Page 41 of Forsaken Secrets

17

Kaiya

Pulling my cloak tighter around my body, I slipped out the kitchen door. Wind whipped my skirt, and I lifted my face to meet the bright sunshine, hoping it would calm my aching heart.

Why were the worst days always so beautiful?

I needed to get some space to think — maybe head to the ruins to see if Lynk was around? I still had his rope. Perhaps I should try stopping by the General Store again?

No. I was in no mood to talk to the Harlsteds or run into Eli.

The ruins it was then.

"Well, are you willing to work with me yet?"

The voice made me jump, and I spun around to see Eli leaning against a tree, wide grin pasted on his face. His green eyes dropped to my dress, and my cheeks heated at the interest in them.

What in the seven hells was he doing here?

"Gods damn it, Eli. Why are you lurking around my house? This is NOT the time." I glared at him and marched down the drive. I really didn't want any company.

He jumped to catch up, laughing softly. "What can I say? You're just too fun to scare."

I scoffed inside, but pretended not to hear him, hoping he'd take the hint. I was far too raw today …

A hand pressed into my elbow sending tingles up my arm, and I turned to face him, ready to let loose all the anger that had been building up during the Ellingsworth's visit.

"I'm sorry, Kaiya." His voice was solemn and his face serious. His wide cheekbones stood out as he tilted his head to the side and smiled winningly, that dimple peeking out from his left cheek. "My timing is terrible."

I nodded, feeling my anger thaw. Just a bit. "The worst."

"I'm assuming the poor timing has to do with that?" He pointed towards the carriage rattling down the opposite direction of the road.

I bit my cheek and tapped my fingers impatiently against my hip as I watched them disappear, brain still not fully able to grasp just how much trouble we were in. "That would be Lady Ellingsworth."

"And she is … ?"

"Oh, just the person who holds our future in her very slimy hands." The words came out without thinking. I covered my mouth and met his laughing eyes. Shit. I really shouldn't have said that! "I mean — she's the Magistrate's wife, and they're a very … influential couple."

Gods. That didn't come out much better.

Cheeks hot, I stared at him, waiting for his shock, or even anger.

But, in what I was beginning to realize was typical Eli fashion, he just laughed and patted my shoulder. "Your secret is safe with me." Warmth unfurled in my chest.

I shook it off. I had no time for warmth or friendship.

Besides, he was only here for a few weeks. He'd told me that himself.

I crossed my arms. "You still haven't told me why you're here."

"You should know by now!" He smirked. "I have a life-debt to repay."

That again? Gods. I didn't have time for this.

Sighing, I turned and walked away.

He chased after me. "Seriously. I want to help, Kaiya!"

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