Matilda's pov

My flesh ached from the night's chill, and I was bitten by the frost and pine. The dirt path through the woodland was illuminated by the wavering light from my torch. If I had followed the rogues' advice, I shouldn't be here, at least not right now. They had urged me to remain, recover, and take it easy. Go into hiding.

However, I declined.

I couldn't stay in Michael's shadow, huddled up like an egg, if I were to live among them. I had to be in their shoes, bleed when ...