Lessons in magic from a mysterious boy who belonged to a hidden Ferisher court called the Wild – I couldn’t think of anything that would horrify my parents more. Therefore, the proposition became exponentially more enticing.

You are extraordinarily capable.” That rang more like an observation than flattery, and for that reason, it settled into an empty space in her soul as the highest praise of all.

Grimspace steals my soul a sliver at a time, and I love it too much to mind.

How am I interfering?” he asked softly. “Forget butterfly wings causing a hurricane; you’re a tsunami of nope.

That she could smile while I hurt in ways I could not understand – it broke something in me. I did not understand the heart of her, then. She is made of brightness, too much for sorrow. Such a glad spirit – I am humbled now that she shared it with me.

At this point, she would slap a nun for a ham sandwich.

You really have no idea, do you?” His voice holds a wondering note. I’m wary. “Of what?” “How incredible you are.

Y’did some backcountry doctoring. Right brave, that was. But her thigh looks bad, and we’re a day out of Salvation.

I refused to show my fear. Lock it down, Huntress.

He bent his head and brushed my lips with his. His hair spilled against my forehead, sleek and startling. Shock held me immobile, shock – and something else. Part of me wanted to lean into him.