His arms dropped from around me at once. There was no hesitation. He turned and walked toward the door.
Before leaving, he paused and glanced back.
"There is a charity gathering tomorrow night. I will take Marisel. She just returned and doesn’t have a proper gown."
His eyes moved over me, calm and distant.
"The Moonlight dress in your wardrobe. Have the servants send it to her tomorrow. It can be adjusted for her size."
I stared at him, unable to believe what I heard.
That Moonlight gown…
Five winters ago, when we first confirmed our bond, he had invited a top designer from afar to make it just for me. It was crafted to fit me perfectly. Nine hundred and ninety-nine crystals were set by hand along its hem.
I had treasured that dress deeply. I even never even allowed the servants to touch it.
Once, a new maid secretly took it to try on. When I found out, I had her sent away from Ravencrest without hesitation.
Back then, Damon had praised me. He said what belonged to me would always be mine.
No one else had the right to touch it.
Now he had asked me, directly, to give that gown to Marisel.
My fingers curled slowly, nails pressing deep into my palms until they almost broke the skin.
I looked at Damon. His face was calm, as if this meant nothing at all.
I nodded.
"Alright. I will have it sent to her tomorrow."
He held my gaze for a moment, then turned and left the room.
From the hallway, I heard his voice. Low, gentle, full of care as he spoke to Marisel. Then the soft sound of a door closing.
I stood there in silence.
After a moment, I walked to the desk and opened the drawer. Inside was a calendar. I took a red pen and marked today with a heavy line.
Two more days…
In two days, Raylan would come for me.
I removed the stained gown and stepped into the bathroom. Warm water ran over my skin.
I looked at my reflection in the mirror. I looked so pale… and empty.
Damon Redclaw…
Seven winters ago, you pulled me out of that wreck and gave me another life.
For seven winters, I stood by you. I took blades meant for you. I handled the things you could not face. I kept your household in order so you never had to worry.
We stopped owing each other long ago.
***
The next morning.
I followed his words and had a servant take the Moonlight gown to Marisel.
Her door was left wide open on purpose.