The girl was shaking so hard I could feel the tremors vibrating through my own bones.
I kept my arm hooked firmly through hers, guiding her toward her room.
Poor thing was so fragile she reminded me of a fine porcelain doll ready to shatter.
"Breath, Amaya. Just breathe. You’re inside now. The walls are thick, and the locks are solid," I said, my voice pitched in that soothing tone I used when I needed to disarm someone.
"He was going to hurt me," Amaya whispered.
Her eyes were wide, the pupils blown out with terror.
"I know. I know." I led her to her room, taking both of her cold, clammy hands in mine. "Look at me. Look at my eyes, Amaya."
She lifted her gaze, her lower lip trembling.
"You are a Valak guest. In this house, that makes you sacred. Do you understand? That man was
