*Rafe*

“Are you ready?” Percival asks.

The man looks ragged. Whatever he does to make sure I don’t keel over is really taking its toll. For that reason alone, I need to make sure Howard sees the light. I’m afraid Percival is going to die instead of me.

“I’m as ready as I’ll ever be,” I admit. I step out of the carriage as it rolls to a stop in front of Howard’s very luxurious looking home.

Karl is there to greet me with a wide smile and a warm arm clasp. “Rafe. You look like shit.”

“Thanks,” I reply with a laugh. “You look great.”

Howard stands off to...