Chapter 36

I wake up to find myself alone in bed. Anders must have snuck out before the moon rose. I tried to stay awake, but clearly, I failed.

I get up and dressed and go to peek outside. The sky is just beginning to wake, the very edge of the horizon turning a blazing orange. He’ll be back soon.

I grab some logs and prepare the fire, placing the pots in so the water will warm for his bath. A moment later, Anders stumbles inside, naked and dirty, just as last time, but he doesn’t seem to be in as much pain.

“Hi,” I say timidly. “The water will be ready soon.”

He nods and gives me a weak smile as he sits on the bench at the table. When they’re ready, I bring the pots over to the tub and dump them in, sticking my hand inside to make sure it feels ok. It’s perfect. I offer him m……