Page 72 of Arrows and Gems
“I never said you did.”
His voice was level, his eyes as straightforward as always. But still that gloved hand hung in front of her, waiting.
It would be polite to accept his assistance. There was no deep meaning in giving a lady a hand up.
Even if part of her wished there was.
Relenting, she put her hand in his and let him help her to her feet. His grip was firm but gentle, perfectly proper but like bottled magic. By mutual unspoken consent, he’d stopped helping her mount and dismount after he accidentally caressed her palm two weeks ago. It was for the best, but Helena missed those little moments of being almost held.
“I’ve been walking more,” Helena pointed out, returning her attention to Tucker. Cap’s thumb slid down her fingers as he slowly released her. “And I’ll have to walk from now on – the horses are finding their winter home today.”
“But it could be done with your cane,” Cap quietly pointedout. “Since you are still regaining strength in your ankle.”
“My ankle is fine.” She stared him down. “And since my shoulder is as well, why haven’t we had that friendly archery match yet? We’ve only traveled one day out of three for the last two weeks.”
His mouth twitched. “Soon. I don’t want you to have any excuses when I win.”
“Always so confident.” Shetskedas she scooped up her bags and threw them over her shoulders. “It will be so satisfying to beat you.”
“Only in your dreams, milady.”
As they walked, the back of his hand brushed against hers. One would think a man so averse to physical contact would leave more space between himself and the person walking next to him. Accidental touches were bound to happen at this range.
Not that Helena was complaining.
Telling herself she didn’t feel the heat rushing up her arm, she tilted her head toward him. “I would like to come with you. One last ride would be nice before bidding the horses farewell.”
“No.”
“No?” Frowning, she tugged one of the straps into a more comfortable position. “I know we’ll have to walk back, Cap. I’ll be fine.”
“Your ankle is not my only consideration.”
“I don’t need you to protect me.” Her chest began to warm with anger instead of whatever his hands awoke in her. “You know I can shoot, Cap. Why are you babying me?”
Stopping, he turned to face her. “I do not need another archer for this. As your skill level is similar to mine, I would prefer to leave you to look after Tucker and Alanna.”
“Tucker and Alanna?” Helena challenged, ruthlessly shoving aside the smug pleasure from his compliment. “Are you sure you aren’t trying to keep me out of harm’s way?”
Cap met her eyes steadily. “I protect those I care about, Margit. It’s what I do.”
The fight started to leak out of her. Those he…
“And I care about Tucker and Alanna.”
His addition drew her up short, tearing at the old wound. Even if he didn’t feel the same flare of…something…when their hands touched, she’d thought they were becoming friends.
She met his eyes, preparing to fire off an angry reply. But a tiny crinkle at the corners caught her attention.
Smothering a smile, she lifted her chin. “Fine. As I also care about Tucker and Alanna, I will accede to your wishes.” She arched a haughty eyebrow. “But don’t expect me to be happy about it.”
The crinkle became more pronounced as his lips curved up a little. “Thank you. I appreciate your willingness to do as I ask.”
Helena leaned closer. Batting her eyes, she gave him a sweet smile. “Do I claim my own arrows?”
One side of his mouth pulled up farther. “Not this time.” Bringing his hands to his waist, he unbuckled one of his many belts, then pulled a second quiver from under his cloak. “For you, milady.”
She grinned. “Heavens, Cap, you do know the way to a lady’s heart, don’t you?”
