The Isle of Sin and Shadows

by Keri Lake

“I like formalities. They eliminate the need to--” “Add a sense of feeling? Humanity?” “Exactly.” “You’re right. Human emotion is so messy. I mean, why pet a kitten when you can snap its neck, you know what I mean?”

“So, then, why are you hanging onto me like an ugly purse that doesn’t match your outfit?” “I’m curious to know their interest in you.” “Well, when you figure that out, perhaps you’ll clue me in, too.” “Perhaps.”