Gateway to Fourline (The Fourline Trilogy Book 1) (27 page)

“I’m sorry, Sister,” Nat mumbled as she shifted from one foot to another.

“Not a problem. I was hoping to run into you. Maybe not so literally, but I did want to see you. How are you, Natalie?”

“Fine, I’m fine, Sister. Just a little distracted today.”

“Hmm. I suppose you are wondering about Soris?” Nat’s head shot up when Barba said his name. The lines around Barba’s eyes deepened. “Ethet took him back to Fourline shortly after you returned. He is in good hands, Natalie,” she said reassuringly. But Nat felt anything but reassured. She wanted to run as far from the Sister as she could.

“I need to get to class.” A knot formed in Nat’s throat. “It’s . . . it’s good to see you,” she lied and pressed past Barba.

“You, too, Natalie,” Barba said. Her eyes lingered on Nat’s wrist when she opened the Science Center door. Nat glanced down at the edge of the vine and spear pattern, then at Barba. “There is a reason your markings never faded, Natalie. Please find me if you’d ever like to learn why.” The Sister gave her a sad smile and walked away, leaving Nat so rattled her hand shook as she let go of the door.

On the Meldon Plain
will be released on January 19, 2016. Preorder today.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Thanks to my agent, Valerie Noble, for her belief in this story and her encouragement. Special thanks to the editors at Skyscape for all their guidance and support. Thanks to Nina M. for sharing her social-media savvy and answering all my ridiculous questions. There will be more. Thanks to John O. for responding to my questions about college financial aid without ever asking why. I have a family of the best cheerleaders imaginable. This book is dedicated to my husband, who teaches me each day that life is meant to be lived to its fullest. Thank you to my children for their support, patience, and inspiration. Finally, thanks to my mom for feeding me with books and teaching me how to tell a story.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Photo © 2015 Ally Klosterman

Pam Brondos grew up in Wyoming. After college and a brief stint in Asia, she returned to the wide-open spaces of the West. She is a science-fiction and fantasy junkie with a penchant for historical nonfiction. For more information on Brondos and the Fourline Trilogy, please visit her website at
pamalabrondos.com
.