I thought the weight of hundreds of dead villagers on his conscience would be enough to buy one life. I still underestimated how shameless he was.
"Penny, stop. I can't help you this time."
"Chloe's been through a trauma. She's always been sensitive and stubborn. If Ruby doesn't die, Chloe won't be able to sleep."
And then I finally understood. In Homer's heart, the lives of ordinary people weren't worth as much as one good night's rest for Chloe Fox.
I shoved him away and dragged my broken body across the floor toward the courtyard. I collapsed at Chloe's feet, clutching the hem of her skirt. "Your Highness, please spare Ruby. It was all my fault."
Chloe looked down at me with a satisfied smirk. "Your fault how?"
"I'm lowborn. I should never have troubled the royal physician."
"I should never have displeased Your Highness."
"Enough. The sight of you covered in blood is revolting."
Chloe kicked me away in disgust and turned to Homer. "Homer, I'm tired. Walk me back?"
Homer looked at me sprawled on the ground. He hesitated for a moment. But in the end, he chose Chloe.