Installment 53

I didn't sleep that night. I kept trying, but each time I glanced at the clock, no more than an hour had passed. Janet barely stirred when I got out of bed at 5:30. I dressed quietly and crept out of the room. The click of the door catch made me flinch, but Janet still didn't move.

I treaded lightly through the castle and reached the maze before Brin. I took a large gulp of the fresh, cool, morning air, hoping it would wake me a little. There was a small bench near the entrance to the maze, and I wiped the morning dew off part of it with my sleeve, then sat down, my arms wrapped around my body in an attempt to stay warm.

I didn't notice Brin approach, nor did I notice him arrive and sit down next to me, but there he was, looking much less tired and cold than I was.

“Mornin',” he said.
I started, “Oh god, you scared me. When did you get here?”
“What do you mean?”
“I didn't see you coming.”
He rolled his eyes, jabbing his thumb into his chest, “Faerie, remember?”
“I... I know, but...”
This wasn't exactly how I had anticipated things going, but I was sure I could turn it around.
“So, what's the plan?"
"I need money."
"I gave you money."
"I need more."
He shrugged, put his hand in his pocket and brought out a roll of banknotes. I took them and slowly flicked through, stalling for time while I worked out what to do next. I had been reliant on seeing him coming, preparing myself, convincing him I was upset. Now I had to play a slower game.
I sighed as a got to the last note and nodded, "That should be enough."