It’s impossible not to laugh, and it feels good to see Elena smiling back at me, thinking I’m more than just a burden.
“What exactly are you asking of me?”
“Take your weaves, go back to Ramsey’s hut, and stand your ground?—”
“But—”
“It’s an order, and no, I can’t help you, and neither can Meg nor any of the others. You have to do this, and others need to see it.”
I nod, knowing that she’s right.
I can’t be the mouse I once was. Not here. Not when so much is at stake.
“Fine, but if this goes sideways, I’ll no longer be offering to clean the privy.”
13
RAMSEY
Hauling two endergulfs back to the village by myself is no easy feat, but I work slowly, charging forward as my mind mulls over all that has transpired as of late.
I still do not know what came over me in the cave, when I was alone with weak Asha. Seeing her without her shift had my mind twisted, and I could not help myself.
If I were alone with her again, my restraint would snap in an instant. Which is why I left at first light, before she roused from her slumber.
“Was there a hunting party I did not know about?” comes Dogan’s voice.
“No.”
“Were you attacked near the village, because if you were?—”
“I was not.”
“Then why?—”
“It does not matter,” I growl.
“At least let me help.”
I do not argue when he takes a rope to help haul the beasts back to the village. Nori treks off to the side, quiet as can be, keeping out of our way.
“Good luck to you with loud Amber. You are both ornery, so it is a good match.”
I pause, halting the makeshift sleigh, looking from Dogan to Nori.
Dogan smiles gleefully, but Nori is frowning and refuses to look at me.
“What do you mean by good luck with Amber?”
“Just that I hope it goes well. Nori is glad to rid the longhouse of her, as are others.”
“Why would the longhouse be rid of her?”
“Because she is now staying with you.”
“No, she is not…” Suddenly, I remember my evening conversation with her.
“She was making a fuss after morning meal, and?—”
