Page 90 of Willow

Christian gritted his teeth. As helplessness overtook him, he trembled in frustration.

“What’s our plan?” Willow asked, rising, and staring down at the books.

Christian gazed at her. Her skin was smooth, and her eyes were a deep sapphire in the sun’s rays. His heart softened, and he walked to her side, aching to be near her. She had become a part of him, the most vital part. She was more important to him than anything else, even the Templars. He would do anything to keep her safe.

His stare swept the group. Sage was leaning over the book, looking intently at the maps. Marcus stood behind her, watching like a guard or a snake—Christian couldn’t figure out which. Raven joined the group with Landyn.

“Give Sage time,” Marcus suggested. “She can figure it out.”

“We don’t have time,” Christian said.

A loud thundering rumbled from the road behind the trees, drawing their attention.

At first, Christian thought it was a storm rolling in. But then, dust rose in the air, and he realized it was a large group charging down the street.

“We need to hide,” Landyn announced, his fists tightening in unease.

Silence settled around the group.

De Burgh knew all his safe places. He couldn’t contribute to a place to seek sanctuary.

Marcus licked his lips. “I know somewhere,” Marcus said. “It’s not easy to reach.”

Christian exchanged a glance with Landyn.

But it was Sage who made the decision. She rose, gathering the book. “Let’s go.”

Christian ground his teeth, but he had no other option.