Page 57 of Unkindness of Crimson Ravens

“I am well, thank you.” I managed to keep my voice steady. “How are the children at the orphanage?” I cared not how obvious my intentions seemed when I changed the subject.

“Oh, they are great!” Florence exclaimed. “Charlotte has been asking about you. You must visit them soon.”

“The best caramel fudge has arrived!” Simon interrupted our awkward interaction as he placed a huge plate of dessert beforeme. “And so are our drinks.” He dropped at the seat near me, clapping his hands once. “Let our celebration begin!”

Four glasses of crimson liquid glared at me.

“To Cordelia and Francis, and their foolish—but very valuable—mission!” Roxanne met my gaze, raising her glass.

Everyone cheered. I followed their lead, but could not bring myself to drink the contents of my own. I knew it was bad manners, yet could not seem to force my hands to put the glass near my lips. The red liquid brought my mind back to the cabin, back to the red I saw on his lips before I left. Before I had kissed him.

For Moon’s sake, stop it, Cordelia.

“I added moonshine into your drink,” Simon whispered into my ear, pointing at my untouched glass.

A surprised laugh escaped my lips as I shook my head.

“I always keep my promises,” Simon shrugged with a serious look on his face.

“That is a very good trait to have.” I played along, keeping my own features as though we were discussing a very important topic until a genuine smile spread across my face. “Thank you.”

“Of course,” he smiled back at me. “How are you adjusting to our way of living?” he added quietly after a small pause.

I glanced at Roxanne and Florence before answering. They held each other’s hands as though invisible rope tied them together. The pair seemed to have forgotten everyone else’s presence.

“It’s overwhelming,” I admitted. “But I am all right.”

“I am glad to hear that.” He put his hand atop mine and for a moment he just looked at me, understanding written on his face. “Well, try your fudge, don’t languish!” he broke the spell.

“All right, all right.” I grabbed a spoon, smiling at his impatience.

The soft fudge melted on my tongue. I waited for the taste to reach my mind, I waited for the sweetness to overwhelm my senses. Yet nothing happened.

Frowning, I looked up at Simon.

“I figured you wouldn’t want any blood on it, so—” he answered my silent question. “Human food tastes little to us without blood on it.”

“Oh,” was all I said.

“Here,” Simon sighed. “Let me fix it for you.” He reached for his drink, pouring half of it on the fudge. “Try it now. It should taste just as good as before.” He grinned, “or probably even better, since I was the one to cook it.”

Despite my disappointment, I managed to put a smile on my face.

Taking a spoonful of fudge, I studied it carefully as though it could bite me. Crimson liquid dripped down my spoon, coloring the plate red. My stomach turned in disgust, yet the aroma reached my nostrils. The aching in my throat increased, urging me to feed the monster within. I put the spoon into my mouth.

“Heavens.” A moan escaped my lips without permission as I took another spoonful of my dessert. “This is the best fudge I have had in my entire existence,” I said out loud before I could stop myself. Everyone at the table burst into laughter.

“I am glad you like it!” Simon chuckled. “Or should I saylove it?”

“I love it,” I said with my mouth full, making everyone laugh even harder.

“I see you all are enjoying yourselves without me,” a low voice froze me in place.

Francis stood at the head of our table, amusement shining in his eyes.