It was daytime when we arrived, but now the sky is darkening, the last light fading.
“I’m sorry,” I say quietly. “Are you… disappointed in me or something?”
Irina turns away, pulling the man closer like a child she’s shielding. She shakes her head with one of those dry, unreadable looks. “No, that’s not what I mean. I’m just… surprised.”
“Claire,” Niko says my name for the first time, and it startles me. I glance over at him.
“Come in. No need to stand outside.”
I nod and start walking forward. Pretty trots at my heels like we’re old friends. Behind me, I hear the grown man start crying again, whining that his puppy doesn’t love him anymore.
What the hell is that about?
The inside of the house takes my breath away. It’s massive, cold air and polished stone, high ceilings, warm light
