What transpired? Are you injured?”He spoke audibly for her to hear. Molly shook her head, silent tears streaming down her cheeks. “Then from where does all this blood originate?”
Molly remained silent, merely gesturing towards her cabin, which had its door ajar. He cast a glance at Leah over Molly’s head, and shortly thereafter, she sensed the woman directing her back to Colton’s cabin.
“Come now, you are safe,” Leah said softly as she positioned Molly by the fire.
“There is no refuge for me,” Molly stated bitterly as a warm beverage was placed in her hands.
Colton entered the room abruptly, his eyes wide with intensity moments later.
Leah, assemble the boys. Currently.
They were absent for an extended period. Molly observed the sunrise but succumbed to slumber on Colton’s couch before witnessing its complete ascent. As a maid, she would typically have been horrified at the prospect of soiling the couch with the blood on her attire. However, she now felt desensitised to everything, including any thoughts necessitating obedience or attentiveness. How could she ever return to that state?
Upon opening her eyes, she realised that several hours had elapsed. The sun hung low once more, and the fire had dwindled to a faint glow. Colton occupied a chair opposite her, his gaze intent on the fading flames. She speculated whether he intended to exact retribution for the death of one of his kin. As if sensing her scrutiny, he turned his gaze towards her.
Molly, what is your current emotional state?He enquired as he straightened from his slouched posture. Molly removed the heavy blanket that enveloped her and cast it aside. She remained clad in the bloodstained garments that served as a stark reminder that this was not a dream. She had indeed taken a life, had she not?
Upon her silence, he rose to serve her tea. “It was an imprudent inquiry; naturally, you are not well.” He placed the cup in her hands, allowing the warmth to thaw her fingers, which felt like ice. She doubted she could ever acclimatise to this pervasive cold that penetrated her bones. Colton drew the chair nearer to sit beside her. “I wish for you to occupy the cabin adjacent to mine.” I will be able to hear you if you… If you require my assistance.
Will this occur nightly?Molly enquired vacantly. She placed the cup down without consuming a single sip, as her stomach felt incapable of accommodating any contents.
“No, I will ensure that.” Colton stated with a sombre tone. Molly was uncertain of his sincerity this time. Trusting anyone but herself had become increasingly difficult. With blood on her hands, she recognised that she would never be the same.
“Are you aware of Prince Jayce’s whereabouts?”Molly enquired while wiping blood from her hands. She envisioned his sullen expression, contemplating whether he would have slain those men for her sake. Was this a reality, or merely a figment of her imagination?
“We have not received information regarding his current location, but I will inform you as soon as we do.” Do you desire to return to the palace with him?
Affirmative. Although my treatment was suboptimal there, I experienced a greater sense of safety than I do here.” Molly swept her long hair behind her shoulders. She felt repugnant, every part of her felt decayed. She yearned to shed her skin and inhabit a new body.
“I understand that you may find it difficult to trust me, but I assure you that no one will harm you after tonight.” Colton leaned closer. He attempted to extend his hand but reconsidered.
“This evening.” Are you referring to the full moon?
“In the northern region, we commemorate each full moon.” “I initially intended to make tonight more enjoyable, but after the recent events, my plans altered.” Colton scratched his jaw, his attentive gaze fixed on her.
“How?” Will you cancel the event or whatever it is you intend to do?
No, it is not cancelled. A gathering will still occur; however, it will lack enjoyment. “Before the wolves dominate our bodies, I have a plan concerning those who intended you harm.” Colton unfastened his coat and retrieved a flat object encased in leather. He delicately placed it in her hands, as if attempting to avoid alarming her. “Will you be my esteemed guest?”
Molly unwrapped the leather and beheld her reflection glimmering in a sharp dagger. The hilt was adorned with small floral engravings and was sufficiently compact to be worn on a belt. She raised her gaze to him, her eyes questioning.
“A weapon should have been provided to you on your first night here, particularly in light of your experiences.” I was foolish for not equipping you sooner; I hope you can pardon me for this.
Molly raised the blade and gently ran her fingers along the medal. It was exquisite for an object so lethal. “Is this intended for my possession?”
