#Chapter 42- Hybrid History & Other

Ruby

When I return to the castle, I lift the daze from the guard, who instantly falls asleep at his post by the back door; when he wakes, if he even remembers anything, he’ll just think that he had a vivid dream. It seems as though no one noticed my absence, so I’m able to quietly sneak back to my room and stash the protection charm and my money where I know Alice won’t find it.

The next couple of days are solemn and quiet. I don’t see Atwood at all, and I don’t see Edith and the Queen for more than a few moments in passing. They seem too preoccupied to bother me, as though they’re planning something.

Whatever they have planned, however, is none of my concern. I’ll be gone soon, leaving them to do as they please. If Edith wants Atwood so badly, she’s more than welcome to have him. I refuse to mate with Atwood if it’s only going to result in my death. I can’t leave Tamara alone like that.

Maybe Atwood will listen to Edith, too. Maybe he won’t always assume that she’s up to no good, and