Page 47 of Prince of Shadow and Ash

“And has your superhuman strength disappeared recently?”

“No—”

“Are you still healing supernaturally quickly?”

“Drez—”

“Is sorcery still a capital offense? What changed, Regulus? What?” Dresden looked uncharacteristically tired as he drew his hand down his face. “You’re going to get caught.”

Regulus stared at the fire. Every objection Dresden raised and more had already occurred to him. He knew he was being foolish; he just didn’t care. Because for once, something was going right.

“I can be careful. I can hold myself back. I’ve practiced, you’ve seen it.”

“When have you ever cared about tournaments?” Drez walked over to the fireplace. He knelt and scratched Magnus’ head. “You told me you didn’t want to take part in the nobles’ games of vanity and posturing, regardless of the danger of doing so with your... Condition.”

“Things change.”

“What changed?” Dresden leaned against the wood-paneled wall next to the fireplace and crossed his arms. “Based on the checklist I went down, nothing...has...” A stricken expression came over his face. “Don’t say it. Don’t you say it.”

Regulus offered a guilty half smile. “You wanted this.”

“Oh, for the love of...” Drez rubbed his forehead. “Do you even know if she will be there?”

“She asked if I’d be there. I couldn’t tell her no.”The yes was out of my mouth before I could stop myself.He couldn’t disappoint Adelaide now. And even though it was dangerous—for himself and Adelaide—he wanted to go. After she pulled a dagger on Carrick, Regulus knew he was a lost cause. He would do anything she asked. The way her eyes lit up when he said he’d be there...She’s making me reckless.

“You’re an idiot.”

Yes, probably.“I’ll be careful. I won’t be found out.” He looked down at his hands. “But if something goes wrong...well, same plan. None of you knew anything.”

“I’m not abandoning you, Reg.” Dresden’s voice was tight with anger. “The others won’t, either. Don’t you get that yet?”

It’s the only reason I keep coming back.“I’m not letting any of you die because of me.”

“You’re only in this mess because of me and the others,” Dresden said quietly.

He took his feet off the stool and sat forward in his chair. “No. This was my choice. Something goes wrong; you swear on everything you can think of you didn’t know. Or what is the point of what I’ve done?”

Dresden glowered at the floor in silence. “Well...don’t get caught and it won’t be an issue.” He straightened. “So, you really like her?”

No. I think I might love her.“I know I shouldn’t—”

Drez cursed. “Stop. You don’t have to be afraid of being happy.”

“I’m not afraid of being happy. I’m afraid of hurting her.” Regulus rubbed the tension building in his shoulder. “When I’m here, it’s easier to tell myself it’s dangerous. But when I’m around her...” He shrugged, his face heating.I believe in a better life.

“You’re more yourself.” The corner of Drez’s mouth pulled up in a bittersweet smile. “You better win. Make this ridiculous risk worth it.”

Regulus smiled wryly. “Obviously.”

---