Page 61 of A Raven Revived

“I’m fine, Ash.” Her voice was still scratchy, and her throat was tender.

He shook his head, a sad smile turning up his lips. “No, you aren't. But you will be.”

She nodded. Hopefully he was right about that. She wasn’t so sure. Physically, she would undoubtedly heal, but what about the fear that lived inside her now? Could she overcome that, as well?

“I’ll make sure she is,” Fitz promised.

“Where would you like to go tonight, Daisy?” Ash asked as they neared Raven Row. “Would you like to stay at Raven House or with Fitz?”

She looked up at Fitz. “I didn’t think the pair of you would give me that option.”

Fitz squeezed her hand. “If it were up to me, you’d never leave my side again. But if you’ll be more comfortable at Raven House, I know you’ll be safe there.”

She shook her head. “I’d rather be with you.” It wasn’t even a difficult choice. She wanted to sleep with Fitz’s arms wrapped around her again.

“But what about Samantha?” she asked Ash.

He raised a brow. “Do you think I would just abandon her?”

“Of course you won’t. I don’t know why I even asked the question. I’m a little surprised that you’re going to allow me to stay with Fitz when we’re not married.”

“You’ll be married soon.”

Fitz pulled her close. “As long as you’ll still have me.”

She scoffed. “I’m the one who’s broken, and with no dowry, and a father who will certainly not give his permission.”

“I’ve already told you, I don’t give a damn about his permission or a dowry.”

“Oh, he’ll give his blessing,” Ash assured them. “Epworth is dealing with that as we speak. Your father cares far too much about his reputation to refuse.”

“Why would Lord Epworth do that for me?”

Ash shrugged. “Like Patrick said, you’re one of ours.”

“Well, I guess I’m lucky to have friends in high places, then.”

Fitz pressed another kiss to the top of her head. “You and me both.”

The carriage came to a stop and Fitz helped her down. They were in Raven Row, but not at the Inn. “What are we doing here? This isn’t Redmoor Inn.”

Fitz smiled proudly. “This is our home.” He shrugged. “If you want it to be, anyway.”

“I don’t understand. You own this townhouse?”

He nodded. “I know you have a lot of questions, but why don’t we go in and get out of the cold before I explain everything?”

Ash stepped down. “I am aware of just how independent you are, Daisy, but please allow Fitz to take care of you for a little while so you can rest and recover.”

“I plan to take full advantage.” She smiled up at him.

He gave her a proper hug, wrapping her in a tight embrace. He’d never done that before and it surprised her. But it was comforting, and it made her feel safe.

“Did you just give me a real hug, Ash?”

“Don’t tell the others,” he whispered conspiratorially.

She laughed softly. It was still painful for her body but felt so good for her soul. “I wouldn’t dream of it.”

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