“Fine,” I say, my tone clipped, my voice hoarse. Because I’m not, and he knows it, and now I am weak. I avert my gaze, but something pulls it back again. “I’m fine.”
He studies my face, and I study his. He is younger than I first thought. Beyond the warrior physique, the layers of grime, and unkempt hair, there is brightness in his eyes and a youthful glow to his skin. I think he may be in his mid-twenties at most.
The noises behind him get louder and faster. “You’d best be taking your leave now, Princess. The lad’s okay. You did a brave thing coming here.”
I turn to Ryan, who is watching me with a strange expression.
The horrible wolf roars.
Ryan’s nose wrinkles. “I wish I’d never f*****g come here,” he mutters again.
I take a deep breath, then stuff the spare bandages and the water
