Page 55 of The Scald Crow

Smoke and mirrors.

Shadows and sunshine.

Bees hummed in every bloom—too many bees.

Laughter played through my mind.

His laughter.

Who was he to take such liberties with that woman?

“Ériu? Are you awake?” The door burst open, and Orlaith stuck her head into the adjoining room. “Dear gods, it’s stuffy in here.” She lifted the latch, pushing the sash upward. Lightning bolts cracked the sky.

At the same time, a hooded crow landed on the sill, majestic in its grey-black plumage. A screech, a rasping gurgle, rose in pitch, ending with a snap of its hooked beak. Bold, beady eyes pierced mine.

The lump in my throat turned to stone. Running was never an option. Whatever that was, I was part of it. Forevermore.

“Jesus feckin’ Christ. Go away. Go away.” Orlaith shooed the crow away with the flat of her hand. “What is with these bloody birds? They’re everywhere today. It’s an ill omen, let me tell you. Ériu, luv? It’s time.”

Ériu rested her hands on the lace hem of a black silk nightie, which touched her knees. Her golden hair cascaded over the scooped neckline.

“My sweet, Ériu.” He bent his knee before her, his fur-lined cloak pooling on the cold floor. A diadem of gold sat atop his regal head, taming a black mane.

Orlaith seemed oblivious to his presence. They appeared unaware of hers.

“Release me from my vow.” Ériu’s eyes blazed, and her words were laced with fury. She stood before him, the lacy hem swishing against her slender thighs.

“How do you ask that of me? Dear Ériu. You are mine, and I am yours. I love you, and you love me.” He lifted her fingertips, resting his lips on her knuckles. His silver eyes shone.

“My heart bleeds—for him. He needs me. You, Finvarra, do not. Release me from our bond and let me go.” She extended her arm, touching the gilded broach pinned to his shoulder—tears welling in her blue eyes.

“A vow cannot be broken, my sweet Ériu. Come. Let me take you home.” He cupped her heart-shaped face in his hands, wiping her tears with the pads of his thumbs.

“Any woman would be proud to walk beside you. Choose another.” She planted her palms on his gold-threaded tunic, holding him at arm’s length.

“Another? There could never be another like you.” He clasped her hands within his, his full lips lifting into a smile.

“I do not want this.” She enunciated each word, her nipples peaking against the delicate silk.

“You would deny your rightful place among our people? You would deny your king?” He released her and paced back and forth, his deer-skin riding boots silent on the stone floor—regal in every way.

“They are not my people. And you are not my king. You are Tuatha Dé, banished beneath the mounds by my people. My people. Remember who I am. I am Ériu, Princess of the Dead.”

“You are a rare joy, my sweet—a refreshing pleasure—but this folly has continued too long.” He wagged his ringed finger toward her. “I offered you everlasting life, and you accepted. You came willingly, and you were never forced. How soon you forget, dear Ériu.” He closed the distance between them and wrapped one arm around her narrow waist, pressing her against his noble frame.

“I loved you then.” She whispered soft, honeyed words.

“You love me now.” He lifted her hands, twirling her around the little room. “You are my consort. You are my love. Come. Let us dance. Let us make love.” He sighed a sonorous breath, swinging her backward and into his chest. He explored freely, smoothing his palm over her flat belly and heavy swells.

“No longer.” A sigh left her lips, and she moaned, bowing into his touch. Taking ownership of his hand, she guided his fingers lower.

“You are mine, Ériu. It is as it should be.” He dragged his other hand through her hair, turning her face toward him.

”You are Tuatha. One day, death will find you. Perhaps your soul will live within the House of Donn. Or not. You may pass through the gates of hell as others have. Some willingly. Some not.” She hissed a ragged breath.

“But that is not today, my sweet.” He dropped a kiss on the corner of her lips. “Look at me, Ériu. Only I can give you what you seek.” He dragged his lips across her tear-soaked face. “Children. Yours and mine. Our line will be strengthened––our immortality ensured.”

“I am promised to another.” Her voice sounded hollow.

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