Page 173 of The Fae Girl 1

Hal turned to face his father. His face going very serious. He straightened his back as he walked as if he was trying to grow a few more inches.

And then he bowed. “Father.” He murmured.

“Are you hurt?” Uther asked.

“No father.”

Uther grabbed hold of him pulling him in and hugged him tightly. “You should never have been in danger.” He said.

“I wasn’t. Not really.”

Uther looked up at me and I gave him a look that told the truth. He sighed before letting him go. “You’re going to stay here for a bit. Just while we while sort things out.”

“I’m staying?” Hal gasped.

“You’ll continue your studies.” Uther replied. “And you’ll be restricted to the Royal Quarters. We’ll assign you new guards.”

Hal pulled a face.

“Uther…” Cait murmured walking up and putting her hands on Hal’s shoulders. “He’s been through enough for now. How about we let him rest?”

“I’m not tired.” Hal pouted.

“I know.” Cait said. “But I thought we could spend the rest of the day together. Your father and uncle have things they need to be getting on with.”

“I can help.” He looked from me to Uther and then back again.

“I know.” I said. “But you need to wash. You’re covered in dirt from the road.”

“So are you.” Hal snapped.

“Hal.” Uther growled.

Hal hung his head and muttered ‘sorry’ under his breath.

“Go with Cait.” I said gently. “And later I’ll come find you and see how you’re settling in.”

Hal nodded before looking at his father.

“Go Hal. We have things to do.” Uther stated.

I saw his shoulders slump. As if he was giving in. He took Cait’s outstretched arm and she led him from the room. But as they reached the threshold he turned, his eyes fixed on Uther.

“Come.” Cait said quietly and he did without making any fuss.

As the door shut Uther let out a long exhale.

“You need to be careful with him.” I said. “He feels more than he shows.”

“What does that mean?” Uther asked.

“It means he wants to make you proud. He’s so focused on it he’ll do anything, say anything.”

“I am proud of him.” Uther half snapped.

“Have you told him that? Have you ever just spent time with him, not as ruler and heir. But as father and son?”

He scowled. “I don’t have time.”

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