Because somehow, this time, I actually was starting to feel a little trapped.
Scream
Declan
I mademyself wait until the second day of Sadie’s stay at the Mountain Fortress before texting Tadhg.
HK: Checking in. How’s our HMSQ? Did she have a good time with her Shadow King?
It took him several hours to respond.
MK: She’s fine.
Two words. I waited another thirty minutes for more before trying again.
HK: Did she like the room you kitted out for her? I know you were nervous about it.
MK: She’s fine. We’re fine. I’ll have her delivered back to you by her birthday. I know you’re feeling impatient.
I frowned and typed,
HK: It’s not about that.
Though Iwasimpatient—and had half-hoped he might invite me to spend a night or two with them at the fortress—I added,
HK: I just wanted to check on my people.
No response.
So I texted my brother.
HK: You’ve seen Tadhg and Sadie about the fortress?
HP: Was just about to text you. Brigid’s in labor! Taking her into town now.
Well, hell...The first royal birth since my ascension to the throne took precedence for a while. I was on my way to visit my brother and my new nephews the next day when I received an alarming message on my kludged phone.
SK: Forwarding this message from our source.
SK:
Attachment:
Dear Mr. Mahoney:
I’m writing this from an internet café in Glasgow, where I’m pretending to visit some old friends. A lot has happened since I helped you get those brides, including some things with my partner that might blow back on me. While I appreciate the money you transferred for my services, I’m afraid I’m going to need more so that I can hand in my resignation and move permanently from Faoiltiarn. Please advise.
SK: “Please advise” subtext analysis: Blackmail-adjacent bid for substantially more money.
MK: Well, shite.
I guess this proved it. I truly was committed to spending the rest of our lives with Sadie. I put my CEO hat back on and texted:
HK: Send me her information. I’ll negotiate a new deal.
SK: Pronouns she/her. Info pack on way.
HK: On it.
