39

Though you're often pushed to deal with those who want something out of you, it's more pleasant to keep away from all that when you can. If it makes people afraid to approach, so much the better.

Beaumont lets out an irritated sigh in Dominique's direction. "Can't you use the door like everyone else?"

Dominique looks sheepish. "I lost my key!"

"Marvelous," Beaumont says. He flings out an arm. "Didn't think to wait for us to arrive, didn't think to check with Emile at the lodge…the heir to the de Saint Martel name, everyone!"

Dominique bows ostentatiously. Asher stifles a laugh.

"We'll let you in," Beaumont says. "But if it happens again, I'll leave you out here."

Dominique turns to you with an imploring expression, his dark eyes very large. "And then," he says, "I'll freeze. To. Death. But Royal KLYMENE will take pity on me. Won't you?"