VINCENZO

Life hadn't been this sweet. The reason for this statement wasn't sorely tied to the three-day break from school or the sticks of licorice I was so earnestly munching. Instead, life was sweet because I had proven my majesty. I had expressed my power.

I had an eye for something, I went after it, I got it.

The happenings of last night were still fresh in my mind. The bitch. I'd claimed her like I'd said I would. I'd drunk from her cup, taking in every inch—every piece of her.

A deep chuckle tore through my throat. I held myself, careful not to choke on the licorice.

"Not cool,"...