Chapter 61: Tense Talk pt. 1

Emily

The whole walk to the feasting hall, my knees are like water. It’s all I can do not to tip over. If it wasn’t for Azriel and Thomas supporting me by either arm, I’d be a puddle on the floor.

Leander strides ahead of us between Aisling and Ceal, a pillar of indignant strength. Just once does he look back, and it’s as if that single glimpse of him sends shockwaves down the corridor. Thomas and Azriel don’t seem to register it, but for me, it’s seismic. My joints are too stiff to move quickly, so we shuffle along in a kind of funeral procession towards whatever hard conversation is coming.

I ought to be afraid, but somehow I can’t manage it.

For all his anger, a tiny voice inside me says Leander won’t hurt us. He might rage and stomp and make a fuss, but the possibility of actual violence has melted away. Whatever lies ahead is bound to be uncomfortable, but far from lethal.