Page 113 of A Fate so Cruel

“She wouldn’t allow him to walk free. Not after what he did.”

Selina shrugged. “Politics are complicated. If there’s no proof to keep him behind bars, then there’s not much she can do.”

“She could tear his head off.”

“She could, but then she’d probably just alienate the governor and his council even more. It’s no secret that Whiteridge and Nàdair have their issues.” Rion’s jaw clenched and she patted his arm. “Don’t worry, once we get the information we need and weed out the ones involved, I’ll help you raze the whole damn place.”

“Feeling destructive?”

“Vengeful.” Her voice darkened. “I’ve seen what that poison does, and if he’s the one responsible for its creation, then he should have it shoved down his own throat.”

“That’d be too quick for the amount of pain he’s caused.”

“Maybe so, but at least he wouldn’t be able to sneak out again and hurt anyone else.”

Rion stared at the invite. “I’m willing to bet this secret meeting is exactly what we’re looking for.”

She crinkled her nose. “Please tell me we’re not going.”

“I don’t know. We’d get a clear view of their faces and it might be fun to see you squirm for a change.”

“That’s cruel. I wouldn’t send my worst enemy into that place. Just his eyes gave me the creeps.”

“It’s a good thing you aren’t my enemy then.” She didn’t respond to that; in fact, she turned away and studied the civilians filing by. Rion swallowed hard and decided to press his luck. “You mentioned dinner.”

“Because I’m starving.”

“Would you like to go?”

She turned to him and a wide smile broke across her face. “Why, Rion of Brónach, are you asking me out on a date?”

“I’d like to.”

Seriousness suddenly returned to her face. Her lips parted. “I don’t know—”

“One date,” he clarified.

“We need to find the blueprints—”

“After then. Tonight.”

“Rion, we have a job to do and I don’t want—”

“Who said we weren’t going to talk about the job?” She peered up at him. “We can even take the blueprints with us if that makes you feel better.”

He allowed her to think another moment before she finally nodded. “Fine. But I warn you, I’m expensive.”

“I’ll be sure to empty the family vault.”

Chapter Nineteen

They ambled toward the library, stopping along the way to study different trinkets as various stalls. Apparently, Selina didn’t have enough in their room already. Nothing ever seemed to satisfy her.

Rion studied the shadows, watching for anyone who might be under Foley’s employ. His involvement complicated things.

Rion kept his magic in check for Selina’s sake, just so he wouldn’t scare off the vendors, but even with some knowing he was present in the city, not everyone recognized him. A relief, especially when he could engage in normal conversation.

Once again, Selina paid to have their items delivered to their room.

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