"But for the threat of what Ariadne can do to anyone who causes me hassle this inn would've closed a LONG time ago," Merrick said. "So as far as I'm concerned her and anyone she calls friend has earnt the right to not have to pay me for their stay." He reached into one of the cupboards, producing a loaf and pulling a knife from a nearby drawer. "And I wouldn't worry about Alex, that tyke will be down to the baker's shop as soon as he thinks we're not paying attention. You can say many things about him, hungry is definitely not one of them."