One Dark Window (The Shepherd King, #1)

by Rachel Gillig

The infection comes as a fever in the night. If you take ill, watch the veins—the tributary of blood traveling down the arms. If they remain as they ever did, you have nothing to fear. If the blood darkens to an inky black, the infection has taken hold. The infection comes as a fever in the night.

“But everything has a price.

The highwayman meets the hangman.

Command what you can, Death waits for no man.

But if you won’t let me out… you must let him in.

“And if it takes a cold heart to be fearless, then so be it.”

“Are you still pretending?” I said, reveling in his gaze. Ravyn gave a surprised laugh and, in front of everyone, leaned in and kissed me. “I never was,” he whispered into my lips.

Does it matter? Of course it matters. He matters. So don’t lie to him.

“Be safe,” I whispered to the wind as Ravyn Yew disappeared beyond the gate. Had I known they’d be the last words I’d say to him aloud, I might have chosen them differently.

I’m asking for your help, I said, my voice clear. I understand the price.

The girl, the King… and the monster they became.