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Jolie is my purpose.

“I’m not a member of the Order, Leopold.”

“Well, you passed your final challenge with flying colors, Fabien. You’ve proven yourself over and over again. We need men like you. Come join us where you rightfully belong.”

This moment is something I’ve always dreamed about... the Supreme Elder of the Castaways practically begging me to join.

I’ve worked so hard to get here.

But Jolie wants nothing to do with the Castaways. The Order and her father have given her nothing but grief and pain.

And Jolie is the most important thing in my life.

I once dreamed of joining the Castaways, and I know that it’s something that my father would’ve wanted for me.

But not like this.

“I refuse, Leopold.”

There’s pain in my voice; it’s the tension of rejecting something that once was my dream. It hurts, but it’s necessary. And that’s what keeps me steady.

There’s a momentary pause on the other end.

“Is this about Cromwell’s daughter?” the new Supreme Elder purrs. “You’re really willing to throw away everything for her?”

“Yes,” I reply.

“You’re making a mistake. You could be a great man if you joined.”

“I’m already a great man,” I say. “I’ve got Jolie. I’ve got everything I need. Goodbye, Leopold. Good luck with your secret society.”

And then I hang up on the Supreme Elder.

* * *

It’s evening now, and I’m leaving my art gallery. I stroll down the steps into the crisp night air when a dark figure approaches. My hands move to the gun I carry, concealed, on my belt. I’ve been armed ever since the Castaways' mansion.

But as he steps into the light, I immediately recognize him.

Silas Anguish.

“I’ve heard of your uncle’s promotion,” I say as he walks toward me. “You must be thrilled.”

It’s no coincidence he’s outside my gallery. He wants to see me. I’m curious as to why.

Silas scoffs at my greeting.

“And I’ve heard you’ve refused his generous offer,” he says.

“I did.”

Silas nods.

Then pauses.

“You’re one in a million, Fabien. A lot of men would kill to join the Castaways, even in its current diminished form.”

“I’ve had enough of killing,” I reply.