jaxx suddenly said.

Ender looked to his side at him. "What?" he said.

"Space out, ignore people, not talk," Jaxx listed.

Ender sighed. "Only when I'm bored," he said with the bit of mockery.

Jaxx was stunned but moments later he laughed. "You know what, I like you," he declared out of nowhere. "Alright, now help me get my games back." He smacked his bag on the table and pulled out all his books and papers.

Ender really didn't think he'd have them with him, which was a surprise. "What do you need help with?"

"Let's start with science," Jaxx added with a groan. He took out the diagrams of a wolf body and organs. Mr. Taylor gave this as an in-class assignment to fill out without using the textbook tomorrow. This diagram was blank however and all that was written was his name with a little symbol that Ender didn't recognize.

"What don't you understand?" said Ender.

"How do you remember all the little details?" Jaxx asked.

Ender really didn't know how to explain that. He was used to gathering little details about people, places and wolves; it helped him survive.

"I don't know," he muttered.

Jaxx and Ender both kind of slumped back in their seats not knowing what to do already and they just begun.

"What's that?" Ender pointed to the symbol by his name.

"It's the marker for my game," he said. "You ever play Destiny?"

Ender shook his head.

"It's the best, I'll let you play with me after my mom stops being annoying," Jaxx grumbled.

He remembered this complicated symbol but not a wolf diagram. Ender leaned in and took out his textbook putting it wide open in front of Jaxx. The large wolf was smack in the middle with a bunch of arrows and names describing each section.

"In your game, how do you know where to go?" asked Ender.

"There's a map," said Jaxx leaning in too.

"Study this like that map," said Ender, he put his finger in the corner of the first section. "Walk with the diagram and for every city in that game replace it with a wolf part." Jaxx nodded along. "Name a city in that game?"

"There's the Last City," said Jaxx.

"Does the city have any smaller towns?" asked Ender.

"Of course, there is," said Jaxx. "Anchor District, Botza District, Midtown, Riverside District, The Core-"

"Okay, that's good," said Ender. "Now, follow that with this diagram. Each town- or district is a label on this diagram- map."

Jaxx frowned and looked down at the textbook. "Okay, I see that," he said.

"What else do you have trouble with?" asked Ender.

"The book we're reading in Mrs. Anderson's class," said Jaxx. "How do you not fall asleep?"

Ender would've laughed at him, but he was genuinely confused by his concern. "It's a good book," he said.

Jaxx gaped at him. "I can't get through a single page," he said.

"Do you like reading?" asked Ender.

"This is the first time since the school year started that I'm in the library. What do you think?" Jaxx remarked.

"You like games though, I'm sure it requires the same level of attention," said Ender.

Jaxx raked his hair. "I'm doing missions in the game," he said. "Books aren't getting me anywhere."

Ender didn't see it like that. Books allowed him to go on a journey that he could never imagine for himself. The courage a character uses was something Ender thrived for in his own life. It was easier for him to connect with a character of a book rather than someone beside him.

"Your games have a story too," said Ender.

"They do, but it's a lot cooler and they have powers," said Jaxx.

"Our book gets really interesting after these next few chapters when the main character enters," said Ender.

Jaxx looked at him confused. "How do you know that?" he asked, but then he slowly smirked. "You read ahead."

Ender stiffened. "Er- well-" Jaxx was already laughing- "Don't tell anyone-"

"Jaxx, is that you?" a voice interrupted. It was Boyd from their anthropology class.

Jaxx looked back. "Hey guys," he said.

"What the hell are you doing in the library?" They astounded.

Ender turned away and looked at his books hoping they wouldn't notice him.

"Ender's helping me study," said Jaxx.

Ender gaped at him. Why the hell would he say that in front of his friends? he thought.

"Your mom threatened you again," said Boyd with a snicker.

"You know how scary she is," said Jaxx. "She unplugged my entire system while I was playing." The boys groaned around him and obviously felt the pain.

"How'd you get this guy to help you?" Sam asked.

"I just asked and he agreed," said Jaxx.

Ender could feel Jaxx's eyes on him and he wished he wouldn't do that. He wished Jaxx would get up and go with his friends, so they wouldn't notice Ender.

"This guy always tops our class," Boyd told Sam.

"Some people are just born different," said Sam with a sigh.

"Yeah, you barely learned to tie your shoelaces," Body said and they laughed.

"Doesn't Ender live with the Centauri's?" asked Sam.

The air in his throat choked Ender. He really didn't want to be here now.

"You never lived with them before," said Boyd. "Did you come from another pack or something?"

"That doesn't add up though," said Sam. "How'd he even end up living with the Centauri's? That's a big deal, dude."

"What are you doing with Klaus all the time?" asked Boyd.

Ender really didn't want them talking about Klaus. He did nothing wrong except give Ender a place in his home. Ender's felt his hands go clammy and a chill crawled down his entire body. He didn't know what to say or how. This is why he sat alone and away.

"He doesn't owe you any answers, so back off," said Jaxx sternly.

Boyd and Sam shared an irked look. "We were just curious," mumbled Sam.

"So, be curious in class, not here-" the kids froze.

"You gonna buzz off or what," said another.

Boyd and Sam ran off just the same way they came.

Ender looked behind him to find Dante and Leo standing with scary expressions.

Leo and Dante had graduated from Centauri Institute and were now university students. However, more than going to school they hung out here. Dante was taller than Leo and a lot more built, his silver hair was messy and under a black cap with a matching hoodie and gym bag slung over his shoulder. They could see his amber eyes from under the cap and as always was in a grim mood. However, next to Leo it was clear that Dante just appeared strict. Leo stood in a sweater and jeans, his light brunette hair was raked away from his handsome face and hazel eyes, that were kind and reminded Ender a lot of Klaus.

"Hey, guys," Leo greeted first. They both came around and took a seat.

"Shouldn't you be at school?" remarked Jaxx.

"We took the day off," answered Leo with a smug grin. "That's what happens when you get to college or university. You can skip class all you-" Leo let out a grunt and he glared at Dante- "what the hell! Why'd you hit me?"

"You're not supposed to tell them that," Dante said casually. He put his bag beside him and leaned back in the chair.

Leo rubbed the sore spot. "What about you?" he looked at Jaxx. "I don't think I've ever seen you in our holy library."

"What do you mean?" said Jaxx. "I love the library."

Leo and Dante shared a look that screamed that they didn't believe Jaxx. And it wasn't helpful that Jaxx had a gloomy expression when he said that.

"Only reason I came to the library was because of this guy," Leo pointed to Dante. "I hated every minute of it."

Dante rolled his eyes. "How are you holding up, Ender?" he asked.

Ender's felt his spin straighten the moment he heard his name. "I'm fine," he said and usually he would shut down around these situations. But Dante and Leo were cool and they never probed him.

"How's your mom?" Dante asked Jaxx next. "Is she still working at the job she hates?"

Jaxx shook his head. "She quit a few months ago and is working at another firm," he answered.

"Does she like this one?" Leo asked as he took Dante's water-bottle and chugged it until it was half done.

"She doesn't complain about this one as often and she made a few friends too," said Jaxx.

Ender didn't know that Jaxx's mom worked at a law firm. Well, it was obvious there was a lot that he didn't know about anyone here. Although, Leo and Dante knew about Jaxx and his mom when they barely met each other throughout the day. Was it normal to learn about each other in this pack? thought Ender. If it was then he had a long way to go. Ender did know one thing about Leo and Dante and it was that they loved Klaus and King. Any time they had the chance then they were together.

"Um- did you meet Klaus yet?" Ender speaking up surprised them, but they smiled that he had.

"We were just about to go," said Leo. "Is King home? We texted but he didn't answer?"

"He was still asleep before I left for school," said Ender.

Leo looked at Dante deviously. "Should we poke the sleeping bear- or wolf- in this case?" he jested.

"I'm sure he's awake, it's three in the afternoon," Dante hoped with a sigh.

Leo got up from his seat. "Alright, you two keep studying hard," he encouraged. "Come on, Dante. Let's go find our precious teacher and his irritating mate."

Ender found himself smiling. Those two really were special in the way the cherished each other and their bonds. They never spoke with any disrespect, which reminded Ender of what Darren told him earlier of having a good day no matter what others thought of you. Ender was sure that no one said anything about Leo and Dante, but even if they had, those two wouldn't be bothered. Was that courage and how was Ender supposed to find that.

"You can talk to them, but not me," Jaxx broke the silence.

Ender looked at his grey eyes. "What?"

"You looked comfortable with them even though they're older than us," said Jaxx.

Maybe, it was because Dante and Leo reminded Ender a lot of Klaus and King. He didn't know any other reason.

"It's because of Klaus," he told him.

Jaxx went quiet and grabbed the pencil off the book. "You know, when Boyd and Sam were asking you questions it wasn't to be mean. They're just curious- all of your classmates are," said Jaxx as he spun a pencil in his one hand.

Ender dropped his gaze to the books. "I don't see why it's important," he muttered.

He didn't know why everyone wanted to know about him, it wasn't that interesting. Besides, everyone was here when Zero brought them. So, Ender was sure they had their guesses. He'd let them stay as guesses until he was sure... of what- he didn't know that either.

"What else do you need help with?" Ender said diverting the tension.

"Math is pretty easy," said Jaxx.

"You like math," he astounded.

Jaxx nodded. "It's easy once you understand the formulas," he explained. "Numbers don't change so teachers can't surprise you on tests."

Ender didn't think of it like that. "Well, if it's just Science and English that you are struggling with then you shouldn't worry, it's all pretty easy once you memorize it," he said.

Jaxx looked a bit surprised. "Did you just reassure me?" he said.

Ender's eyes widened. "N-no," he answered lamely. "Are you failing art class because that would be close to impossible?"

Jaxx laughed out loud surprising the kids behind them. "I actually happen to like art class and just so you know I am really good," he told him. "Mrs. Janica can attest to my great talent."

Ender shook his head. "I'll believe that if you pass Mr. Taylor's assignment tomorrow," he pushed the textbook in Jaxx's way.

An hour or two went by without either of them taking any notice. It was until, the sun had started to lower and the sky darkened that Ender grew a bit drowsy. He held his yawn in and water pooled in his eyes.

"We should probably leave now," Ender said.

Jaxx looked more than fine, he wasn't even dosing off which was strange. "You tired, shorty?" he jested.

"I'm not short," he muttered. Okay fine, he was shorter than Jaxx by a few inches. But everyone was shorter than Jaxx in their grade. "Why aren't you tired when this is your first time studying?" Ender asked.

"You never stayed up to play with a new DLC, did you?" said Jaxx. "Trust me, I can do all-nighters and still be fresh the next morning." Jaxx still closed his books though. He pushed back his dark hair and looked up at the clock.

Ender put his books away too. Both of them grabbed their bags and left the quiet library behind. The went down the empty hallways to their lockers to get their jackets. And to Ender's surprise, Jaxx's locker was right behind his. Ender pulled on his jacket and so did Jaxx. They both headed out the same door to the snowy path that was lit with tons of golden lights.

Ender started off towards the Centauri house. "Hey," Jaxx called from behind him. "Thanks for today. Sorry in advance if I was a bother."

Ender noticed the way Jaxx's smile reached his grey eyes, that were still as pure to colour even in the dark. "Don't apologize," he blurted out and then didn't know what to say after.

"I'll see you in class tomorrow then," said Jaxx.

"Yeah- um, yes," Ender stuttered and then sighed. "I'm bad at this." His shoulders slumped in defeat.

Jaxx let out a laugh and sniffed since it was a bit chilly out. "Yeah, you are," he said making Ender feel a lot worse. "Don't worry though, I'll help you out." Jaxx waved and walked off to the far cabin across the field.

Ender stood in his spot for another minute and wondered how the day went. He never thought that he would spend his afternoon with Jaxx Grayson of all people. He usually went on with his day by himself, but nothing ever went the way he thought it would. He should've learned that by now.

Ender went to the house only to find it strangely quiet. Everyone must still be at work if they weren't sitting around the kitchen. He took off his boots on the mat and closed the door making sure none of the cold entered for too long.

"Who is it?" a voice asked from the living-room.

Ender jolted in surprise. He thought he was alone but apparently not. "Er- it's me," he said that but then he realized no one would know without a name.

"Ender," it sounded like Sabrina's voice.

Ender went to the room where he found Sabrina sitting on the sofa with Gideon playing beside her.

"Thank god someone is here," Sabrina said. "I need to take a shower because this boy has been making me run around all day. Can you watch him for ten minutes?"

Ender hesitated because he was never left alone with Gideon. He didn't think anyone would want to either. "I'm- uh- I-"

"Thanks, you're the sweetest," Sabrina interrupted and ran off towards the stairs.

Ender put his bag down and took off his jacket. He went and joined Gideon on the couch. The small kid was dressed in a red and green sweater with matching pants. He had socks on and his dark hair was ruffled around his big blue eyes.

The boy struggled to get to his knees but he did and he didn't hesitate to gather himself onto Ender's lap. "Ender," Gideon mumbled out cutely.

"Hi, Gideon," Ender held the boy securely on his lap so he wouldn't slip off in the scuffle to get comfortable. Ender breathed in the warm scent of powder and milk. Gideon was warm to the touch too or maybe Ender was too cold.

There was a comforting thought from the way Gideon made Ender feel. There was no need for Ender to fake anything. He didn't have to be strong or calm or the worst be a liar about he truly felt.

"Gideon, I talked to people today and it didn't make me feel sick," he said. "Do you know who Jaxx is?"

Gideon looked up with clear blue eyes. "Jaxx?" he pronounced his 'x' like an 's'. It was really cute.

"He needed help studying," said Ender. "I don't know why he came to me of all people." Ender slumped into Gideon's warmth and sighed. "Is he going to talk to me tomorrow too? This is harder than it seemed."

Gideon wriggled off his lap onto the couch reaching over the ledge for the book on the counter. Ender got it for him and it was a Christmas book about a reindeer who had a red nose. Gideon laid down on his belly and Ender joined him too with the book out in front of him. Every time Ender finished a page Gideon had an urge to flip the page himself. Eventually, through the third page Ender noticed that Gideon had dozed off. Ender continued to softly read to him because he enjoyed the book too. He ended the book and felt himself giving in to the exhaustion in his eyes. Ender turned onto his side and made sure his arm blocked the corner, so if Gideon woke up he'd hit Ender awake before he tried to get off the couch and harm himself.

He didn't know when but he was lulled to sleep beside Gideon...

Kill or be killed was the way in the cages. If one was a slave then they had to forget they had any friends or family because they wouldn't help you in this hellhole.

The boy woke up in his cage with the loud alarm that announced that a fight would begin soon. He wished and prayed that he wouldn't get picked. He closed his eyes and held his cries in making sure not to make a single sound.

Suddenly, the door to his cage swung open and he was grabbed by his collar. He screamed and cried to be let go and that he didn't want to fight. However, these men didn't listen to him. They took him by his chains and threw him into the large arena where thousands of spectators were cheering and howling for a fight.

The boy was sweating but his skin was cold to the touch. He looked around the cage trying to see a way out but all he saw were the disgusting faces that were scarier than the Devil itself.

The cage door opened again and the boy jolted back when he saw a man a lot older than him being escorted inside.

"You want me to fight a kid?" The slave astounded to the cage dealer behind him.

"The audience pays for what they want to see and they want this," he answered.

The older slave went pale like he was going to be sick. He cursed under his breath and the door closed behind him locking them both inside.

"I'm sorry," he said to the boy.

"Are you going to kill me?" he asked but he knew the answer when the slave didn't answer. Maybe, this was for the better. Death seemed to be the only escape.

The boy got to his feet taking a stand even though it didn't matter. His face was wet from tears and his body ached from everywhere.

"I'll make it quick," said the slave fighter.

"That would be nice," said the boy. "Please, please, kill me, please-" his begging grew louder and so did the cheers outside the cage.

"Please, please-" Ender ripped his eyes open when a hand was felt on his arm. "Don't!" he shoved the hand away and didn't realize until he fell onto the floor where he was.

Ender's breath filled his own ears. His heart raced and his body trembled as he tried to forget what he saw and everything that tainted his dreams.

"Ender," it was Gabriel that was in front of him.

The large alpha loomed over Ender and he felt terror consume him. He didn't see Gabriel's gold eyes. He only saw his fear through them screaming back at him, that he was a weak wolf with nothing but impurity inside him.

"It's just me. Come on, come back to me, son," said Gabriel as he realized that Ender hadn't returned from his inside his head.

Ender struggled to his feet. He had to get away from him, but he couldn't find any strength as he noticed more of the faces around him. Everyone was standing around them, even Leo and Dante.

"I'm- I'm sorry," he tried his hardest not to cry, "I- I didn't-"

Suddenly, a pair of strong arms hoisted him off his feet and he was being taken away. Ender gave up and he held on as tightly as he could to the one who saved him.

"It's okay, you're safe," the voice said and Ender didn't recognize it, but he knew from the scent alone that it was King. He didn't know why, but he had the urge to wrap his arms around King and not let go. He was so scared of everything and he didn't know how to stop it.

It was sudden when the night air was cool to the skin. King took a seat on something with Ender on his lap. It was quiet now, but his ragged breath was all they heard.

"They probably think I'm crazy," he said.

"No, they don't," said King.

"I think I am," he admitted.

King put his hand protectively on Ender's head that was tucked in his neck. A while went by as King just held Ender in his arms and they both listened to the howl of the snow storm. The entire time Ender didn't feel King's hold on him loosen. He kept him against his warmth and strength that Ender found himself gripping onto dear life with.

"You know, this place was the second time I realized my feelings for Klaus," he broke the silence.

Ender heard that and tried to respond; "A garage?" he muttered and wasn't sure if King heard.

King chuckled however. "Yeah," he said. "I walked out of the house after feeling like you are now and then I saw Klaus here all by himself."

"How'd you know you loved him?" Ender asked.

"Are you kidding?" scoffed King. "The man took my breath away the moment I saw those eyes."

Ender found himself smiling a little to that. "I'm tired..." his voice trembled a little more again. "Why is it so hard to be normal?"

"Don't try to be anything, it'll only hurt you," said King. "Cry and scream if you need to, we're all here to help."

Ender's small body began to shake and King knew then that he had started to cry with all his heart. He didn't trap it inside himself, he couldn't when the one who held him gave him such comfort. How was it possible to remain strong in these arms? thought Ender.

A while went by, Ender didn't know how long to be honest. However, King's entire shirt was wet and ruined. He was sure King's shoulder and arms were sore for holding him.

"I ruined your shirt," said Ender, his voice groggy and his eyes felt heavy.

"Don't worry about it," said King. "You want to head inside now for dinner?"

Ender stiffened because they'll know that he cried and they'll know now that he got nightmares. What would he say to them about this? he pondered but had no answer.

"They won't say anything," King said like he read Ender's concern from his face. "I will punch whoever says a word. You can count on that."

Ender saw sincerity in those blue eyes. "Can I stay with you?" he asked.

"I wasn't going to let you go anywhere else," he replied. King got to his feet with Ender still in his arms.

Ender gasped. "You- you can put me down," he said.

King didn't listen and took him inside before he set him down on his bare feet, which was probably why he carried him from the garage. They returned to the house where everyone was getting ready for dinner. Ender lingered behind King and found the ounce of strength to follow him because doing this alone would've been a lot worse.

The kitchen was packed and Ender didn't look at any of the faces. Only from the voices he tracked everyone's location. Sabrina, Viola, Vincent, Ryder were sitting at the table while Hailey, Klaus and Bone were finishing up dinner. Leo, Dante, River, Gabriel and Hunter weren't in the room and King realized the same too, that's when he asked Klaus about it.

"Leo and Dante had to talk to Gabriel about something," said Klaus. "I don't know what it's about."

"I think I do," King sighed and kissed Klaus on the lips. He whispered something else and then started to talk to Bone.

Ender held onto King's hand a little tighter when the commotion grew around them. However, Ender was just glad that no one made what he had done the topic of conversation. Right now, the counter was blocking him from everyone's view but what about later. He wasn't even craving food now, he was sure anything he swallowed he'd get sick from it. Maybe, he should leave and not make their dinner uncomfortable.

Suddenly, Klaus bent down to his level. His green eyes glazed with a wet sheen, his cheeks flushed. "Would you like some chicken cobbler?" he asked.

Ender melted when he saw those warm eyes and forgot all else. "I don't know what that is," he revealed, his throat a little sore.

"It's my specialty," said Klaus.

Ender felt the ache in his chest lessen just an inch, like the heavy concrete crushing his lungs eased back from seeing Klaus's smile. "I'd love some," he found himself admitting.

Klaus held out his hand but froze and pulled back. "Sit down and I'll plate some for you," he said and got up facing King. "You too."

They all gathered in the dining room and by that time Leo, Dante and the others all returned too. Thankfully, they sat on the other side so they couldn't see Ender over King's broad frame. Every now and then Ender heard the conversation around the table. Sabrina talked about how Zoya invited them all tomorrow for lunch at her store. They all talked about the dinner the other day and Ender just remembered the lady who came over. She owned a wedding-dress store or something like that as Ender tried to recall.

"We're taking the kids on a trip soon," revealed Viola.

Ender's ears perked.

"Where?" Leo asked.

"Space centre," said Klaus cheerfully.

Ender looked up from his plate at Klaus who was grinning. "Space centre," he muttered.

"We want to go too!" demanded Leo.

Dante and Leo looked at Klaus, Hailey, Viola and Bone eagerly because they were all going to go on this little expedition.

"You aren't students here anymore though," said Klaus.

More than Leo, Dante looked mortified.

"We'll always be your students, Klaus," said Dante.

Klaus's heart melted and King was most amused. "Fine. But you aren't going as students. You'll be volunteers to help out the teachers. Is that clear? No funny business."

Leo and Dante celebrated with a smug chuckle and they even said that they were going to brag to their other friends who couldn't make it.

Ender looked at his plate. Space centre, he thought. He'd never been to one and he wondered what it would be like.

Dinner ended but dessert was brought in. Sabrina had been craving mint-chocolate chip ice cream all day, so Gabriel and River had brought large bins before coming over tonight. They moved from the dining-room over to the porch outside to watch the delicate snow fall around them, it piled itself on the smooth fields and on the bare branches of trees. Ender found himself enjoying the ice-cream as he sat on a rocking chair with his legs gathered in front of him. Surprisingly, it wasn't cold although the snow wasn't giving any sign of stopping soon. The sky was dark and the clouds were thick and rapidly shifting every second determining the next course of action- even the sky had no time to rest.

Everyone was sitting on their chairs and either playing cards or snuggling up with a blanket beside their mate. Bone was beating everyone at some card game that Ender was trying to figure out. The speed Bone played with was what tripped Vincent and Ryder the most. Ender even noticed that Bone had never bluffed his moves, so there was no way to tell if he'd attack or not. Ryder and Vincent were easy to figure out, even for Ender. However, it was River and Hunter that gave Bone a tougher time. And it was only Klaus that Bone lost to, but something told Ender that Bone lost on purpose because from where Ender sat he saw the trump cards in Bone's stack four times but he held them back.

Ender laid his head on his knee and watched all the people around him. There was something in him, an aching cry that begged the goddess to let him stay with this group. Don't let him separate from them. He didn't want any false hopes only to be dragged out of his bed again and taken for everyone to be killed. If the goddess was listening then he begged her to let him stay by Klaus and King's side.

Ender's eyes closed and he slipped away again...

Klaus saw the moment Ender had fallen asleep on the chair. He watched the small boy holding his own legs and using his knees as a pillow. His pale skin was brighter in the dark around him and his eyes were rimmed with a red from crying earlier, but some sleep would cure that. However, Klaus wondered how his soul would be cured.

Klaus looked out to the sky, he didn't see the moon but he felt it's presence just like he would Maya every night. He prayed to her that she'd bless Ender with healing like she had for Klaus. He didn't want that boy suffering anymore from the scars of his past that bore on his heart and body. He was young and this was the time for him to having fun, not waking up from the terror of his memories haunting him. How many would suffer like that until it was enough? he wondered.

A warm hand brushed against Klaus's cold cheek. He didn't need to see who it was before he leaned into the touch. He closed his eyes and his mate gathered him closer into his arms. Both of them warmed their bodies and it was enough for Klaus to hope again that it would get better.

"Are you cold?" King whispered.

Klaus shook his head as he snuggled closer. He didn't want to say anything, he didn't need to say that he didn't want Ender to grow up like Klaus or King had. Always afraid that life was against them and that they were stuck in a dark hole alone. Was there an end to this, Maya? he wondered.

King's fingers inched around the nape of his neck and started to knead the tension coiled at the base of his head. Instantly, an ease climbed into him and he melted at the firm but gentle touch.

"That feels good," Klaus mumbled.

King continued for who knows how long. "You're worrying too much," Klaus stiffened and King felt it right away. "Shhh-" his tender voice caressed Klaus's ear- "it's just us." His hot scent drowned Klaus and brought him to King's world. It really was just them and that Klaus forget everything that troubled him.

"I love you," Klaus whispered.

King grew rigid this time. He let out a soft growl before he used his teeth to bite Klaus's ear. Thankfully, they were sitting behind everyone so they didn't see Klaus's embarrassing blushing face.

Klaus held his ear. "What was that for?" he asked.

King's wicked blue eyes stared at him with that scheming expression. "You know exactly what it's for," his voice was low and deep.

"So, I can't tell you that I love you without you overreacting?" rebuked Klaus.

King raised a brow and the amusement fell, it made Klaus nervous even after being mated for so long. He drew in a deep breath and got to his feet. "We're going to bed," he announced to everyone.

"Goodnight," they all replied and didn't even realize what had happened.

Klaus's heart skipped a beat. "Er- but I have to get Ender," he tried to divert his mate's attention, but that excuse didn't work.

"Bone-" the man looked up at the mention of his name- "can you put Ender to bed?" King's eyes hadn't moved from Klaus.

Bone was already on his feet beside Ender picking him off the chair and heading inside. King grabbed Klaus's hand and took him inside too, they went up the stairs and to their room.

The door had only opened when King pulled Klaus inside and pushed him against the door slamming it shut.

"King-" Klaus's lips locked before he let out another word.

King's hot mouth moved over his passionately. There was nothing gentle or forgiving from the way his smooth tongue pushed through and deepened the kiss. Klaus's hands griped onto King's biceps and his knees weakened from all the hardness pressed against him. There was nothing soft about King's body but Klaus never felt more comfortable. King put his strong thigh between his legs and held him against the hard door. He continued to kiss him and it was erasing all reason inside Klaus to remain calm.

King pulled away and left Klaus gasping for air, like he had poured cold water onto the fire that ignited inside Klaus.

"Every time I make you come, you're going to say that you love me and you'll count it," King growled.

"That's not fair," Klaus protested.

King brushed away the hair around Klaus's eyes. "Baby, when are you going to learn that nothing's fair in love and war," his hungry eyes dropped from Klaus's lips to his neck.

Klaus frowned. "Is this love or war?" he asked.

King leaned in while leaving a trail of kisses down Klaus's neck. "Both," his body grew rigid when his voice sent a chill down Klaus.

Suddenly, the tension shifted in the air. Klaus felt the dark pheromones radiate off of King and he knew now there was no turning back or talking reason into his mate. The sweet man had left and his dangerous wolf appeared. Klaus braced when King sucked on the pulsing nerve on Klaus's throat, his legs failed to keep him on his feet, but King held him as he stripped off his pants letting them fall at their feet.

"King," he moaned pleadingly hoping that he could stop him, but it just drove him crazier.

His rough hand gripped tightly around Klaus's shaft and stroked until he felt his body drown with ecstasy. There was no way to escape the wave that grew inside him and coiled tightly around his abdomen. Klaus's body was trained to the point that any touch from King aroused him and right the floodgates had burst open.

King kissed Klaus's throat, his lips lingering over his hammering pulse which gave it all away. Klaus felt the way King's smirked and enjoyed this more and more.

"Are you going to come?" asked King.

"No," he grumbled back wanting more than anything to bite King out of anger or love- he couldn't tell right now.

King looked up into his eyes, that deep blue gaze was unbearable to withstand. Klaus looked away and that made King laugh hungrily because he knew Klaus lied.

"Your body's more honest than you, Klaus," said King as his hand tightened around his cock. Klaus gasped out a moan and he tried not to but it was impossible.

Suddenly, Klaus heard voices behind him and his heart dropped. He tried to stop King, but the man was relentless. He grabbed both of Klaus's wrists pinning them above him within his sturdy lock. Of course, he didn't grace Klaus mercy.

"Better be quiet, otherwise they'll hear that I'm fucking you," King bemused.

Klaus bit his bottom lip as hard as he could that it hurt painfully. "Stop, King, please," he pleaded.

"Why... when it's just getting to the good part," his penetrating voice slithered down his body to his throbbing erection.

King stroked relentlessly letting Klaus release violently. His legs went weak and he dropped to his knees trying to control his ragged breath from what just happened.

The voices behind them vanished and Klaus glared up at his mate. "You're so mean," he cried out.

King stripped off his shirt revealing his dark tattoos and his chest that was roped with muscle. "That's not what I want to hear, Klaus," his honeyed voice sent a chill down Klaus.

He really didn't want to say it... but... there was no other way. "I love you," Klaus gave in. King licked his lip staring cockily down at Klaus. "One," he added then.

King smirked as he loomed over him with his dark intentions. "Good boy."

Once again, the rush climbed up with all the control in King's hand. Klaus didn't know how long passed with this cycle possessing both of them into black depths full with dark passion.