Page 17 of Bound By Honey

"No, why?" Sawyer replied.

"His fingernails," she said, pointing at Prince Finn. "They're discolored. Ginger will help with the inflammation from overuse, and the drasken mushroom helps regenerate the body. It may help counter some of the effects before they fully set in."

Freddy's eyes widened while the others just stared at her.

"How do you know this?" the prince asked.

"My father is an apothecary. I practically grew up in the shop he worked in."

"But you became a librarian?" Asher asked.

She shrugged. "I love books."

Freddy cleared his throat and held the flask out to Sawyer. "You heard her. Add it."

"You're sure?" Sawyer asked.

"Look at him. I can't believe I didn't notice the discoloration myself. It's worth a try."

Sawyer dug into the pouch filled with small envelopes and bottles, looking for the ingredients.

Something itched at the back of Sage's mind as she watched the group. "How do you all know Freddy?"

"We grew up with him," Asher responded. "When we were small, he wasn't stuck in the library as much. He taught us some and was occasionally part of the court before the curse progressed."

"We're lucky to have him," Colby added.

"Will you just hurry up and give me the potion? I want to get out of here," Prince Finn grumped.

Freddy shook the flask one last time and opened it before handing it to the prince. "You know, it sounds like there's a simple solution to all your problems right now. Sage needs somewhere to stay, and you lot need someone who knows at least the basics about medical stuff. I'm awake less and less and won't always be here to help you out."

"They've got me," Sawyer argued.

"They do, but I bet she knows much more than you do."

Suddenly five pairs of eyes were focused on her, making her squirm.

"I think it's a good idea." Asher was the first to speak. "I promise no matter what our reputation may be, we will be nothing but honorable toward you if you live with us. The room and food would be free. You could still work in the library but need to travel with us on some of our jobs."

"That's right. It can be like you're the princess of the group," Freddie finished.

She cringed at the thought. "I don't want to be the princess of anything."

"Then what's the problem?"

She looked at Prince Finn and then back at the rest of the group in front of her.

"I guess there isn't one."

Dinner with the Charming Four

Sagestoodinhernew bedroom. White walls contrasted with the wood ceiling and furniture. Dust danced in the light that shone through a large window and delicately landed on the dresser below it. The view from the second floor was stunning. The manicured garden and stone walls made her feel as if she were no longer inside the city, even though she was in the center of it.

Her meager bag of personal belongings sat on the small bed, and a familiar trunk was positioned at the foot. She opened the lid to find a pile of packages wrapped in brown paper and tied with string, filling it to the brim, with a small note on top.

A little something to get you started. I assume most of your belongings went with your parents, so I gathered a few items to help you with your new home. If they get too rowdy, send them my way.

-Your now ex-roommate, Freddy

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