“My dad taught me to have faith in things I can’t see, that can’t be proved yet. He believed the tarot holds power we don’t understand,” Cain whispers. “And Perilli’s decks are obviously special. You see the influence they hold over people. So, yes, I do believe that card will bring my dad peace. But I also hope it will help bring me some purpose. That’s the hidden potential I hope to find, using the lost Prince.”

I can’t see Amelia’s reaction as Cain finishes, because we round the corner into the front lot. I don’t know if she believes any of this or if this makes her feel differently about the choice I made on her behalf. But I do know Cain believes all of this, to his core. To me, right now, that’s what counts.

We don’t say another word as we cross the parking lot, knowing we’ve entered the most dangerous stretch of our escape. Every step back toward Charvan feels like a mile, like we’re prey crossing the path of a lurking predator. But not only do Amelia and I make it back unseen, we also find Cleo and Logan waiting for us inside.

Once we’ve taken down Cain’s number, it only takes a second for Logan to start the engine and roll Charvan out into the desert night. As we leave, I turn back to take one last look at Cain. I see him standing in the driveway, watching us go with a fiery determination burning in his eyes. In this moment, I really do believe he will repay us someday, however he can.

At least, I really hope that’s true.

Click here

The words leave my mouth, and with them I know so many implications will follow. Ultimately, I don’t believe the missing Prince will help Cain the way he hopes. Besides, it’s now our responsibility to protect the value of these cards, for so many reasons.

Still, I turn to Amelia before delivering on my promise, to give her the chance to disagree. She stares back at me with wide eyes… but she doesn’t say anything.

Which means it’s beyond time to exit this cramped room and sneak back to Charvan. I step toward the door, but the second I do, Cain lunges toward me. He reaches out his hand, aiming to grab the Prince I still hold.

Reacting on instinct, I tighten my grip and try to pull away. Whatever happens next, Cain must drop his lighter, because suddenly the room goes dark. I can feel Cain’s fingers on the Prince, pulling as he struggles against me.

But I do not let go.

In the next second, light pours into the small room. I turn and see Amelia has gotten the exit door open. In that same second, however, I hear a sound that cracks my heart.