Chapter 3

“I’m going to go back to the castle.”

“All right. Good—” He stopped as his gaze took in his empty glass. “What happened to my drink?”

“You finished it. See you later.” Still holding on to the edge of the table, Christian managed to stand, barely. His head swimming, he turned in the direction of the doors leading outside. He’d feel better as soon as he got some air. Even snow would be welcome at this point. Anything to get out of the stuffy, sweaty canteen.

Finally he reached the heavy glass door and flung it open, stumbling outside. Freezing air hit him immediately, stealing his breath. The snow had momentarily stopped, at least. He took a step, then two. He leaned against a lamppost and closed his eyes.

A throat cleared.

Christian opened his eyes with no little reluctance since he was pretty sure he knew who stood before him.

Gabriel