Erik’s bravado slips as he sits down across from me, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees. He glances warily at Dragonsbane when she sits down next to me.
“Can she be trusted?” he asks.
It’s a tricky question but I can’t imagine Erik would have anything to say that Dragonsbane shouldn’t hear. Besides, if she thinks I’m trusting her, it will be easier to keep other things secret.
I nod.
“How’s Seven faring?” he asks, lowering his voice. “I’d imagine he’s not used to being a prisoner.” Though he keeps his words indifferent, there’s a flicker of real concern behind them. They are brothers, after all, and friends besides.
“He made an exceptional prisoner, actually,” I tell him, leaning back against the plush cushions.
“Made?” Erik asks, eyes widening. The careless facade slips an
