Page 10

I watch my little witch sit at the very front of the ship, her nose stuck in a book as we charge through the waves. She’s hardly been able to look at me since we boarded and left the island.

She blames me. I know she does. We gave her a home. Promised to keep her safe. And we failed to deliver on that promise.

I failed.

Lilith .

I loved her entirely once. I worshipped her. Protected her. She devoured me in every way a woman can. All the best ways.

And then she died.

And Ashe came into my life. My heart. And I love her just as fiercely.

I don’t know what Lilith wants with her. But it won’t be good.

I swore to protect Lilith for the rest of my life. A bond made in marriage.

But I will tear that bond to shreds if she dares lay a finger on my Poppet Doll.

No matter the cost.

Poppet looks back at me, knowing I am watching her. The snow is still falling. It coats the ship's deck and shrouds us in deep grey clouds. It settles beautifully on her cloak and disappears entirely in her silver hair. I love her completely. I will do anything to keep her safe. To keep her mine.

If I had to, I would kill her and claim her soul if the alternative was to lose her forever.

She smiles at me. A warm and forgiving smile. And she shuffles over a little, inviting me to join her. I do. I always will. She settles into my arms with a sigh, and I hold her close.

‘I had a wonderful Christmas with you all,’ she says. ‘Those months on the island were the best of my life.’

‘Mine too.’

‘We’ll get it again,’ she assures me, saying the words with utter conviction. ‘If we have to fight for a little bit of peace, then we will.’ She looks up at me with a soft smile. ‘Together. Right?’

‘Of course.’ I kiss her lips. They’re cold from the chill in the air, but her breath is warm and full of life. ‘Together. Always.’

And I pray that this time, I’m not lying.

‘Merry Christmas, Dorian.’

‘Merry Christmas, my wonderful and wild witch. And here’s to the many more yet to come.’

The end.

For now.