His suggestion was one that I had already thought of, and I would talk to him soon. I just needed to get my wits about me first. The last thing that I wanted to convey to him is that I was heartbroken at his betrayal. And as Sean has pointed out, River had many opportunities to kill off all of us and rob themint.
Perhaps he had not betrayed us afterall.
I thought back to the night I selected him. I knew he was different, but I had not felt that he was dangerous. I remember what he said about himself in the carriage ride on the way back to thecastle.
“I do not know where I was born; I am somewhat of an orphan. I knew of my father, but that he wanted nothing to do with me. I spent a lot of time movingaround.”
I sighed as I recalled the hints. His mark lay scarred on his neck, covered by his hair. He did not boast itproudly.
Perhaps he was embarrassed byit.
Or perhaps he was hiding it so I would not detectit.
“I am going to go talk to River,” Iannounced.
As I stood, my four gentlemenstood.
“We are coming with you,” Liamsaid.
“Let me assure you, I can speak to River on my own. He is locked up behind iron. River poses no threat,” Iinsisted.
“Sir Klyn said for you to keep us close,” Ethan remindedme.
I almost blurted out that Klyn was not here right now to uphold anything. But I knew that would not only crush the young men, but hurt myself to hear such aphrase.
“Very well. You may come along, but you will remain quiet. Otherwise, I take the crop to your asses.” Iwarned.
