Ruinous Love Trilogy, #3
Scythe & Sparrow
by Brynne Weaver
Contents
Stroke of Luck
Overview
Outside the orthopedic clinic, Rose’s anxiety about her future and growing feelings for Fionn spikes when Matt Cranwell confronts her with news that Eric Donovan’s truck was pulled from the river and his wife is hospitalized. Naomi, now confident, quietly supports Rose. During Rose’s cast removal, she decides to leave soon to draw danger away from Fionn, but they agree to keep contact for her recovery.
Summary
Waiting outside the orthopedic clinic, Rose reflects on how she and Fionn have avoided discussing her departure despite their bond deepening into something that feels like love. Her tarot spreads echo uncertainty and looming decisions, intensifying her anxiety.
Matt Cranwell appears with flowers, taunting Rose that Eric Donovan’s truck was pulled from the Platte River and implying knowledge of Rose’s role in recent violence. He claims his hospitalized wife, Lucy, simply “tripped,” echoing his threats. Rose parries his insinuations until Nurse Naomi calls her in.
Inside, Naomi—noticeably healthier and more confident—thanks Rose for changing her life and promises to look in on Lucy Cranwell. After Naomi leaves, Rose steadies herself, shaken by Matt’s veiled warning and what it could mean for Fionn.
Fionn arrives and begins removing Rose’s cast. Distracted and fearful Matt may target Fionn, Rose concludes she must leave soon to lead danger away. With nurses nearby, she speaks in code; Fionn initially accepts the original terms, but Rose clarifies she’s leaving to avoid causing him trouble.
Fionn understands and offers physical therapy contacts. Rose asks him to check in on her exercises while she’s on the road, and they agree to stay in touch, underscoring their deepening connection even as she prepares to go.
Who Appears
- Rose EvansProtagonist; confronted by Matt, decides to leave soon to protect Fionn; gets her cast removed.
- Fionn KaneDoctor and lover; removes Rose’s cast, offers physio help, agrees to keep in touch.
- Matt CranwellThreatening antagonist; reveals Eric Donovan’s truck was found, implies knowledge, mentions his hospitalized wife.
- Nurse NaomiNow confident and grateful; thanks Rose and vows to check on Lucy Cranwell.
- Lucy CranwellMatt’s wife; hospitalized after an alleged fall, potential abuse victim Naomi will check on.
- Eric DonovanOff-page figure; his truck was pulled from the river, body not yet found.