The coldness of night settled around me as I slipped through the dim streets, making my way back to our inn. I hugged the edges of buildings, trying to blend into the shadows. Ronan had stayed with Regina, refusing to leave her side even for a moment. I couldn't blame him. If I had a sibling hovering between life and death, I wouldn't leave either.
But one of us had to get the money.
Lord Roderick had been less than helpful. After hearing my plea, he'd laughed in my face and told me he "might" consider helping if I spent the night warming his bed. The gleam in his eyes made it clear what kind of "warming" he meant.
I'd nearly slapped him. Only the thought of Regina's lifeless body stopped me.
Instead, I'd made a hasty retreat, mind racing with alternatives. Our rooms at the inn still held a few valuables—Regina's weapons, some of our clothing. Not worth seventy coins, but maybe I could barter with someone. There had to be a way.
