Page 118 of In the Shadows

choose what is best for the group.”

The cutting edge of her smile hinted that she and Alden had a

history longer and more complicated than Arthur could ever

understand. But he didn’t care about her. He didn’t care about any

of them. He wanted Alden.

“Very well.” Alden let out a heavy breath, but did not lower his

gun. “Constance, see to the loading of the cage.” She nodded and

left with a swish of her skirts, followed by the bearded man, who

was still grumbling under his breath.

Alden half-turned to follow them, then paused. “Still, we

ought to give these children something to remember us by.”

Before Arthur could raise his gun, Alden had shoved him out

of the way and grabbed Minnie. He jerked her head back, whisper-

ing in her ear and holding his beetle pendant against her forehead.

Her voice cut off mid-scream as her shoulders slumped and her

gaze turned toward the ground.

“Get away from her!” Arthur roared, his heart in his throat.

Alden held Minnie in front of his body as a shield, the gun

in Arthur’s hand feeling more worthless than ever.

“She’s unharmed,” Alden said, a cruel laugh shaping his words.

“And certainly not dead, so our end of the bargain is upheld.”

Arthur rushed to Minnie as Alden backed out of the cave. He

expected her to fall, but she stood, completely still, where she was.

“Minnie?” he asked, his voice trembling. She didn’t look up.

Taking her chin, he tilted her face toward his own.

Her eyes were blank white orbs, with no soul or fire

behind them.

Minnie was gone.

One Month Ago

twenty-three