Ronan immediately put Irene's coat back on so that the bloodstains that had spread across the girl's skirt could be covered. The three of them returned to where they kept the horses and carriage and soon returned to Lazarus' residence at the naval base.
They had to walk up the stairs. Irene's stomach hurt even more. She couldn't take it anymore. Just a few steps on the stairs to climb the hill, Irene crouched down.
"I'm sorry, I… can't," Irene said weakly.
Ronan also crouched down and asked Irene to climb onto his back quickly.
"Get on me. That way, we can get home faster and you can rest right away," said Ronan.
Irene had no other choice. She did what her brother ordered. With such ease, Ronan was back on his feet. Irene's breath felt rougher and heavier. The lower part of her body ached every time she breathed in, so it was quite suffocating for her. Ronan walked with fast and wide steps. He climbed the stairs two at a time.
