Page 2 of Reine's Salvation

Scarlett returned into the room carrying a tray with a tea pot, two cups, a glass of water, and a plate of cookies. She set the tray on the coffee table.

“Help yourself,” she said, while pouring tea into both cups. “So, where did you get your name, Reine?”

She sipped at her tea while waiting for him to answer. Reine reached for the water and took a long gulp. It was blessedly cool.

“Oh, it was raining the day I was born.” He paused, uncertain if he should tell her more. Deciding against it, he perused the cookies and decided on one with a thick coat of chocolate. “Thanks.” He took a bite, moaning in appreciation at the sweet flavor.

“You’re welcome. I made them myself and it looked like you could use some sugar in you.” Scarlett smiled.

“They’re delicious.” He picked another one. “Thanks again.”

Scarlett watched him as he ate. He shifted in his seat. Her intense gaze made him uncomfortable. It was almost as if his mother sat next to him, waiting for him to confess about something.

“Well, now that you seem to be feeling a bit better, I’m going to check to see if the boss is ready for you. Give me a minute.”

Reine swallowed hard.

Scarlett touched his shoulder. “Have no fear. Everything will be all right.”

She walked out, leaving him alone with his thoughts once more. Reine concentrated on the tulips again. Everything would be all right. He’d done nothing wrong. Perhaps his boss only wanted to see him to commend him on a great school year. Besides, he was a Guardian. He knew no fear. He’d battled more foul beasts than his boss had. He chuckled, imagining Aslan as a beast. The man was too good looking.

Suddenly, Scarlett appeared at the door, clearing her voice.

“Glad you’re feeling better. He’s ready. Follow me, Reinhard.” She laughed, the sound coming from deep within her chest and rolling out smoothly, like melted chocolate on toast. “What? You didn’t think I wouldn’t know your full name, did you?”

“Well, I’ll be damned.”

“It’s on your file. Do you know what it means?”

He shrugged. “Something about bravery, most of the Guardians’ names have something to do with that or battles or whatnot.”

She led him down a dimly lit corridor. He could see a closed door at the end of it.

“Yes, I agree. However, your name not only means brave, it also means hardy.” They stopped a few feet before reaching the door. “It’s that door right there.” Scarlett looked up at him, the kindness in her gaze only making him more nervous. “Endure Reine. Whatever happens, it will not be the end of the world. Go right in. Don’t hesitate. He’s waiting for you. Good luck.”

She gave him a little wave with her hand, turned on her heel, and left him standing in front of the impressive oak door. Reine stared at it. Doors. Always doors. Sins had hundreds of them, big, small, wide, narrow. They all led somewhere, be it heaven or hell. The problem with doors was he never knew what was behind them. He never knew what awaited on the other side. Sometimes, he could stop himself from entering, but other times, he had to go through. Reine took a deep breath. There was no going back. This time, he had to go through. He knocked on the door.

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