Page 134 of Mercy & Her Devils

“Don’t…” I gasp.

But it’s too late.

Kai has turned to wrench open the door.

Instantly, the storm licks its way into the corridor. The wind howls, buffeting across my face. Unstable on my feet, I’m almost knocked backward.

Lark shields me, grasping my hand.

Kai prowls out onto the staircase, before gesturing us to follow him.

My heart is pounding in my chest. Adrenaline surges through me.

To my surprise, once we’ve stepped outside, deliberately leaving the door open so that it’ll bang shut behind us, Kai immediately drops back.

“What are you doing?” I yell, peering over my shoulder at him.

“If someone gets shot in the back,” Kai’s face, hidden in the shadow of his hood, is unreadable, “then I want it to be me.”

Now, there’s my Prince Charming.

Maybe this isn’t a traditional fairy tale. But still, I think that’s the most romantic thing anyone’s ever said to me.

“Come on.” Lark tightens his hold on my hand.

Together we edge to the side of the high staircase.

I feel queasy, when I peer over the side.

The creek is a long way down. It’s churning wildly, threatening to break its banks. Its roar is deafening.

I shiver, finding each step with difficulty against the driving rain that’s blinding me. The wood is slippery, and I stiffen my shoulders, focusing on not losing my footing.

I cling to the handrail.

All of a sudden, my ankle turns under me. “Fuck.”

My stomach swoops.

I’m going to fall…

Lark cusses, clinging to me tighter and wrenching my shoulder. He twists, pulling me against his chest to firmly hold me around the waist.

“I’ve got you,” he breathes.

Our hearts are both thudding.

Our intent gazes meet.

“Thank you,” I whisper.

He nods, carefully placing me back down.

My ankle is sore, but I can put weight on it.

I wince but resolutely take another step.

Lark’s gaze is concerned, and he slows his pace.

---