The pendant lay in pieces thanks to Eldric, and Samai was finally free from the curse's hold. She'd bounce back in no time—just needed proper rest and the medicine he'd prescribed.
Samai was overflowing with gratitude, but exhaustion hit harder. Days without sleep had left her wrecked. The curse had robbed her of rest, no matter how desperately she'd tried. Now liberated, a crushing wave of exhaustion threatened to drown her.
"Eldric... Lirael..." she slurred, barely audible. "Do you mind if I pass out first? We'll talk later—dinner's my treat. I owe you guys everything."
Eldric hadn't just broken the curse keeping her awake—he'd exposed the bastard behind this. Of course she'd repay him properly... once her eyelids didn't feel like sandbags. And Lirael? Without her introduction, Samai
