“For people like you, the old men, age doesn’t matter. For people like me, the teenage girls, it suddenly becomes very icky.”

“I’m trying to make you understand, Valkyrie, that love transcends the meaningless. If I love you, I won’t let anything stand in my way. If you love me—”

“Which I don’t.”

“—then you won’t let anything stand in your way. Marry me, and we’ll be together for ever.”

“No.”

“You can only hide from your feelings for so long.”

“And you can only hide from reality for so long. I’m not going to marry you, Caelan. Right now, I’m going home.”

“I will accompany you.”

“No, you will not.”

“The Death Bringer might return.”

“You really need to relax. I’ve got my phone worked out so that all I have to do is tap a little button and Fletcher and Skulduggery come teleporting in. She won’t be back, though. She’s had her fun.”

“You don’t need them. I am the only one you need. I am your guardian angel.”

“I’m giving you the night off, OK? Go out. Have fun. Meet a girl. Don’t obsess over her too much. I promise you, you’ll be much more cheerful in the morning.”

“You are the only one for me.”

“I’m walking away now.”

“Say you love me!” he called after her, and she rolled her eyes.

Chapter 22 - The Church of the Faceless

Chapter 22
The Church of the Faceless

corn kept her waiting, but it was a beautiful morning outside so China didn’t mind. It was an obvious little game, designed to teach her who was in charge. A little clumsy, and somewhat disappointing to see that dear old Eliza would resort to it, but it was an inoffensive tactic. According to Gallow, today was the day that he would be revealed to China. She wasn’t sure yet if she believed him, but she definitely didn’t trust him. He had told her to act suitably surprised when he appeared. China hadn’t made any promises.

She became aware of Prave glaring at her from across the church, and arched an eyebrow. “Can I help you?”

“I’m not in love with you,” he snarled.

“How dreadful for me.”

He gripped the sweeping brush like he was strangling it. “You think everyone falls in love with you. Well, you’re wrong. They are weak-minded fools. That’s not me.”

“Obviously.”

“The only love in my heart is for the Faceless Ones, and you will not take that from me.”

“Perish the very thought, Mr…” She paused. “Whatever your name is.”

“Prave,” he blurted.

“Mr Prave, excellent.”

“I have worshipped the Dark Gods since I was a boy. My parents were loyal to them. My father fought alongside Mevolent himself.”

“That’s nice.”

“He wasn’t a traitor. Not like you!”

“And what was your father’s name?”