Blood and Silver Lies

ZOE

Two days pass in a blur of recovery and careful attention from Cyrus. He brings me meals, checks my bandages, and sits by my bed reading reports while I rest. It’s domestic and peaceful in a way that makes my chest ache with longing.

I’m reviewing discharge papers when Cyrus’s phone rings. His expression grows increasingly tense as he listens to whoever’s on the other end.

“I’ll be there within the hour,” he says finally, ending the call.

“What’s wrong?” I ask, though something in his face already tells me it’s serious.

“Family emergency at the estate.” He’s already reaching for his jacket, then turns to Hugo. “Escort Zoe home once she’s discharged. Make sure she’s safe.”

“Yes, Your Majesty,” Hugo responds with a bow.

But my instincts are screaming that whatever’s happening is more dangerous than he’s letting on. An outbreak of some kind, maybe. Or an attack on his family.

After Cyrus leaves, Hugo approaches my bedside. “Miss Silverwood, I’ll wait outside while you complete your discharge paperwork.”

“That won’t be necessary,” I say firmly. “I appreciate the Alpha King’s concern, but I can get home safely on my own.”

Hugo frowns. “His Majesty specifically ordered me to escort you—”

“And I’m specifically declining your escort,” I interrupt. “You’re needed elsewhere, and I’m perfectly capable of getting home safely. Please tell Cyrus I’m grateful for his consideration.”

After a moment’s hesitation, Hugo nods reluctantly. “Very well. But if anything happens—”

“Nothing will happen,” I assure him.

The moment he’s gone, I grab my things and head for the discharge desk. But I’m not going home, I’m going straight to my mentor’s residence.

* * *

An hour later, I’m standing in the familiar stone cottage that was once my master’s home. Kelly greets me at the door, concern etched across her face.

“Little Mistress? I thought you were still in the hospital.”

“I was discharged early,” I say, heading straight for the hidden compartment where I keep my disguise supplies. “I need to become Alba, and I’ll need Lux to accompany me. Something’s happening at Cyrus’s estate - people might need medical attention.”

I spread my disguise kit across the wooden table, my hands working quickly to apply the facial prosthetics that transform me into the mysterious healer.

“I’ll get the car ready,” Kelly says, but then her voice turns hesitant. “But Zoe... there’s something you should know about Lux.”

My hands freeze on the makeup compact. “What about him?”

“He’s been coming home late the past two nights. Covered in injuries, exhausted.”