Page 123 of Death of the Glass Angel
“Oh. You met him in the ruins.”
“I met the songbird, sure. Is that the real you, though?”
“I don’t know. Maybe. You sort of forget yourself when you play a part for so long.” Talon said mournfully. “And I’ve played many roles.”
He drank with desperation, as though hoping the alcohol would wash away his memories. More than injury tormented him.
“Okay. Say you’re alone and off the mission. What do you do?”
“I gamble,” Talon said. “The thrill of winning after a chance to lose it all makes me feel alive.” He chuckled into his drink. “That’s why Felsin lost so much coin yesterday.”
“Don’t tell me you’ve squandered all your pay on card games.”
“Why shouldn’t I? I don’t have a future to plan for.”
Saddened by his answer, Des sat beside him. “You’ve been, um,” She hesitated. “Understanding of my situation. I always assumed anyone who found out would think I was crazy.”
“Believe me when I say I understand.” Talon insisted.
What did he mean by that? As he set his glass down, his collar parted, revealing the burn scar on his neck.
“Those scars,” Des said. “What happened?”
Talon’s face hardened. Des could tell he was erecting walls around himself.
“Janus hates fire,” Des explained. “Every time she sees your scars, I get pulled out. It reminds her of Eros.”
Talon softened, sighing. “I started a fire. Used magic when I shouldn’t have, in a place I shouldn’t have.” He stood, dusting himself off. “I was twelve. It’s been long enough. It’s just a scar, now.”
“I’m sorry,” Des said. “Though I guess I’m also relieved. I was worried the tale was much worse.”
“And then you’d feel bad for me?” Talon smirked. “Can’t have that.” He closed his eyes, frustrated. “I really shouldn’t be telling you any of this.”
“Why not?”
Talon didn’t answer. Whatever cracks had formed in his mask were repaired now.
Piece by piece, Des would pry his shell off. She wanted to meet the man hiding within.
“How about I ask you something simple?” Des stood. “How old are you?”
Talon brightened up. “Guess.”
“Twenty-five.”
“Close.” He glanced down the slope. “It’s a long walk back. Are you sure you’ll be able to make it?”
Scoffing, Des pushed him gently. “If you’re going to tease me, pick something that makes sense.”
“Alright.” He grinned. “Shall I bring up your little ladder slide? Or how about-”
“Stop.” Des flushed. She searched for a jab but found nothing.
She didn’t know the real Talon.
“Gemellus told me the story about the Valerian vault.” Talon continued, advancing toward her. “Is it true that you-”
“I wasfourteen.”
