Cut to the Quick

For some reason, those words cut him to the quick. Piercing him more deeply than any sword could’ve ever done.

His brows lifted and his mouth opened with about a thousand questions. However, he didn’t have the chance to get any out before Marnie caught his forearm and marched him out the door. Tugging his attention away from Nim.

Bernus was on their heels. Curious how this would go.

And like dutiful seconds, Almora and Lon followed until all had gone.

It was easy to forget the lone presence lurking so darkly.

That was his nature, to go unnoted.

To be forgotten.

“Why have you pushed him away so long, Mother?” Styx’s voice made her head snap to him and reminded her of his presence.

She gasped at the surprising question and her lack of answer. “I’ve done many things I regret, My Son, and that is certainly among them.”

“Have you redeemed yourself for your crimes?”

“That is not my decision to make.” Strain ap