Chapter 4

“You have a very nice place here,” I tell him.

He doesn’t retract his stare, consuming me. “It’s nice having you. You and your friend will surely stay safe from the storm.” He leans forward, closes in on Kel, and says, “There’s a small cut on your forehead. Shall I have Bertram take care of it? He’s quite good with a first-aid kit.”

“Please,” Kel replies.

“In the meantime, I will have Bertram bring you a hot cup of tea with an inexpensive but tasty cognac. The two of you need to place yourselves in front of the fire and stay warm. Both of you look extremely chilled. Let me introduce my other guests to you.”

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