Page 56 of Naga General's Mate

“Just thinking how different everything is now.” Mila took a bite of the tart, closing her eyes as sweetness burst across her tongue. “Just a few weeks ago I was scrubbing Kurg’s floors. Now I’m eating fancy pastries with my mate.”

“Speaking of mates…” Brivul leaned closer, his voice dropping low. “Have I mentioned how beautiful you look in that dress?”

Heat crept up Mila’s cheeks. She dropped her gaze to the half-eaten tart, pushing crumbs around the delicate china plate. “Do you think Talis has already taken the evidence to the council?”

“Eager to change the subject?” A playful smirk tugged at Brivul’s lips.

“I just keep thinking about Kurg getting what he deserves.” The sweet raspberry taste turned bitter in her mouth at the thought of her former master. “After all these years of watching him hurt people.”

“The council moves slowly, but they hate being stolen from more than anything.”

“How long do you think it will take?”

“A few days to verify the evidence. Another week for deliberation.” Brivul’s tail shifted against the cafe’s polished floor. “The council likes their procedures.”

Mila’s fingers twisted in her napkin. A week felt like forever when Priscilla was still trapped in that monster’s clutches. “And you’re sure they’ll arrest him?”

“Embezzlement from the council? They’ll strip him of everything.”

The image of Kurg in chains made her heart soar. Freedom for all his slaves, not just her. Justice at last. She straightened in her chair. “I hope they make it public. I want to see his face when they drag him away.”

“There’s my fierce mate.” Brivul reached across the table and covered her hand with his. His scales were warm against her skin. “Though I’d rather keep you far from him.”

“I’m not afraid anymore.” The words rang true as she spoke them. Somehow this powerful Niri warrior had helped her find her own strength. “I just want it done so we can get Priscilla out.”

“We will. I promise.” The certainty in his violet eyes made her breath catch.

Before long, Mila pushed away the half-eaten tart, her appetite vanishing as thoughts of Priscilla consumed her. Her sister would love these delicate pastries. She’d always had a sweet tooth. The image of Priscilla’s face, drawn and tired from endless work in Kurg’s kitchens, twisted like a knife in her chest.

“You’re thinking about her again.” Brivul’s tail curled around her chair leg.

“I keep seeing her alone in that kitchen.” Mila’s fingers traced the delicate china pattern. “She must think I abandoned her.”

“Or she’s relieved you escaped Kurg’s punishment.”

The memory of Kurg’s fury made her shudder. “What if he takes it out on her?”

“He won’t risk damaging valuable property before his trial.”

“She’s not property.” The words came out sharper than she’d intended.

“You know that’s not what I meant.” Brivul’s eyes softened. “I’m saying she’s safer than you think.”

Mila’s hands clenched in her lap. The silk dress suddenly felt too fine, too indulgent while Priscilla wore rags. “I should be there with her.”

“And what good would that do? You’d both be trapped.”

“At least she wouldn’t be alone.”

“Or we can wait for Talis to bring down Kurg properly. Then all his slaves go free.” His scaled hand covered hers. “Including Priscilla.”

Logic warred with the ache in her heart. “I know you’re right. I just miss her so much.”

“Tell me more about her?”

“She’s quiet, but she notices everything. Always knows exactly what someone needs before they ask.” A fond smile tugged at Mila’s lips. “She used to sneak extra portions to the younger slaves, even when it meant going hungry herself.”

“Sounds a lot like her sister.”

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