#jamieverse

Part One of 'The Trials' expanded fic.

Plot Summary: Jane Warfield and Theo Deschamps prepare for and attend the recruitment meeting for the elite, magical Black Ravens organisation. At the meeting, tension builds between them.

Pairing: Theo Deschamps x Jane Warfield/Reader (note: reader-insert friendly! Jane's physical description kept very vague.)

Can be read alongside listening to The Trials on Quinn.

Content: scene setting, world building, rivalry, flirtatious undertones

Wordcount: 4,200+

Additional credit: Tyler McCall - original writer of The Trials audiobook.

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A rugged chill had descended low into the air in tandem with the sunset that Saturday evening. Jane Warfield had watched the palette of the sky turn from a bright, rusted orange to an inky black outside her office window as the hours passed. She bit her thumb nail as she tapped her pen against her desk. Her leg bounced uncontrollably as she stared down at her stack of notes.

Her research into the Black Ravens organisation had chewed up almost all of her free time outside of work over the last week. She glanced over guiltily at the pile of unread books she had promised herself she’d get through, the empty potion vials that sat on the shelf eagerly awaiting her experimental formulas. She sighed heavily and tossed her pen to the side. She’d done all she could for now. At least, she’d learned as much as she could about the Black Ravens.  The trials, on the other hand…

Jane glanced down at the cream coloured envelope on her desk, a brilliant red wax seal embossed with a flying raven remained on the flap where she had opened it. An invite, one she had long awaited, to participate in the recruitment for the Black Ravens. She could hardly believe it still, but it was proof. Proof she was somebody. Or that she could be. Proof that her dedication to the magical community, and to magic itself hadn’t gone unnoticed. Proof that she was strong enough to be considered.

She breathed out a mixture of relief and apprehension.

A chime sounded delicately in her ears. “Shit – already?” she gripped the edges of her chair, clenching her fists. She squeezed her eyes shut and muttered to herself.

“Jane, get it together. You can do this. You were meant for this.”

She stood slowly, smoothing the front of her pencil skirt, tucking in the parts of her white blouse that had tried to escape its soft grasp on her waist. She made her way down the hall to the entrance way, grabbing a beige wool sweater off the back of a dining chair as she went. She slipped it on, as well as a pair of black loafers with a small heel. She checked her reflection in the mirror beside the door, straightening the bobby pins holding up her bun. She hadn’t bothered to change after work – this would have to do.

Jane focused hard on the coordinates given on her invite. She steadied her mind, her eyebrows knitting tightly together. With a snap and a soft woosh of air, she vanished into thin air.

***

The air inside Theo Deschamps’ apartment was warm and comfortable, despite its otherwise cold, hotel-esque appearance. The soft crackle of the fireplace added a quiet, elegant ambience to the open plan room.

Theo raised his arms above his head, casually stretching out in his desk chair. He got up and walked over to the floor-to-ceiling windows that spanned the entire living area wall, his shiny oxford shoes clacking slightly on the dark tiled floor. He watched for a moment as below, a group of people walked past his building, five floors down, in the crisp night air. They looked tiny. Unimportant.

The glow from a floor lamp beside the square sofa illuminated the very top of his chest, peaking through a fawn coloured shirt, casually unbuttoned at the top. He sighed pointedly. A mix of frustration and confidence sat inside him like an unstable potion. He flicked his hand vaguely toward the sleek desk on the other end of the room, and his laptop opened itself with a smooth click. He sat back down in the office chair, and began his email.

Dear Ben,

How are things in France? I have to admit I’m jealous of your new work assignment. I know everyone thinks that being  lead non-magical liaison is a cushy job, and I guess taking US government officials out for an all-expenses paid dinner every night isn’t too much to complain about, but still. I’d much rather get to spend a year travelling Europe. You get to be out in the field seeing real action and meeting interesting people. If I have to spend an evening explaining the basics of magic to one more clueless Senator…

Theo sighed, and continued typing.

It’s probably for the best that I’m home. I’m not sure if you’ve heard yet - but just as father predicted, the Black Ravens have started recruiting again for the first time in years. And naturally, I received by invitation to apply. It only makes sense that the Black Ravens would want me. It’s the most elite magical order in North America, and every influential member of the magical community for the last several decades has been a member.  Including my father, his father before him - entire generations of Deschamps going all the way back to the founding of the Black Ravens. It’s practically my birth right.

“Hmm…” Theo growled softly to himself.

But of course, the Black Ravens never make things easy. Not even for Legacies like me. I’ll have to participate in the trials just like every other applicant. You’d think I’d get some kind of advantage considering my family… but they make everyone swear that oath of secrecy. So father can’t even tell me what the three tasks are. I only know what everyone else does – that the trials will test my intelligence, my strength, and my loyalty.

He scoffed as he continued typing.

Well, not that I’m worried about any of that. I don’t know who all the other applicants are just yet. The first recruitment meeting is tonight, but I know I’m better than any of them, whoever they are. I belong on the Black Ravens.

Theo inhaled steadily.

I’ve only heard one other name rumoured as an applicant so far and, you won’t believe this. Do you remember Jane Warfield from college? She works in the research department, and the office is buzzing because she supposedly got a letter from the Black Ravens I mean, there’s no way right?

He sniggered childishly, imagining Jane walking across the office with her nose buried in a book, her skirt always covering her knees like they were a scandal.

It’s shocking to think that plain Jane would get an invitation. No one had even heard of her family before she showed up at St Michael’s. She was a scholarship student. And don’t remind me that she almost always did better than I did in class… which I know is what you were going to say. You had such a soft spot for plain Jane. I can picture you rolling your eyes at that nickname.

“Hmph.” Theo grumbled, continuing his analysis of her.

But really Ben, I never understood why all you guys thought she was so beautiful. I can admit there were times were she looked pretty, and…

Theo paused. An image crept into his mind, uninvited: Jane in a floor length, silky emerald gown, fitted over her perfectly, her hair draped softly over one shoulder. He shook his head quickly as if to shoo the image away.

…and I guess she was pretty stunning at the senior gala, if you’re into that kind of look. Which of course - I’m not. Besides, I see Jane around the office all the time, and she’s so prim…always buttoned up with her hair pulled back. I can’t even imagine what she’d wear outside of work and trust, me, I’ve tried. The fact remains though, that she’s a nobody - and I’m the heir to the Deschamps family. You might think that I’m a snob but the thought of having to compete against her for a spot on the Black Ravens is unbearable.

Theo mused slowly over his next words.

Father was able to get some inside information on this year’s trials. An old colleague of his, still on the Black Ravens told him that there’s only one spot opening up this round. And you know my dear old dad… if I don’t get that spot I’m as good as disowned as far as he’s concerned.

A sarcastic, exaggerated voice played in Theo’s mind as he typed:

“I’ve given you everything! You need to succeed in this world! Surely you’re not so lazy and spoiled that you can’t work for this one thing!”

Can you believe that? I mean, you’ve met the man so I’m sure you can but, given me everything? It’s not my fault the Deschamps family is a legacy pretty much anywhere that matters. I’d have gotten into St Michael’s on my own skill I’m sure. And yeah, maybe he got me my first job with the Magical Government. But I’m the one who worked up to lead liaison. That spot is mine, Ben. I don’t care what I have to do to secure it.

A delicate chime sounded, filling the air. Theo looked at the clock.

“Shit, it’s late. I better be going.” He said to himself. He typed quickly now, hurrying through the end of his message.

Anyway Ben, keep me posted about your travels through Europe you lucky bastard. And I’ll try to keep you as updated as I can about the trials. It’ll be hard once I take the oath tonight - Once I do I can’t share any details about the trials with anyone except other applicants, but you know I’ll do my best.

Speak soon, Theo.

A small woosh sounded as he hit send. “Alright,” Theo said aloud. “Let’s make sure I have everything here.”

He stretched out again, his long slender limbs releasing some of the built up tension he’d amassed during his email. He was confident, sure. Calm even. But an irritation seemed to ripple endlessly around the edges, around having to compete against lesser mages for a position that belonged to him.

And she irritated him the most. Plain Jane Warfield, with her buttoned up, knee-length, stocking-clad, slicked-back self. Plain Jane, who was seemingly afraid of the sight of her own kneecaps and collarbones, keeping them permanently locked behind tailored office attire like prisoners. Theo’s mind wandered again to that emerald gown, without permission.

“Right,” He cut the image off like an annoying, loose thread. It was time to focus. It was time to be his usual charming, confident self. It was time to outshine her, and all of the others.

He pulled on a classy dark wool trench coat, and ran his fingers through the soft waves of his hair, glancing quickly in the reflection of the window again. Devilishly handsome as always, he thought to himself. He clicked his fingers, and vanished with ease on the spot.  

***

Theo appeared outside the large, stately Black Raven’s building. It was lined with smooth, bright marble pillars and manicured hedges. Small balls of light hovered over the grand entranceway like large fireflies, attached to nothing but the air itself. They emitted a soft, quiet hum as he made his way inside. The air of confidence that surrounded him was almost palpable. Making his way down a wide hall lined with black velvet carpet, he caught the eye of Jerry, who was warmly welcoming the other applicants into the meeting room.

“Jerry, hi!” Theo exclaimed. “Theo Deschamps, Alexander’s son.” He added, the words carrying an unmistakably pompous weight. “Father told me you’d be here tonight,” he grinned.

Jerry took in Theo’s obvious sucking up, raising an eyebrow at him. He looked down over his glasses at Theo disapprovingly.

“That’s Mr Adams, if you don’t mind.” he corrected him pointedly.

“Um, of course. I apologise, Mr Adams. I - I hope you won’t think I was being impertinent…” Theo stumbled. “Father had only mentioned- “

Jerry cut him off swiftly, raising a hand and both of his eyebrows now. “I hope you aren’t under the impression that your father’s position on the Black Ravens will increase your likelihood of recruitment.” Theo blinked rapidly. Jerry clearly didn’t mince his words.

“No, no you’re… so right. No favouritism to any applicant – we wouldn’t want that! It would be unseemly.” Theo agreed rather breathily.

“Everyone invited here tonight will face the same trials, and every applicant will be assessed based on their own merits and skills, naturally.” Jerry said.

Theo rubbed his thumb against his index finger inside his coat pocket, the awkwardness hanging over him like a sheet. Frustration flashed through him as he took in Jerry’s words – he was more skilled, more deserving than any of them. He was going to make damn sure that that was known.

Theo forced a smile across his face. “I’m more than happy to prove my worth alongside everyone else. I’m not the last to arrive…am I?” He glanced through the hall, which was otherwise empty apart from the two of them.

Jerry didn’t answer him directly. “You may go in and wait for the senior members with the others, Theo,” he concluded. Theo had no desire to attempt small talk any longer. 

“Oh, good.” Theo eyed the door to meeting room briefly and turned the polished doorknob. It clicked open metallically. “Right through this door? Wonderful. I’ll see you in there…” He hesitated slightly, forcing the next word out through his teeth “Sir.”

Theo stepped into the meeting room. Black velvet carpet was laid in here too, matching the halls outside. Smaller marble pillars lined the side walls. The ceiling was high, adorned with friezes of various magical carvings, laid out in sequences. At the back of the room, an elevated platform spanned the length of the wall, housing a dark wooden podium and several stately chairs.

It was all a bit Roman Empire for Theo’s tastes. For a split second, a hint of anxiety curled in his stomach. A feeling grossly foreign to him.  He scanned the room and began mulling.

Mr Adams? Ridiculous. I can’t wait to tell father about that one. Theo realised the room was dead quiet. A silencing spell? Of course. He decided to test it.

“Hey guys!” he exclaimed confidently. There was no response. “Tough crowd,” he sighed to himself.

Fine, alright. Let’s see who else is here.

Rebecca - well it’s no surprises there. Her family business dominates pretty much every international market, so she’s got valuable contacts. I doubt she’ll be able to translate her book smarts for the trials though. Didn’t think I’d see James here, his private potions company really took off in the last few years. I guess that gives him pretty deep pockets to work with but unless he’s improved since school, his spells are sloppy. Blake is the youngest ever professor of concealment magic at St Michael’s, so of course they got an invite. Still, even when we were kids they hated getting down in the dirt. If things get physical they’re in trouble. The Morgan twins? Amelia was brilliant in combat class… I think she set some speed records for her spell work takedowns. But good old Eddie? That one has to be a favour called in by daddy dearest. Considering the amount of times he nearly flunked out, he’s definitely going to drag her down.

And, is that…Gregory? From the accounting department? Theo scoffed loudly to himself. That guy is absolutely useless. Always bumbling around, sticking his nose in other people’s business. How did he even get an invite? Everybody hates Gregory.

Theo frowned to himself, internally scoffing at Gregory, who stood awkwardly alone on the other side of the room, sliding his foot across the carpet idly.

•••••

Mere split seconds after vanishing, Jane appeared on the steps outside of the Black Ravens building. The chilled air hit her as if it had been waiting for her personally.

Apart from the short walks to and from the office and the library, she’d barely felt fresh air all week. The scent of thickly dusted books and scrolls seemed to have formed a permanent layer in her nostrils. She took a deep breath of it into her lungs.

Then another kind of chill set in, and sat itself right in her stomach like a rock. Because it was dead silent, save for the soft hum of the hovering lights. There were no voices or idle chatter carrying through the halls. Was she late?

“Shit. They’ve started!” She rushed through the heavy double oak doors into the building and walked frantically down the bright hall to the end room, with such speed that running would’ve looked less ridiculous.

Inside the meeting room, Theo was still assessing his peers.

Alright. So there’s 7 of us. That’s a good number, lucky even. He laughed breathily to himself. And all that fuss in the office about plain Jane Warfield getting an invite. He inhaled with a slight relief. She-

Jane’s stomach clenched as she opened the door as quietly as possible. It clicked loudly in defiance.

Theo’s head snapped around, his eyebrows furrowing together at the sight of her.

Mother fuc-

Jane breathed a tiny sigh of relief – they hadn’t started yet. But being the last one to arrive wasn’t exactly the first impression she was hoping for. She stepped further in and quickly scanned the room, the other applicants – all with looks of apprehension on their faces. All except…

Him. Theo Deschamps. Jane’s eyes darted towards him before she could stop them.

He towered above the rest, of course. Leaning casually against a pillar, his dark coat hung down gracefully from his shoulders to his thighs, his fawn shirt peeking out from beneath it. Black tailored trousers held up by a shiny leather belt framed his long legs; Jane could swear they went on for miles. His ashy, light brown hair was combed in tidy soft waves, just kissing the bottom of his ears.

As usual, Theo looked like he’d spent hours with a celebrity stylist – but Jane knew it was effortless, which irked her even more. She hadn’t ever decided whether his usual showing-up of everyone around him was deliberate or not.

Jane’s eyes darted up to his face. Clean shaven, sculpted with high cheekbones and a sharp jawline. His attractiveness pissed her off, frankly. Why was it all of the arrogant ones never had to try?

Shit. Her stomach flipped a little - Theo was looking directly at her. He wore a slightly smug expression, clearly having made his personal measure of the other six applicants already. A falsely friendly half-smile slid up one of his cheeks as he took slow steps towards her. He never was good at fake niceties.

Theo’s voice was low and gravelly in a way that seemed to scratch her eardrums in the most satisfying way, and laced smoothly with an upper class English accent.

He sounded amused as he greeted her. “Jane Warfield. What a… surprise to see you here.”

Jane stared into his Atlantic blue eyes. “Theo. Consider me surprised to see you.” She replied flatly. She already knew any conversation with him would come with its usual thick undertone of mocking, arrogance, or pompousness.

“You - you’re surprised to see me…here?” He chuckled, shaking his head down at her.

A wave of his hair threatened to flop over his forehead. “Well, Warfield, you probably don’t know this but my family was one of the founding families of the Black Ravens and-“

Jane cut him off swiftly. “Yes, in fact I do know that. I’ve done so much research into the Black Ravens this week that I hardly think there would be anything I don’t know about them at this point.”

Theo looked down at her, amused. “Oh, you did know that? You spent the week researching the Black Ravens?” His voice softened down, teasing. It could have easily been interpreted as seductive, if she didn’t know better. “Of course you did.”

He was raising his eyebrows as he took her in. His eyes flicked inadvertently to her mouth for a split second, before meeting her eye line again.

“What is that supposed to mean?” Jane replied, narrowing her eyes.

“Hmm? Oh no, I was just thinking about how…talented you are at research.” His voice wrapped around the word ‘talented’ sarcastically. He sounded on the edge of laughter. “You were always so… studious,” He lingered on the end of his sentence with a slight hiss.

Jane stared at him blankly. God, did he think he was clever? Funny? Witty?

She rocked on her heels for a moment, and then replied. “That sounds like an insult coming from you, you know. The way you say it, like it’s a bad thing.”

“Do I say it like it’s an insult? How interesting.” Theo smirked. “No, all that I meant was that in most of my memories of you from college, you’re in the library half hidden behind a pile of books. I’m not sure I ever saw you at a party.”

Jane raised her eyebrows at him. “So, you were looking for me at parties were you? Hoping I would be there? Sorry to disappoint you, Theo.” She smiled sweetly.

He may have been intimidating to most people, but Jane found him irksome, and his arrogance was almost funny when it wasn’t making her roll her eyes.

Irritation flashed across his face, his eyebrows furrowed in defiance. “No, I wasn’t looking for you Warfield. I’m just saying I don’t recall you being particularly social is all.”

“Why do you insist on calling me Warfield? Forcing formality is just faking intelligence.” She pointed out.

He stared at her, challenged. “I’m calling you Warfield because that’s your name.” Theo said matter-of-factly. “Would you rather I call you plain Jane?” He added snidely.

“Oh come on Theo,” She rolled her eyes and shook her head quickly. “We’re adults now aren’t we? This isn’t the school playground.”

He looked like someone who had been told off by the teacher. “I - yes - I know we’re adults now, it’s just…”

Jane held her disapproval of his mocking plainly on her face.

“Fine.” Theo’s voice softened again. “Jane.” He said her name like he was tasting it slowly. “Happy?”

She smiled sweetly at him again, like a teacher praising a child. “See, was that so hard?”

The doors clicked open metallically, breaking them out of their back and forth. Senior members of the Black Ravens began filing into the room. Steps clacked across the floor as they made their way to their seats on the platform.

Theo’s eyes scanned them as they passed through the room. “Ah, it looks like Jer- Mr Adams,” He hissed, “is ready to start. It’s been so great catching up…” He said with a sarcasm so thick you could cut it.

“It’s just too bad that once we take the oath we won’t be able to speak to one another again.” He added jokingly.

Jane raised an eyebrow at him. “You know that’s only for people outside of the trials, right? You know, maybe you should read a book every now and then...or perhaps some simple guidelines to start?” She teased back.

Theo narrowed his eyes at her. “Yes, I know the oath only prevents us from talking to people outside the trials. It was a joke.”

She’d definitely hit a nerve by not pandering to his humour. She loved taking him down a peg, his arrogance was astonishing.

“I see you haven’t developed a sense of humour since-“ he began.

Jane cut him off; she’d grown tired of him now. She stared ahead, shutting him out. “The meeting is starting, Theo.”

“I can see the meeting is starting!” Theo hissed quietly.

Jerry stepped up to the podium in his formal robes, and waved a hand across the room. The applicants all turned their attention toward him, their facial expressions ranging from eager to slightly nauseous, in Gregory’s case.

Theo turned to Jane one last time. “Good luck with the trials Jane.” He growled.

You’re going to need it. He thought to himself. I’m going to make sure I take you out of the competition first.

Theo listened to Jerry rattle off the rules of the trials. The expected things – like taking the oath of secrecy. No involving non-mages, no using dangerous magic, and no harming other applicants. Anyone who failed to complete a trial would be disqualified. Clues would arrive shortly for the first trial, and subsequent clues would arrive to those who had successfully completed the previous trial. They were to test intelligence, strength, and loyalty. The facets that the Black Ravens valued most.

Intelligence. Theo’s brain lit up at the word, and the vague shape of a plan began forming in the back of his mind. Hmm…unless…

He glanced over at Jane, who was taking in Jerry’s words attentively. Why put in all that work to prove himself alone, when he could use Jane’s skills to propel himself in the ranks faster? Not that he couldn’t do it alone of course, but to beat out everyone as fast as possible, using her skills to do so, well that was enticing.

If he used Jane, he could complete the trials faster than any recruit in history and make an impression that even his father couldn’t ignore. He’d be celebrated, praised endlessly. Theo imagined his portrait on his father’s desk, square centre, rather than off to the side collecting dust. His stomach flipped with excitement. He’d made a decision. A sly smile slid through his lips. Jane was a means to an end.

Billy Hargrove

Hot for Teacher (summer school teacher!Billy x fem!student reader)

6 Underground

A Certain Someone pt. 1 (soft!Billy roommates to lovers) (multi-chapter)

A Certain Someone pt. 2

Eddie Munson

Pillow Talk (bestfriend!Eddie x fem!reader)

Breaking the Law (pt. I) (Eddie x Hopper!reader)

I Can Fix That (handyman!Eddie x reader)

Nancy Wheeler

Snow Angels

Robin Buckley

Gold Rush (established relationship)

Part Two of 'The Trials' expanded fic.

(Part One here!)

Plot Summary: Theo and Jane meet at the McKittrick to discuss cooperation over drinks, leaving them both grappling with their internal feelings.

Pairing: Theo Deschamps x Jane Warfield/Reader (note: reader-insert friendly! Jane's physical description kept very vague.)

Can be read alongside listening to The Trials on Quinn.

Content: world building, teasing/banter, lust/tension, fighting feelings

Wordcount: 6,400+

Additional credit: Tyler McCall - original writer of The Trials audiobook.

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Theo sat casually at his sleek desk, mulling over his plan again. Work with Jane, use her skills to bolster his own, and move through the trials like they were simple as anything. He’d impress the senior members, and most importantly his father. And by the end, that spot would be his and his alone. He ran his fingers through his hair, exhaling.

In the last trial, he’d take the win from her. He could do that easily, strength wise he was much bigger than her, and magic-wise he was extremely skilled in physical magic. He could easily bind her, and grab the win. She wouldn’t see it coming anyway. He’d gain her trust, make her think there was more than one spot available. She’d be blind to his intentions, believe they were doing it together.

In the end, it wouldn’t matter. The spot would be his and he’d never have to think about plain Jane Warfield and her infuriatingly imprisoned knees ever again.

He glanced out of the large window. It was properly late now. Dark, inky clouds were scattered across the sky, blocking out the stars. A faint moonlight glowed from behind one of them, like it was struggling for air.

He waved his hand lazily across his desk. Parchment appeared in front of him eagerly. He started writing in an elegant, italic hand. After a moment, he sat back and admired the note approvingly.

He waved his hand once more, and the note folded itself up into a neat little square, before vanishing with a small pop. He stood up and stretched in one fluid motion.

The die was cast, the dominos were set. He already felt triumphant as he walked toward his bedroom. He slid out of his clothes and into the bed, satin sheets settling gently across his bare chest. That spot on the Black Ravens was his, and he slept like he’d already won it.

***

The last embers in the fireplace glowed quietly inside Jane’s cosy living room, sending soft light dancing across the dark walls. She was curled up on the couch, legs under her, having only hastily removed her shoes before collapsing down onto it with a hearty sigh. She looked down the hall toward her office and decided. No more Black Ravens research. She had to cut herself off. It was time to focus on the trials.

Her mind wandered back to the recruitment meeting… to him. No matter how irritating Theo’s arrogance was, no matter how easy it usually was to brush off his attitude, she kept returning to their conversation, replaying it in her head.

Surprised to see her there? She scoffed out loud. What did that mean? Did he think she was weak, that she didn’t belong there, and that she didn’t have a chance? That a non-legacy shouldn’t be in the same ranks as someone like him? That her magic was average at best?

Self-doubt crept up her spine. She curled her lips into her teeth and squeezed her eyes shut. God, he was infuriating. She’d held her own against him in person, but his attitude truly got to her in secret. His mocking, the way he thought he was so much better than her and made no effort to hide it. She wanted to slap the permanent smug look right off of his face.

She sighed again, leaning her head back and shutting her eyes, doing her best to scrub his sarcastic smiles from her mind. She shouldn’t let him get to her this much. Why did it matter what he thought? She knew her ambitions, her goals, like the back of her hand by now. She knew her reasons for wanting to be a in the Black Ravens. It shouldn’t matter what Theo Deschamps of all people thought of her. She shut her eyes tighter.  She wasn’t here to impress him.

A small pop sound made her eyes snap open. Floating in front of her at arm’s length was a small, neatly folded square of parchment. She stared at it, hovering there politely. It shook slightly as if waiting, encouraging her to read it. Who the hell was sending her mail at - she glanced at the clock on the wall – 2am on a Sunday?

Gingerly she took the note from the air, and unfolded it like some fragile thing.

Jane. Meet me at the McKittrick bar, Friday at 8pm, after work. It’s about the trials. Don’t be late. – Theo.

She stared at Theo’s handwriting, trying to decide whether she was surprised at how neat it was or if it was exactly what she’d expect from someone like him. She traced each word with her eyes. It was proud, elegant, another type of showmanship. She decided she wasn’t at all surprised.

But – meet him at the McKittrick? To talk about the trials? She wasn’t certain she could stand listening to another conversation laced with overt arrogance and sarcasm, fend off more mocking about her ‘talents’ as he’d so childishly put it.

She mulled it over, clicking her tongue and inhaling sharply. Her interest was piqued, though. If Theo had more information about the trials, that might be an advantage to her. His father was a member after all, and his family was a big part of the Black Ravens, she wasn’t ignorant to that fact. Maybe there was something she’d missed in her research, something he could tell her.

But if so…what would he want for it?

Apprehension rose through her slowly, inch by inch, her leg bouncing. She remembered their conversation from hours earlier, still so fresh in her mind. Theo wasn’t exactly…friendly. Welcoming. They weren’t friends, they never had been. They were from completely different worlds. Now, they were technically rivals. What could he possibly want from her? What could have stirred him to want to meet with her, to want to see her again? His intentions were not obvious.

Her brow furrowed. She had to find out what he wanted, what he was up to. She stood up decidedly, folding the note back down and placing it on a side table. Whatever he was up to, she was going to figure it out.

***

Theo entered his apartment, the cool damp air following behind him like a shadow. He shook out his soft mop of wavy hair in the entrance way, and placed his wool coat and scarf on the rack in the corner. Work was such a bore today. The only thing he’d enjoyed was the small glances between him and Jane across the office. She’d nodded her head in his direction as they passed silently in the elevator earlier in the week, quietly confirming that she would attend their meeting tonight. Each glance reminded him of his plan, and his imminent Black Ravens win.

And of course, of her frustratingly prim work outfits. Today it was a grey, pleated skirt that fell to her knees, paired with a plum shirt that was buttoned up to the top. Black stockings without even a hint of sheerness imprisoned her legs as usual. Her hair had been in its usual high bun. Theo sighed, frowning. He didn’t know why he cared what she wore, but it got to him. No one could be that prim and perfect all the time, surely.

He flicked his hand vaguely toward the modern kitchen island as he stepped fully inside. A glass slipped silently out of a cupboard and waited in the air for its instructions. Theo snapped his fingers. The glass slid under the faucet, filling itself with water and gliding smoothly towards him. He took it casually from the air and sat at his desk, drafting another email.

Dear Ben,

Greece sounds like a blast. Don’t brag about it too much though, some of us are still suffering through a New England Autumn. It’s disgusting here today.

Theo looked out the window and sighed at the gloomy, rainy sky.

Anyway, I’m pleased to report that I was right. None of the other applicants are going to be real competition. It’s mostly the usual suspects of people in our circle, and then…Gregory. Can you believe that loser got an invite? So, that spot is already mine. Oh, and Jane Warfield did get an invite. They must have a quota for non-legacies or something because I really can’t imagine why else the Black Ravens would invite her to apply. Still, I have figured out a way to make it work for me.

He tapped his fingers lightly against the desk, his other hand resting briefly under his chin as he contemplated disclosing his plan.

You might remember that Jane just barely beat me for Valedictorian, only because she studied harder and I don’t test well but whatever. There is no question her concealment work was better than mine, I never had the patience. And her potions always turned out higher quality than mine. She’s…capable, for sure. Jane is basically the most well-rounded candidate other than me, which means she’s the only one who might be a thorn in my side. So, I figure – “if you can’t beat em, join em”. Right?

Theo glanced towards a rolled up parchment scroll on the desk, the wax seal ripped in half from his rushed opening.

Our first clue arrived today. We took the oath so I can’t say much about it but it’s the one that’s meant to test our intelligence. I’ve asked Jane to meet with me tonight to discuss it over drinks. I’ve hatched a brilliant plan. I’m going to propose that we work together, to beat out all the other applicants. That will make knocking the others out that much easier, and keep her close to me while I’m working on it.

He paused for a moment, hesitating without meaning to at his next words.

Then, in the last trial…I’ll just take it from her. And the best part is, she doesn’t know there’s only one spot available. So she won’t realise that she’s basically handing me the win.

He sighed, knowing how Ben would react to this plan of his. Knowing he’d disapprove.

I’m sure you’ll think that’s a nasty trick, but Ben you know my father and you know what’s at stake for me if I don’t do everything I can for this spot on the Black Ravens. I can’t be the first Deschamps heir not to take the badge. Anyway, enough about that. I should be getting ready for my date.

“My date?” Theo questioned himself. He grimaced as if the word tasted sour. “Ugh.” He hit the back space, and rewrote.

My meeting with Jane. Fingers crossed it goes in my favour.

Speak soon, Theo.

The email sent with a soft woosh.

“A date?” Theo scoffed quietly to himself. “Only if hell freezes over.”

He walked back to the front door, grabbing his coat on the way out. Wet rain drops still adorned it. He shook it out as he stepped out onto the landing. He ran his fingers through his hair, smoothing it absentmindedly. Then, with a casual snap of his fingers, he vanished. 

***

The McKittrick had an ancient, old English vibe to it. Crooked, dark wooden beams lined the ceiling. Black wrought iron sconces holding thick, lit candles adorned the walls, and an irregular mish-mash of rugs and carpets covered the wide wooden floorboards with a very casual irregularity. The bar was newer, though. Shiny, polished mahogany. With glass cabinets spread across the wall behind it, lit up and housing every type of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage Jane could think of.

Dark mahogany tables matched the bar, spaced out across the room. Some free standing, some booths in corners and lining the walls under the windows.

Soft, gentle jazz emitted from somewhere unknown. She couldn’t see a jukebox – it seemed to just be part of the air itself. The same type of hovering, softly humming balls of light that were outside of the Black Ravens building floated gently in here, too. Jane felt the warmth of one near her cheek as she stepped away from the bar, martini in hand.

She scanned the room. It was busy, as usual. Various pairs and groups of mages were scattered about the tables and booths. Some looked casual, laughing and drinking. Some were in formal robes, muttering quickly to each other. Professors, probably.

Jane chose a table through an old interior archway, slightly off to the side. She sat down.

God, what am I doing here? Her leg bounced of its own accord, giving away her apprehension. She dug her heel hard into the floor. She hadn’t bothered to change, she had nothing to prove. She slid off her grey, cropped wool coat and laid it over the back of her chair. She looked down at her watch.

Theo’s note flashed in her mind. ‘Don’t be late.’ She scoffed. He was late. And it didn’t surprise her.

The bell on the front door chimed. Jane looked up. Striding confidently towards her was Theo, as if he knew where she was immediately upon entering. Was she that predictable? He wore a smile that seemed too sickly sweet. He slid out of his coat, hanging it on the back of the chair opposite her.

Jane’s eyes betrayed her otherwise cool demeanour, glancing down along the line of his forearm that was peeking through his casually rolled sleeves. He smiled at her still, trying too hard to look warm.

“Ah.” Theo inhaled. ”I should’ve guessed you’d be here early, Jane.” He said.

His low, gravelly voice sent a shiver down the back of her neck. She looked up at him, he was still standing.

“I’m on time. You, however, are late.” She said, flashing her watch at him. “Against your own rules I see.” She added thickly.

He sat down with a smirk; he wasn’t a man of too many rules, after all.

“Excuse you? I am…” He looked down at his own watch, a soft growl rumbling in his throat. “Hmm…fine. Ten minutes late. Which is on time for most people.”

His eyes flashed down from her hair to her torso, taking in her outfit. “And at least I changed out of my work clothes.”

He raised an eyebrow as his eyes travelled back up to her face. Jane shifted in her seat, feeling somehow exposed. She took a sip of her martini, and felt the alcohol slowly warming her stomach.

“Let me ask you something, Jane. Do you own any clothing that doesn’t fit the office dress code?” Theo continued snidely.

“Why does it matter to you what I wear at all? Would you have preferred I show up in a clown costume?” Jane retorted, irritation flashing behind her eyes.

“It doesn’t matter to me at all, I’m just curious. Anyway…” He said, nodding towards her drink “I see you got a head start on me.” Theo gestured to a waiter who was floating between tables nearby. “A Manhattan, on the rocks please.”

Jane stared silently at him, trying to figure him out. She wished he’d get to the point quickly. Why were they even doing this, so he could critique her outfit choices some more? He looked friendly enough tonight, smiling, chatty. But there was something else underneath it, something conniving.

As he took his drink gracefully from the waiter, Jane’s eyes absentmindedly tracked his hands. Several of his long fingers were adorned with chunky, silver rings, the light glinting off of them distractingly.

Theo continued, gesturing vaguely to her drink again. “You know, I wouldn’t have taken you for a martini girl. I’d have guessed you like a sturdy, reliable glass of red wine.”

“Yes, well usually that’d be more than fine. But…” She paused briefly. “I needed something stronger if I was going to sit here and converse with you.” Jane replied, looking sideways at him.

Theo laughed. Maybe she did have a sense of humour after all.

“You wanted a higher alcohol content to deal with me? Well I’m honoured. I hope the martini helps but I have to know…” Theo stared intensely at her, his voice dropping several octaves in a way that made her feel flighty.

“Do you like it dirty, Jane?” A sly half smile crept up his face, pleased with himself.

A chill ran down the back of her neck. Something more dangerous and hot curled inside her stomach.

She swallowed hard and dug her heels into the floor. She knew what he was doing, and she wasn’t giving in to his teasing that easily. “Are you going to get to the point of why you invited me here, or not?” She asked breathily.

Theo looked at her blankly, but her physical reaction to his teasing hadn’t gone unnoticed by him. She didn’t say it in words - he’d felt the air around her shift into something minutely more static. His eyebrows flicked upwards slightly.

“Fine, straight to business it is. But first, a toast.” He raised his glass towards the middle of the table. “To our imminent acceptance into the Black Ravens.”

Jane attempted to look anywhere other than his face, she was distrusting him more by the second.

“Uh uh,” Theo tutted, snapping her attention back to him. His gaze locked onto her eyes so intensely her throat went dry. “You have to look at me in the eyes when we do this. It’s a sign of trust.” He said softly.

She sighed and stared confidently back at him, but her nerves started firing under her skin like rogue sparklers. Their glasses clinked together, and he smiled slyly.

“So, you want me to trust you, is that it?” Jane asked, feigning the confidence until it returned to her for real.

“Mmm.” Theo said, taking a swig of his drink. “Also did you know the French believe you’ll have seven years of bad sex if you don’t make eye contact during a toast?”

In the briefest moment, his eyes travelled from hers to the edge of her jawline, and down her neck. He looked up quickly, ignoring the sudden, unwelcome urge he felt to touch her face.

His eyes lit up, teasing again. “You’ll be thanking me for your next orgasm.” He added with a smirk.

Jane’s insides flipped, the unwanted heat travelling up from her lower belly to her chest. She exhaled heavily before it could reach her cheeks, keeping her face composed and unimpressed. She took an irritated sip of her drink, emptying it.

God, he was infuriating. He wasn’t flirting with her, he was mocking her. Sizing her up. He was arrogant, and unserious. And her body was betraying her. She couldn’t let him sense what was rising under her skin. She narrowed her eyes at him.

Theo felt the static become more palpable.

“Well that hit a nerve…” He continued to poke. “Not getting laid much these days?” he said jokingly, looking down his nose at her.

That was her tipping point. She hated being mocked by him. She hated his arrogance, she hated his teasing. And she couldn’t stand the way her body was responding to him anyway. She stood up briskly, her chair scraping loudly across the floor.

Theo’s face dropped. He actually looked something adjacent to apologetic, knowing he’d pushed too far. He held out his hand to stop her, feeling guilty.

“Wait, wait don’t go. I’m sorry. You’re right, that was out of line.” He looked up at her, attempting a look of sincerity and falling somewhere short. “Please stay. I’ll behave myself, I promise.”

Jane stared at him, hesitating for a moment. She did still want to know why he invited her here, what his intentions were. She sighed, and sat back down.

Theo looked grateful. “Thank you, Jane.” He said, relieved she hadn’t walked out.

“Theo, why did you ask me here?” Jane sighed.

“I invited you here tonight because I have a proposition for you.” Jane shot him a dirty look, eyes narrowed. “Not like that, don’t worry.” Theo reassured her. But he frowned, offended. “Though I feel like I should be insulted by the face you just made at that…”

“So, not something inappropriate then?” She challenged.

“No, it’s about the trials. I had a thought the other night after our meeting...” He looked slightly hesitant.

“Did that hurt?” Jane asked cynically. Theo pretended like he didn’t hear her, but the corner of his mouth curled up a fraction.

“You’re smart.” He said.

Jane raised her eyebrows, waiting for a joke to land. It didn’t.

“Oh don’t look at me like that. I’m not so arrogant that I can’t admit when other people are skilled. And we both know you’re very intelligent.” He continued, voice even. He wasn’t teasing anymore.

Jane’s eyes stayed narrow, waiting. “Go on,” she permitted.

Theo nodded slightly. “Anyway, as I was saying - you’re smart. And I remember how well you did in school. But, I also remember that you struggled with physical magic.”

“No I didn’t.” Jane said immediately, preparing to defend herself and her magic against wherever Theo was going with this. Her hand tightened around her empty glass, her eyes met his in defiance.

He scoffed lightly at her. “You absolutely did. You nearly got killed in combat class one time.” Jane’s defiance faded, remembering the class Theo was meaning. He continued, “If the professor hadn’t been watching your match closely, that kid would’ve taken your head off.”

Jane sighed, saying nothing. It was true. Her physical magic could be better. It was one of her main sources of self-doubt.

“My point is you’re brilliant, and incredibly talented.” Theo said. It felt sincere. He meant it. He smiled at her. No teasing, no bullshit.

Jane’s cheeks flooded with heat, turning a soft shade of pink as she broke eye contact with him, looking down quickly, pretending to adjust her skirt.

Theo felt her hesitate. He tilted his head down to study her face closer.

“I’m sorry… are you blushing?” He asked. He looked slightly amused as she tried to shake her head in disagreement, but her cheeks were still pink. “Do you not get complimented often?” he asked.

Jane lifted her head back up, attempting to be casual, and looked into his eyes. Stupidly, impossibly blue. Who even has eyes that colour? How is that fair? She mused in her head. His eyes searched hers back, knowing her answer without her even saying it.

“Ah.” He concluded. “Well, it’s true.” He said softly, with genuine sincerity this time.

Jane blushed again, wishing she could pull her shirt up over her godforsaken cheeks.

“Anyway, you’re good. Great even. But the second the trials get dangerous, I think you’re in trouble.” Theo suggested.

“So what do you propose, then?” Jane asked, cheeks cooling slightly now, as her focus was drawn back to figuring out his intentions.

“That’s where I can help you. I’m sure you remember but I was always top of the class with that kind of stuff.” Theo’s voice softened again. “As a matter of fact I was almost always right behind you in most classes. And I could have been Valedictorian if you had just…”

Jane scoffed incredulously. “You, Valedictorian? Right… and if I had have done what, exactly?” She challenged, feeling defensive again.

Theo continued softly, not giving her defiance any room. “I don’t know. If you had just had a little more fun in college like the rest of us, and not spent every spare second studying?” He asked with faint sarcasm.

She stared at him blankly, waiting for the next jeer, but he continued normally.

“Well, I guess that’s not important right now. I think you and I both know that we’re each other’s only real competition in the trials right?”

Jane’s lips curled over her teeth. She didn’t want to speak down on anyone, especially any of the other applicants. The trials were going to be hard for all of them, and they all had their merits, she supposed. But deep down, she knew he was right.

Theo felt her hesitant energy land in his chest. She didn’t want to rag on anyone. She was good, kind. He exhaled, softening his shoulders, smiling gently at her.

“The others have their advantages but…they aren’t nearly well rounded enough.” He continued.

“Us though, we’re nearly… perfect.” The word perfect lingered in the front of his mouth. His eyes dropped inadvertently to her neckline again. He continued softly. “And we complement each other really well. Our weak spots I mean. I could help you with the physical stuff, and you could help me work through the brainy stuff.”

Jane searched his eyes again, his argument made sense. It was logical that they’d choose to work together for the trials. They could both end up on the Black Ravens after all, Jerry hadn’t exactly said how many spots there were. They could help each other get there, he was right. She couldn’t help but sense deception under his words, though.

“So, what you’re saying is…?” She prompted him.

Theo raised his eyebrows slightly. “I’m saying, while I’m sure each of us could get through the trials on our own, if we did them together…we could do it much faster. No one else would even stand a chance.”

Jane hesitated again, the deception she sensed was ringing in her ears like a threat. She swallowed, and sat back in her chair, tapping her fingers on the table.

Theo felt her uncertainty plain as day. He was suddenly so acutely aware of Jane’s physical emotions. Maybe from their current close proximity… or from something else? He wasn’t quite sure. But he could’ve felt her from across the room.

His voice softened further. “You seem unsure. It’s not against any of the rules you know, I triple checked. Applicants in the trials are welcome to work together, most people just choose not to because they don’t trust each other.”

“And I can trust you?” Jane asked, sceptical. “Theo, I hardly know you. You hardly know me.” She added with a sigh.

Theo laughed, taken aback, but wanting to convince her it was misplaced suspicion. “Well of course you can trust me.” He insisted, almost too well. “I mean think about it. What reason would I have to lie to you?” He smiled sweetly at her.

“Working with me would be an advantage to you, Theo. My research would be invaluable and I think you’re aware of that.” Jane pointed out.

“Yes, yes this would help me. But, it would help you too.” He agreed softly, gesturing at her by tilting his glass.

Theo shook the empty glass, the ice rattling around in it. “I could use another drink.” He concluded. “Would you like one? It’s on me. Well, they’re both on me actually.”

Jane nodded. She was beginning to see where he was coming from, even if she didn’t entirely trust him.

“Great,” Theo grinned. He knocked on the table, and the waiter floated over to them. “Ah, another Manhattan please. And a martini for the lady…” He paused, looking over at Jane. “How do you like them?”

Jane clenched her jaw. She really didn’t want to give him the leverage. She rolled her eyes at him as a smile crept up his cheek. He already knew what she was hesitating to say. She sighed. Theo ginned.

“Ah,” he chuckled, understanding. “And make it dirty please.”

Jane nodded once toward the waiter.

Theo looked down at her through intense eyes, teasing again. He couldn’t help it. She was so sensitive, even if her face wouldn’t outwardly admit it. Everything she felt underneath her perfect, controlled façade was pricking him like needles in the back of his neck. He was going to take advantage of that every moment he could.

“So… you do like it dirty.” Theo grinned. Jane kicked him hard under the table, her eyebrows furrowing angrily.

Theo laughed breathily. Riling her up was like nothing else he’d felt in quite a while. “Okay, I’m sorry! But you set me up for that one you have to admit.”

Theo’s voice softened again as Jane took her refill from the waiter. He kept his eyes on her like a hawk on prey.

“So, what do you think? Do you want to work together?” He asked, attempting casual but unable to hide the slight hope in his tone.

“How much time do I have? Is this an offer that… expires?” Jane asked, still searching for his motives.

“No, you don’t have to decide right this second, if you want to take some time to-”

Jane cut him off. In truth, she had already decided. If she couldn’t figure him out over drinks, she would have to keep him close until she did. “Yes, Theo. I… I guess I do think it’s beneficial.” She concluded with a quiet sigh.

“Yes? Yes - you want to work together?” He looked surprised, as if a large part of him hadn’t expected her to accept.

She curled her lips over her teeth. “Yeah. Let’s- let’s do it, then.” Something curled softly in her stomach as she said it. She refused to acknowledge it as excitement, labelling it as apprehension instead.

Theo looked genuinely happy. “Excellent.” He grinned. “This is a great idea. You’ll see.” He swirled his drink around, taking a sip. The ice rattled again, settling.

“Another toast. To our winning partnership.” He looked her at her intently again, like he was testing her. Jane raised her glass to his, keeping her eyes locked on his. The corner of his mouth slid up.

“Hmm.” Theo growled softly to himself. “Excellent eye contact on that one… and I didn’t even have to ask. You’re a quick study… aren’t you?” He asked, his voice slipping lower into dangerous territory.

Jane shrugged at him with a small smile. Theo couldn’t stop studying her. The soft, orange glow from the candlelight seemed to dance across her cheeks, slip softly down her jaw, and settle into her neck. His eyes followed it as it flickered gently across her skin. Strands of her hair had come loose, falling delicately around her forehead. Her hands, small, curled around her glass with fragile care. Something fluttered briefly inside his stomach like a moth.

Jane raised her eyebrows at him. She couldn’t help but notice the way he was looking at her now, it was… gentler. Almost kind. His eyes had glazed over with something soft. The deep, icy blue that had childishly teased her all night suddenly felt warm.

She took another sip, swallowing down the lump of heat that was rising in her throat. “Are you, okay Theo? You’re looking at me in a weird way.” She pointed out.

Theo’s lips parted slightly in surprise, like he wasn’t aware that had been obvious. “What? No, I-I-I’m… I’m not looking at you in any special way.” He stuttered, trying to recover his earlier demeanour.

“It’s just um. You look different tonight, actually. It’s… nice.” His voice had slipped back down again. He didn’t want to be noticing her in any other way than as a rival, and yet…

“There’s something about you that’s…” He continued, searching.

Heat rose under Jane’s skin once again but she stuffed it down into her heels. It was her turn to poke him, to crack his arrogant façade.

“I think the word you’re looking for is… pretty?” She fluttered her eyelashes deliberately and pretended to swoosh back her hair dramatically. “Are you allergic to that word?” She asked, smirking.

Theo grimaced slightly. “No… no, hang on. I’m just saying you look pretty in this light.” He said pointedly. “It’s just the candlelight in here it’s quite… flattering. That’s all.”

He cleared his throat, and inhaled sharply, recovering his usual arrogant composure. This was not the time, place, or person for whatever fleeting appreciation he’d just had.

“Right so, let’s dive in. You got the first clue this week too right?” Theo asked, changing the subject entirely. Back to the point, back to his plan. He needed to get on with it.

Jane nodded, remembering how the scroll of parchment had appeared so rudely on her dining table earlier in the week, almost landing in her cereal bowl.

“Hmm.” Theo contemplated. “Well, I’ll be honest I can’t make sense of it. I’ve never been very good at figuring out riddles.” His eyes skirted back over her face automatically at the last word. “Do you have any idea of where to start?”

Jane sighed and stared at him, rolling her shoulders back as if to loosen what had settled there over the evening. “Actually, yes. I might.”

Theo laughed heartily, like he’d already known her answer. “Well of course you do.” He grinned. “Right… well. So what are your initial thoughts?”

She looked at him almost apologetically. He wasn’t going to enjoy her answer. “Library.” She said plainly. “Whatever information we are looking for, we will find it there. Trust me.”

Theo whined at her answer. “Ugh. I was afraid you’d say that.” He said, rolling his eyes. “Alright fine, so we have to go to the library to do research. Let’s get that part out of the way.”

“The sooner the better.” Jane shrugged. It was inevitable.

“It’s too late now obviously, but should we say tomorrow morning? I can meet you there when they open.” Theo suggested, raising an eyebrow.

Jane scoffed. “Do you even know when the library opens?” she accused.

Theo puffed his cheeks out slightly. He didn’t, clearly. He probably hadn’t stepped foot in there for years.

“Nine o’clock.” Jane pointed out.

Theo smiled thankfully. “Great, it’s decided. In the meantime though, I had some theories I wanted to talk through. And I’d love to hear yours because I know you have some.” His eyebrows flicked upward, eyes searching hers again.

***

It was nearly midnight when Jane finally stumbled lightly through her front door.

It’s just because I’m tired. She told herself, kicking off her shoes and laying her grey coat over the back of a squashy arm chair.

It was true, but she had also made her way through three martinis over the course of her meeting with Theo. God, she was going to regret this when the morning chime rang in her ears. Why did they have to talk for so long? Granted, she was doing most of the talking. She had a few quite in-depth theories about their first clue.

Theo of course barely contributed anything except more teasing, and the odd prompt for her to discuss more. All night, Jane swore he was trying not to look at her too hard. But she caught him, a few times, gazing at her like a riddle he was trying to figure out, like a stitch he was trying to unpick. She shook her head, trying in vain to clear it.

She snapped her fingers and a small hovering light appeared behind her, humming gently. It followed her has she walked ungracefully down the hallway, pulling out bobby pins as she went. She arrived at the bathroom, leaning over the sink and running the faucet, tossing the pins into small a ceramic bowl on the counter. She cupped her hands under the faucet and sighed as the cool water ran through her hands, overflowing them. She splashed her face.

What was…that? That ridiculous heat that kept flashing under her skin, that unwanted hunger she’d felt whenever he looked at her too long, as if she was starved? The way she had to keep digging her heels into the floor, holding indifference on her face like her life depended on it. And failing at it occasionally. Every time she did had Theo noticing, taking it as an opportunity to make some joke. She shook the water off her face, sighing.

Jane walked further down the hall and into her bedroom, the light still following her. She slipped out of her work clothes, pulled on an oversized t-shirt, and peeled back the covers of her bed. Sliding into it, she stretched out and groaned, trying to release all of the confusing tension that had wrapped itself around her. She wasn’t interested in him. They were complete opposites, they’d never been friends even in school, and depending on how many Black Ravens spots there actually were – they could be actual rivals now.

It’s just the martinis. The candlelight. The smell of mahogany. It’s nothing. Jane told herself sternly.

She wasn’t going to fall for it. She wasn’t going to risk it all for some charm and high cheekbones. Especially when they were attached to the most arrogant man she’d ever met.

She snapped her fingers and the light dissipated, leaving her blanketed in darkness, just a faded moonlight edging around the curtains. The cool air brushed her face as she slipped under sleep, her head spinning as she went.

***

Theo dropped heavily onto his sofa when he arrived home that night. He waved his hand toward the windows, sending the curtains gliding smoothly over them. He squeezed his temples with his hands, sighing. He needed to focus. Focus on the trials, focus on the win. Focus on the one spot that belonged to him. Not on… her. She was a means to an end. Just a tool. Not some equation to be deduced, not some work of art to discover.

Although… the way the candlelight had danced across her skin, so delicately at the bar… The urge he felt to -

He shook his head violently. The Black Ravens was all that mattered. Without that badge, he’d be nothing. He’d be a waste, especially in his father’s eyes. And at work? Theo Deschamps, losing out to Jane Warfield? The gossip he imagined made him grimace. He couldn’t bear the thought. He slapped his thighs as he stood up decidedly. It was time to lock in, properly. She was nobody. Theo needed her research skills. That was all. He didn’t need her muddying the waters, that was for sure.

He slipped into the bathroom in the dark. Faint moonlight was leaking in from somewhere, dancing off the shiny black tiles. He saw it again, in his mind uninvited. The candlelight…the way it danced off of her…

He grabbed the faucet aggressively, like it had personally wronged him. It ran violently, the sound shattering the serene late night quiet like glass. He slipped off his rings and gathered the water in his hands. He splashed his face, shaking his head. Too many Manhattans or something. Too many distractions. Too many ways to try and get under her skin. He sighed and closed the faucet off.

His bed was a welcome embrace when he slipped into it, the cool satin sheets reminding him how hot his skin had become.

_____________________________________________________________

but put him in front of someone who is helplessly sweet and shy, where they can't fake their blushes or the way their hands tremble. put him in front of someone fierce and bitchy who isn't afraid to tell him what an asshole he is in front of god and everybody.