Page 96 of Bound By Darkness

I hold his stare, then ask, “How long will you be gone?”

He exhales, adjusting the watch on his wrist.“Hopefully, no more than a few days.”

I watch him carefully, searching for anything he’s not saying.“That’s all you’re going to tell me?”

“It’s all you need to know,” he says, leaning down and trailing his fingers along my jaw before tilting my chin up.“Please,mo chroí,behave yourself while I’m gone.”

Without breaking eye contact, I reach up, brushing a hand over his chest.“I always behave.”

His chuckle is low, amused but not convinced.He presses a quick, firm kiss to my lips, then pulls away.“I’ll be back soon.”

I watch as he leaves, the door clicking shut behind him.The moment he’s gone, I reach for my phone.

Time to set things in motion.

Aoife:I’m in.

The response is immediate.

Cian:Where’d you disappear to last night?

Aoife:When my boss started that fight, I got scared and left.Went back to my room and crashed.

Cian:Probably for the best.

Aoife:So, what’s the next move?

There’s a pause before the bubbles pop onto my screen.

Cian:I don’t want to put it in text, and there are too many people around for me to call.It’s not safe.Once I’m back in Belfast, I’ll be in touch.

I stare at the message, unease prickling beneath my skin.It’s too vague.Too convenient.

Whatever game he’s playing, I won’t be left on the sidelines.I’ve spent enough time watching from behind locked doors, told I wasn’t ready, that I didn’t belong.But I’ve seen enough.Learned enough.And I’m done waiting for someone else’s plan to unfold.

If Cian wants to keep secrets, let him.It’s time I start putting my own plan into motion.And that begins with Ruairi.We need to talk, not as brother and sister, but as two people who want the same crown.

Whether he’s ready for that or not.

Aoife:We need to talk.

Ruairi:About?

I stare at the screen, knowing I have to word this perfectly.

Aoife:I’m tired of this war between us.I miss my family.We need to find a way forward.A truce.

There’s a long pause.I’m not sure he’s going to respond.

Ruairi:Not at O’Sullivan’s hotel.

Aoife:Name the place.

Ruairi:The Cobblestone Tavern.7 PM.

I’m familiar with the small pub.It’s public enough to be safe and private enough for a real conversation.

Aoife:I’ll be there.

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