Page 29 of Unkindness of Crimson Ravens

Caleb staggered backwards—surprised at my skill or boldness, I was not sure—but quickly collected himself.

A lazy grin appeared on Caleb’s face as he put himself back into his stance.

A rich smell of sour and sweet invaded my senses; my eyes traced the source of the smell: a thin red line was located right above Caleb’s tunic.

A shiver went through me at the sight of a fresh wound, I could only hope it would not distract me. The uncomfortable prickling in my throat increased, but the anger in me refused to give into the feeling.

Caleb followed my gaze, tracing his fingers across the injury. The triumph of a small victory spread through my chest, although I could not allow myself to celebrate until this nonsense was over. Caleb’s cocky smile had finally disappeared, leaving anger to take its place.

If he had not considered killing me before, I knew now the promise was long gone. I’d provoked him further by cutting his skin, though there was no part of me that regretted the move.

Caleb attempted to assess me once again, but I charged, preventing him from doing so. This time Caleb blocked every blow I threw at him with ease.

The sound of banging metal rang in my ears. Caleb got closer with each move, trapping me against the wall. Panic overwhelmed my senses, and I chided myself for letting him get his way.

My back hit the wall, yet Caleb had no intention of stepping away. Although his blade had not touched my flesh, it was inches away from doing so.

Each blow became harder to set back; my arms screamed in protest. Stray strands of hair flew into my face. Cold sweat broke through my skin, causing my palms to lose their grip.He is going to end me, right here, right now.

Everything slowed when the loud sound of metal hitting the marble stopped my movements in place.

My sword had fallen to the floor and with it my heart had as well.

Caleb’s dagger met my uncovered neck; my mind wandered, waiting to meet the Gods.

I drew a small breath, and wondered if it was my last.

Chapter 11

Twelfth Moon

“Enough, Caleb.” Roxanne rushed toward us. “Leave her alone.” Her voice stayed calm, yet the coldness in her tone left no room for debate.

Caleb’s blade did not leave my neck, though it did not touch it either. Our gazes locked. The fire in his eyes met my own.

“I know you,” I mumbled in a whisper, studying this man’s sickly familiar features.

“I highly doubt it,” he hissed through gritted teeth. “I don’t consort with royalty,” Caleb spat out the last word.

“Put your weapon down. Now!” Roxanne barked at the man, forcing herself between us.

Caleb reluctantly lowered his weapon without taking his eyes off me.

“Would you give us a moment?” Roxanne glanced in my direction; nothing in her tone was nice nor polite.