The Girl He Marked by Laila Callaway novel Chapter 3

Axel's POV.

The whole class looks at us. Grace looks really embarrassed and uncomfortable; I hate Mr. Baxter for putting her on the spot like that.

'We've discussed it and we think that, although it is an important factor, we don't believe that the company should consider it part of their Corporate Social Responsibility.'

Mr. Baxter raises an eyebrow at me and sits on his desk, crossing his arms over his chest.

'Oh And why is that'

I smirk. He's trying to pick on us to call us out, but he doesn't realize how smart I am.

'Because there is a nature reserve less than a mile away that encompasses enough of the marsh that the business would not greatly affect, nor have a negative impact on, the species that inhabit it. As long as the company maintains a good working relationship with the nature trust, it shouldn't be considered part of their moral duty to plan around it.'

That shuts him up.

Mr. Baxter nods once, his expression irritated.

'Very good. Any other pairs care to weigh in on those thoughts'

The attention comes off us and I turn to Grace with a smirk. She's looking at me with wide eyes.

'That was amazing,' she whispers.

I shrug. 'Just you wait till our date, Strawberries.'

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The weather is still hot at lunch, so the seven of us sit on the field to eat.

I lay down on my back on the grass, looking up at the sky. Grace, obviously feeling more comfortable with me, lies down on her back, too, but she rests her head on my chest.

We soak up the sun for half an hour, my girl gets some sun cream from reception, so she doesn't burn. Adorable.

I trail my fingers up and down her arm, and my mate sighs with happiness. I'm equally as content, lying on the grass with my eyes closed.

The rest of the day passes quite fast. Grace and I have a free period and math together after lunch.

After school, she walks home, and I drive back to mine.

'I'm home,' I call out as I walk through the door.

Mum calls me into the kitchen. Both of my parents are sitting at the table, I pull up a chair next to them.

'How was school How was Grace' Mum asks excitedly.

'It was good. The teacher tried to catch us out, thinking we weren't listening.'

Mum smirks. 'Bet you answered perfectly, didn't you'

I nod, probably looking as smug as I feel.

'Our son is such a genius,' Mum comments and Dad nods in agreement.

I roll my eyes at them.

'I'm meeting Grace at 6, so I'll leave in about two hours.'

'Okay. Have you planned what you're going to wear'

I scrunch up my nose at my mum's question. 'No, obviously not.'

'You have to wear something nice! Make sure she knows you've made an effort.'

Now, she's making me nervous. I thought I'd just wear jeans and a t—shirt.

'I was thinking jeans and a t—shirt.' I look to my dad for advice.

'Go with a muscle—fit one, show off your muscles, and pick smart jeans,' Dad comments.

'And make sure your trainers are clean!' Mum adds.

I roll my eyes and get up from the table.

'Thanks, guys.'

I take a shower and do some work. At a quarter to six, I drive to the center of town.

After finding a parking spot, I walk over to the town square and send a text to Grace, letting her know that I'm here.

A few minutes later, a flash of red hair catches my eye. My beautiful mate walks over to me, looking stunning.

She's let her hair down and it's swaying behind her as she walks. She's wearing a yellow headband with a bow on it. She's changed into another cute dress and sandals, and she's even painted her little toes.

She looks beautiful and adorable at the same time.

When she reaches me, I lean in and kiss her cheek, making her blush.

'You look beautiful,' I tell her.

She plays with her hands nervously. 'Thank you. You look really good.'

I chose my white, muscle—fit t—shirt. It shows off my arms nicely and makes me look extra tanned.

'Are you ready for your tour, my lady' I ask dramatically, holding out my hand to her.

She giggles and slides her small hand into mine. 'Why, of course, Sir, lead the way.'