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And he ate and listened while Cassius filled him in on what had happened in three short days. Sorin. Talwyn. Eliza. Saylah. All of it. Because Cassius knew he needed something to occupy his mind or his thoughts would consume him. Just as he’d kept him company in the dead of night on a ship, or on a balcony in the Black Halls.

When he finished, Scarlett was nestled on the bed, leaning against a stack of pillows. He could tell she was lost in her own thoughts, letting Cassius do all the talking. Cyrus flopped down next to her, finally full, and she reached over, grabbing his hand.

“I’m sorry I took so long to come for you,” she whispered.

He shrugged. “Sounds like you were pretty busy, Darling.”

Tears welled suddenly in her eyes. “You are my family, Cyrus. Do not think that you are any less important—”

“I didn’t mean it like that,” he interrupted. “This is war. I understand. I’m glad you got Ashtine out first. How is Neve?”

Scarlett blinked at the sudden change of subject, wiping at her damp eyes. “Sleeping. Do you know what…”

Cyrus shook his head as she trailed off. “They separated us. I do not know where she was or what she endured.” Scarlett nodded, gaze dropping to her lap. Guilt. He could see it settle into her shoulders, adding to the weight she already carried. He squeezed her fingers still wrapped around his hand. “We’re back now, Scarlett. That’s what matters.”

Until he had to tell them just how thoroughly he’d fucked them over. Because if the Sorceress was free when he fulfilled this bargain…

Silence fell, filled with a thick tension.

“There’s no need to fret over me,” Cyrus said, bringing an arm up to rest behind his head. “I’m clean. You’ve fed me. Now let me sleep.”

“Are you telling us to get out?” Scarlett gasped in mock outrage.

“Yes,” he answered, releasing her hand and giving her a light shove. “And for the love of your mother, please do not knock on my door before dinner tomorrow evening.”

Scarlett got to her feet with an unimpressed glare. “I’ll let that comment slide this time.”

“I’ll take full advantage of the pass,” he returned with a wink. “Get your royal ass out of my rooms.”

She smiled, features softening. “I’m glad you’re back, Cyrus.”

“Me too, Darling.”

He could tell she wanted to say more, but she didn’t, heading for the door. Rayner fell into step beside her, and they began murmuring amongst themselves again. Scarlett nodded at whatever Rayner was saying, her shadows appearing and trailing behind them.

Cyrus sighed. “You don’t have to stay here. I know you prefer your own space.”

“I’m fine here,” Cassius replied.

He pushed onto his elbows, leveling him with a glare. “That was me saying get the fuck out.”

“I know what you were saying, and I’m still fine here,” he said, stretching his legs out and crossing his ankles.

“I do not need to be watched.”

“I’m not watching you. I’m staying here with you.”

“It’s not needed.”

Cassius shrugged, tipping his head back against the chair and closing his eyes.

“Fucker,” Cyrus muttered, before he rolled onto his side away from the Avonleyan. He knew Cass had reopened his eyes. Could feel them searing into his back.

Not watching me, my ass.

But he didn’t say anything else. It was probably selfish of him, but he welcomed the company. Maybe the nightmares wouldn’t come for him with another here. Wishful thinking, he knew, but he was fresh out of hope, so denial would have to do.

Chapter16