Page 41 of Eternal Craving

“I lied to you,” I said, turning to face him. “That stuff about the inquisition.”

“Why?”

“I needed someone I trusted to watch over Alicia.”

“I didn’t remove her because of Felipe’s abuse. I fell in love with her and wanted her safe.”

I let out an uneasy laugh, but as the idea settled, so did my relief.

“Felipe is a complete bastard,” he muttered.

“Will you ever forgive me? She had to be protected by any means possible.”

“You were very convincing.”

I cringed.

He shook his head and gave me a wry grin.

“I’m forever indebted to you,” I said. “I owe you so much.”

“Just give me your blessing.”

“Are you sure she wants to see me?”

“Absolutely.”

I sighed. “When Felipe finds out?—”

“We’re going to Italy. She wouldn’t leave without seeing you.” Salvador patted my shoulder. “Come on.”

I allowed him to guide me the rest of the way, until we reached Alicia’s bedroom door. Still wary due to our last interaction, I waved to Alicia from the doorway.

She’d lost weight, evidence of her mistreatment. How many shades of evil did Felipe possess?

Alicia let out a sob. “I thought you’d fallen from the ledge.”

“I’m pretty nimble, you know that.” The lump in my throat refused to disappear.

Alicia ran to me, and I hugged her.

“You tried to warn me.” Tears stained her cheeks.

“All that’s forgotten now.” I breathed in her familiar scent, and it reminded me so much of our mother’s.

Salvador was smiling.

Alicia pulled back. “You’ve grown into such a handsome man.”

I smiled down at her. “I’ve missed you.”

“You look well,” she said, her voice soft. “Felipe?—”

“I’m glad you’ve left him.”

She grasped my hands and held them to her face. “How did you escape?”

A flurry of crows and a rocking carriage.