Page 45 of Pippa of Lauramore
I lower my eyes. I must not argue with him.
“Archer, is what she says true? You came to protect her?” Father asks.
I hold my breath.
“Yes, Your Majesty,” Archer answers, his eyes on my father. “The princess’s safety was my utmost concern.”
My brothers look on us with suspicion, but Father is temporarily appeased.
Alexander pulls a cloak from his pack and brings it to me. Speaking low, he says, “Why can’t I help but think there is something between you and Archer?”
I look at my brother. I don’t like how sharp his eyes are. “There’s nothing between us. How could there be? He’s an archer. I’m a princess.”
“I only meant you are scheming together.” His copper eyebrows knit as he studies me. He pats my shoulder and gives me a sad smile. “But if it is something else, leave it alone. It will only bring you and him grief.”
Alexander’s wrong. There’s nothing between us, not really.
I glance at Archer. He quirks an eyebrow at me and clicks his horse forward.
Leave it alone.
I stare out the balcony,waiting for Father’s decision. There’s a knock at the door, and Anna enters.
“Where have you been?” I ask, temporarily distracted.
She settles in a chair next to the fire, pats her braid, and then gives me a haughty look. “Yuven has confirmed your story.”
It’s the first night I’ve requested the fire lit in over a month, but despite its warmth, I can’t seem to free myself from the chill.
Anna yawns, covering her mouth with her hand, and then pulls out a swatch of fabric. “With all the extra timeon your hands, I expect you have been working on your embroidery.” I can tell by the tone of her voice she doubts I’ve done any at all.
She’s right. I haven’t touched it.
“You will have adequate time tomorrow.” Her voice is smug.
I set down my tea and stare at her. “Why do you say that?”
“Your father has decided you will spend the day with Leonora and Lady Marigold.”
My throat constricts. “All day?”
“His Majesty believes you need more time with female companions. He thinks, perhaps, you’ve become unruly because you are too often in the company of your brothers and their comrades.”
I stare at her, aghast. I can’t spend all day with Leonora and Lady Marigold. Even if I wanted to—which I don’t—I don’t have time. I must help Galinor find the fifth item.
Unless it’s already too late.
“Anna, has anyone come back with all five items?” I ask, realizing with the excitement of the evening, I forgot to ask.
She threads her needle, ignoring me.
“Anna?”
“Lionel arrived this evening, Pippa.”
I feel as if I’ve been struck in the stomach, and I struggle for air.
She frowns at the look on my face. “Of course, we don’t know if his fifth item is correct.”
