We were up before dawn and riding hard by first light. When we reached the river where I had once dived in to save a child, we stopped to water the horses.
“Hey Alec … care for a swim?” I teased.
Leo actually chuckled.
“You go in that water, you won’t be coming out,” Darien said flatly.
“Really? Because I did.”
Leo explained the story to Allissa — the child struggling, the rapids, me barely making it out. Allissa’s eyes went wide.
“That’s incredible, Celeste!”
“Thanks, Lyss.” I shot her a smile.
“I feel sick thinking about it. I’m locking you up when we get back.” Darien mounted his horse.
“I already gave you my answer to that.”
He shook his head and we rode on.
* * *
Several hours later, the black towers of Specter rose over the ridge. Home. The word arrived in my chest before
