Page 103 of Fate's Wicked Oath

“He won’t,” Idris said.

Faren frowned at the former Valiant Knight. “Why would she believe him, then?” Unless she truly believed she didn’t have any other hope or choice?

Idris shrugged. “The Valiant doesn’t leave much to believe in. You take what you can get.”

“Freedom is all she’s ever wanted,” Noble added.

“Can’t say I blame Mariana for that,” Hattie mused.

“Blame me for what?” Mariana asked, descending the stairs.

She was dressed in her customary black, her armor and weapons already strapped in place. Her pack and satchel wereslung over one cloaked shoulder. The sight of her made Faren’s lungs seize.

“I blame you for shit travel weather,” Faren said, gesturing toward the pouring rain. “You just love a miserable journey, don’t you?”

“Misery loves company.” She elbowed him in the side as she passed, heading for the front door. When she reached it, she wrenched it open, exposing them to the roar of the rain and a rush of cold air. “Ready, Kieran?”

Faren sagged, but he forced his voice into a bored tone. “Ready as I’ll ever be,” he replied, following her out onto the covered porch.

His legs were stiff and unsteady. His heart frantic. He wasreeling, but there would be plenty of time for him to fret over the Fate of his Order and territory as they traveled back to Fenrir City. His only hope was that he might uncover more about Mariana, too—not because of his duty, but because he…worried about her.

Hecaredabout her.

Which was even worse than wanting her.

The others followed them out, lingering under the eaves of the porch. Faren shook hands with Idris and Noble, gave Anya and Hattie friendly hugs. Each of them, in turn, wished him a fortunate Fate—their words loaded, their tones apologetic, their unfinished conversation weighing heavily.

Meanwhile, Mariana watched with her arms folded, her features pinched.

When Faren had finished his goodbyes, he turned toward the rain, feeling waterlogged already.

Only then—on the precipice of their departure—did Mariana pipe up. “Your wedding was lovely,” she said to Anya in a quick mumble.

“Thank you for coming,” the innkeeper replied. “You’re welcome back anytime.”

Idris grunted.

Mariana scowled. “I don’t need your welcome to return when I please.”

Hattie made a dismissive, mocking little squeak.

Anya smiled. “Well, you have it.”

“Why?” Mariana asked.

Anya shrugged. “I’ve decided that you deserve a little kindness.”

Mariana huffed and strode out into the rain.

Faren offered them a lopsided smile. “I hope we haven’t caused too much of an interruption to your merriment.”

“Not any more than the rain.” Anya patted his arm. “Good luck in Fenrir, Faren. I do hope we cross paths again. You’ll always have a soft place to land in Waldron.”

37

It’s Still a Bad Idea

Mariana