Page 74 of Unkindness of Crimson Ravens

Painfully slowly, I turned my head in the direction of the window I used to search for the moment I took a step into the estate. Second floor, the last window on the left.

Our gazes locked.

With a blank expression, he just stared. The eyes that haunted my sleep now studied me carefully. I studied them back with the intention to forget them forever.

“Cordelia?” Francis’ hand brushed over my shoulder.

His blond hair was brushed back, his blue eyes were now dull. The cruel smile was long gone from his face.

My gaze hardened. My heartbeat quickened, though not from anxiety.

I needed him to feel the pain he inflicted upon me, burn in it forever and be haunted by it every time he dared closing his eyes.

I wanted retribution.

I needed him to suffer.

He hurts me!My sister wailed.He hurts me, Mother!

Nothing could stop me from slicing his throat and drying him empty. Nothing could stop me from crushing every bone in his body.

My mouth watered in anticipation. The insides of my throat painfully ached.

“Princess, we have to leave.” Francis got a hold of my wrist, tugging me out. “Now,” he hissed.

Was it fear I saw in Timothy’s eyes?

He moved the curtain, his silhouette slowly disappeared behind the window.

My lungs expanded.

The gate banged closed behind us as I freed myself from Francis’ grip.

“Dear Gods and the Moon,” Francis swore, falling into step behind me. “They were moments away from attacking,” he groaned. “What’s the matter with you?”

“I’m fine,” I said, rushing towards our horses.

“You must have some before we go,” Francis pressed the flask into my hand. “The last thing we need is you attacking anyone.”

“I’m fine,” I bit out, mounting Annabelle.

“You wanted to attack that man.” Francis countered. “Who even was that?” he asked, mounting his horse.

“No one,” I ordered Annabelle to take me home.

“Wait up, Princess!”

The nausea that had tortured me the whole day finally threatened to break loose. Even the cold winter couldn’t calm my burning flesh. The air thickened.

“I’m fine,” I mumbled, breathing in through my nose. “I’m fi—” A groan escaped me, forcing me to halt my horse.

Breathe!I ordered myself, dismounting.Brea—

My stomach emptied itself out.

Long-awaited relief washed over me as I sat on my knees, catching my breath. My hands pressed into the crunchy snow; the cold brought comfort to my skin.

“Cordelia?” Francis’ cold hand felt my forehead. “You are paler than the snow.”