We believed those decisions would make us wealthy.”
“And people died.”
“People die in mines.”
Gideon saw my expression.
He reached for the notebook.
Vane suddenly pulled a pistol from his coat.
“Tell your husband to stay still.”
I translated.
Gideon froze.
Vane extended his other hand.
“The ledger.”
I hesitated.
Then I noticed something behind him.
One of the armed men stood beneath the broken doorway.
His left boot had a damaged heel.
A small crescent of leather was missing.
Merrick.
My brother stepped into the lantern light.
I stared at him.
“You followed us?”
He looked miserable.
“Rosie, give him the book.”
My voice shook.
“You told me you didn’t know about the fire.”
“I didn’t.”
“Then what are you doing here?”
His mouth tightened.
“Trying to make sure you live long enough to leave.”
Vane glanced toward him.
“Enough sentiment.”
He moved closer to Gideon.
Then he said something that made my blood run cold.
“Your father was about to ruin everything, Rook.
Chapter 1: The Creature Beneath His Skin 027
