Alfred the bloodhound snuffled as though to agree.
“You showed me the door, if I remember rightly.”
His lashes flickered. “Most who come here never leave this place, hiding as they are. Some from cruelty like Hannah, or unbearable grief like Kian. But you, you were young and had your whole life in front of you. For you, Amelia, it was time to cease hiding.”
She sought his pitch eyes. “And for yourself, Prince? When will you cease hiding?”
Amelia was more than aware he would not answer so raised up on tiptoes to smooth the black feather at his lapel.
The Prince caught her wrist. “I do not hide.” His eyes held hers, unfathomable, until abruptly he released her and swivelled to stare into the night.
But after some moments, he glanced over one shoulder, that scarred cheek glistening in the candlelight. “Because no one can hide from themselves. You know that.” Breath left him. “Farewell, Amelia. Take care of yourself.”
“And you, Prince,” she murmured. “Farewell.”
