Page 53 of The Darkness Within Us

“No.” A pause. “Forgive me, Your Grace, that was a lie. Yes, it is silver.”

“The duke gave it to you?” It’s more an accusation than it is a question.

He nods. Slowly.

“That’s it,” I mutter.

Then I go find Eryx.

It takes the better part of fifteen minutes, but I finally spot him in the library, clearly looking for his next read.

“You’re giving the staff gifts?”

He spins around, his hand going for his revolver, but he thankfully does not draw it. He puts his back to me once more.

“Is that a problem?”

“It will be when they leave their employment because your gifts are worth more than their annual salaries.”

“They won’t leave. They all like you too much.”

“Yes, and that camaraderie was earned. You’re trying to bribe people into liking you.”

He turns to face me and crosses his arms, leaning against the stack of books behind him. “First you’re mad that I let so many of the staff go. Now that I’m showing them how much I appreciate their efforts, you’re also incensed? Do you worry that I will turn them against you?”

“No.”

“Then why are you upset?” His expression turns haughty. “Is it because I did not get you a gift?”

I grit my teeth. “Certainly not.”

His eyes flash amber, and he turns himself back around. “Then what is wrong, Duchess?”

“You. It’s always you that is wrong.”

And because I will not be outdone by him, I send Kyros into town with specific instructions on what gifts I wish to purchase for every member of my staff. I don’t care if it costs my entire monthly stipend. Eryx doesn’t get to win.

THAT NIGHT,WHENIapproach my rooms for the evening, I find a small box on the floor beside the door. For some reason, my heart picks up its rhythm and my skin heats.

I survey my surroundings, confirming there are no witnesses, then bend down to retrieve it. I shut myself within my room and stare at the present.

What did he get me? Earrings? A necklace?

I told him I didn’t want a present from him. I was very clear on the topic.

But it wouldn’t hurt to just open the box. To see what it is. Has he paid attention to my jewelry preferences? Is the gift thoughtful, or was it something random he saw in town?

The hinge swings upward at the slightest touch. After unfolding the tissue paper, I find only a short note nestled against the velvet.

So you did want a gift from me.

I hurl the box across the room.

“No,” I say aloud, as though he’s here to argue with. I didn’t.I don’t.I was justlooking.

When I’ve composed myself, I put the note back inside and place the box exactly where I found it. As though I’d never opened it.

By morning, it’s gone.

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