Chapter 18 · And you dragged me into this because you wanted to confirm it

"And you dragged me into this because you wanted to confirm it."

"I dragged you out because Vale's men were going to execute you."

"You could have told me!"

"Would you have come willingly?"

"No!"

"Then you have your answer."

The voice below grew closer. A pale hand appeared around the edge of the shaft.

"You should hurry," Tessa called. "The ash-walkers are coming up behind me, and they are not as patient as I am."

Riven pushed Mara toward the ladder.

"Climb."

She did not move.

"You want me to trust you after that?"

"No. I want you alive. Trust can wait."

"You keep saying that like it is noble."

"It is practical."

"You do not get to decide what happens to me."

"I do while we are chained together."

He caught her by the waist and lifted her onto the first rung.

Mara slapped his hand away.

"Touch me again and I will make you regret having hands."

"Climb, and I will consider the threat."

She climbed.

The ladder shook beneath her boots.