Shadewood Even though we know it, everyone remains in play.

Guilt washed over Riley once he saw the way Masque’s expression soured. He winced as she set to work, a deep sigh expanding his rib cage. I know, I’m sorry.

He’d gotten carried away in the heat of the moment. She was right, as she always was — this injury put both their lives in jeopardy.

Riley never once regretted their decision to leave the rise, but today he worried for their future. And the future of their children.

He brought his head to hers to butt her gently with his forehead. We will be alright. They will be alright. When she was done cleaning Riley stood up with a shake, noticing Masque could not bring herself to eat the porkling. Riley would deposit it in their cache, a new worry for Masque settling malignantly in his stomach.