Chapter 15: The Power play

Kara grabbed the doorknob, but no matter how hard she twisted, the door wouldn't budge. Confusion flashed across her face. She could've sworn her mom and Oron had just walked through it with no problem.

She turned to glare at Rox over her shoulder, frustration bubbling. He stood there, his eyes locked on hers, exuding calm authority.

"I said, get on your knees and beg. Now."

Her body moved before her mind could register it, like a puppet on strings. She took five steps back, turned to face him, and sank to her knees.

Looking up at him with wide, exaggerated puppy dog eyes, she clasped her hands together. "Please, Rox. Take me to school. Please."

Rox's grin spread across his face, his satisfaction practically tangible. Tossing a grape into his mouth, he slung his bag over one shoulder. "Since you asked so nicely," he drawled, walking past her like a king accepting tribute.

The haze lifted, and the realization of what she'd just done hit Kara like a freight train. Her face burned with fury. She scrambled to her feet, grabbed a notebook from the counter, and stomped after him.

Without hesitation, she smacked the book hard against the back of his head.

"Awooch! Why did you do that?" Rox winced, rubbing the sore spot.

Kara smirked, brushing past him and heading for the door. This time, it opened effortlessly under her touch.

"I hate it when you smile," she muttered under her breath as she stepped outside, her anger simmering but a small, victorious grin tugging at her lips.