Yep. Definitely not looking good.
Because after Riley Hale's best nap in what felt like centuries, he woke up to Kael's version of revenge.
Not the fire-and-brimstone kind. No, nothing that dramatic. Not anymore.
It was the quiet kind. The kind that arrived with paperwork and unspoken threats.
After all, with someone who has knocked on death's door like an insufferable salesman, there are only a few things that actually scare him.
The cancellation of a day off. And a pay cut.
Although, caring about a pay cut was a new fear. One that developed after realizing he might actually have a future to save for. That is, if he ever managed to escape employment with a certain golden dragon.
So when Kael asked him to look after Orien Vathros, Riley was ready to decline.
But then came the lovely part.
Say no, and he would get sanctioned. Say yes, and he would get a bonus.
