Page 32 of Prince of the Northwest Forest
We stand looking at each other awkwardly, until I say, “Thanks anyway.”
He puts his hand on my bicep. “If I do see him, how would I get in touch with you?”
I hold out my hand to shake his, and he grips it firmly. “I’m Kalle, and I’ve been working for Layla as a groundskeeper.” I see that he recognizes Layla’s name. “If you find Mats, please tell her. I’m sure she can find me.”
“Will do. I’m Ranbir of the Naga. Good luck finding your brother.”
“Thanks.”
He leaves, and I sigh.
This quest is not going well at all. Will I ever find Mats?
Might as well go sit so I can see the plaza. And, coincidentally, visit Justice.
Justice is behind the counter of Café Magnifique helping a customer. My throat feels thick, and my heart starts beating faster.
He sees me when I walk in and gives me his huge grin—one that I never see him direct at anyone else. My heartbeat ratchets up even more. I step forward in line.
I still want to get to know him better. Even if it’s just friendship. Even if it will mean nothing in the end.
“Kalle,” he says, his voice welcoming, with an edge of seduction. “The usual?”
“Yes. Please.” My voice sounds scratchy. I tug my hood back, letting him see my face.
“Coming up.” He quickly gets my muffin for me. Like they have every day, our fingers brush as he hands me the plate, and I don’t imagine the electricity passing between us.
Get a grip, Kalle.
He’s not someone you can be interested in.
Unless …
Maybe there is a chance.
Maybe, like my sexuality, being with a commoner is something that’s a block in my own mind—but not an actual block. I’ve certainly seen some examples of royalty and commoners being together at this very hotel.
Blinking, I become aware of the people waiting behind me while I linger, staring at Justice, so I take my muffin and sit down at my usual table by the front window. My sword stays strapped to my hip. I suppose in this realm I don’t need to have it with me at all times, but I’m not comfortable leaving it behind.
I’d be willing to stand here in my underwear if it meant that I’d get to spend time just watching Justice. He’s filling orders, making coffee with the machine he calls Gandalf—or the two other coffee machines—working the cash register, chatting, multitasking, all with a friendly smile and some jokes. He’s so good at everything he does.
When Justice gets a break, he comes over to my table and takes the seat across from me. I know he gets up early, but he’s cheerful, not tired.
“Planning on hiking today?” I ask, not wanting to assume anything.
“Yeah. Wanna meet me?”
“I’d love to.” My nerve endings tingle at the idea of spending more time with him.
After another walk in the woods, where I interview a snake, some human hikers, and a flying squirrel (all to no effect), I say goodbye to Justice and walk back to the hotel. Every time I leave him, it gets harder and harder.
As Marti, Hazel, and I pass some houses, an Anna’s hummingbird zips up to us. “Prince Kalle?” he calls.
Martin stops and tilts his head, while Hazel goes on alert.
“Yes? What is it?” My heart starts racing.
“Queen Beatrice and King Björn asked me to report to you that they are awaiting your arrival at the Renversé Hotel.”
