I paced near the clearing, my cloak wrapped tightly around me. The night air was sharp, but my insides burned with impatience. Caius was late.
A rustle in the trees made me whirl around, my muscles tensing. Then, as if peeling away from the shadows, he appeared.
I exhaled sharply. “Caius.”
His lips curled slightly. “Finally calling me by name? I’m honored.”
I crossed my arms, watching him carefully. “I don’t trust you.”
“Good.” His smirk deepened. “You shouldn’t.”
Something about his ease set my teeth on edge. I didn’t have time for his games. “Whose side are you really on?” I asked. “What do you gain from this?”
Caius tilted his head, his gaze flicking over the darkened treetops. Like he was listening for something. Or someone.
“You assume I serve someone,” he said finally. “That
