Page 100 of Forsaken Secrets

"I hope you're both hungry!" Eli said, cheek dimpling.

I grinned and leaned forward to flip open the large basket at the center of the blanket. It was overflowing with goodies that made my stomach growl. "Oh gods. This looks heavenly! Shall we?"

Eli laughed. "Greedy, greedy."

I stuck my tongue out at him and pulled out a little container of what looked to be meat tarts.

"Here, you relax and I'll pass them out." Eli said, pulling it from my hands.

I shrugged and leaned back on my elbows, happy to let him take charge.

Finally, when the little plate he'd grabbed was completely full, he passed it over to me. "Here you go, my lady." His fingers brushed mine and electricity shot up my arm.

Nope. I still wasn't over whatever those feelings were.

I'd need to be careful.

I scooted further back, then looked down at the food on my plate and groaned. There were melons, some of that lemon bread Eli liked to carry around, and even a meat tart — golden crust holding the juicy mixture of meat and vegetables captive, a light white sauce leaking out the corner.

Yes! I'd start with that …

I picked it up and took a big bite, catching a bit of juice that leaked out with my tongue. I moaned at the rich flavors that exploded on my tongue, then went for another bite.

Someone cleared their throat, and I looked up to see Lynk glaring at a blushing Eli.

Smirking, I took that bite and met their eyes as I licked the juice from my lips.

Eli shifted uncomfortably on the blanket, and Lynk’s eyes went dark around the edges.

A heavy heat settled low in my belly as I lifted the tart for another bite.

“Well, then. Er - shall we have a toast?" asked Lynk, breaking the tension. He motioned to the whiskey.

Spell broken, I sat the tart down and tried not to think of my completely improper behavior. Instead, I focused on the silver flask in his hand.

Wrinkling my nose, I glared at it. That stuff tasted awful! It felt warm in my belly now, though …

Perhaps this time wouldn't be so bad?

We all lifted our glasses and words tumbled out of me, "To friends, adventures, and a happily ever after."

They smiled, and for a moment, I felt full and at peace.

Then I remembered Solyn in that cage, the application still sitting atop my desk at home, and Aunt Grace's words from earlier.

This was all temporary, and I dare not forget it.

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