Page 59 of A Winter Redemption
“Fuck off, Sasha!” Jarne yelled.
Sasha’s eyes widened before he flew out the door after Jarne’s mother.
Silence followed.
“Harpy’s tits! Is she always like that?” Sero asked.
Aryn nodded.
“Yes,” Jarne said. “Yes, she is.”
Jarne turned to Aryn. “I am sorry. I’m sorry for how they treat you, and I’m sorry because I know I treated you the exact same. And I didn’t know you and Sasha were still together when he and I began, but if I’d been a better brother, I would have known.” He reached out and touched Aryn’s arm. “I’m sorry I didn’t show even a smidgen of interest in your life. I’m sorry I wasn’t the brother you needed.”
Tears glistened in his brother’s eyes. “Thank you.” Aryn hugged him.
“You inspire me,” Jarne said.
“Me? I inspire you?”
“Your words. What you said to Mother. It made me realise I want to be valued too. Not just for the perfumes I create. Not just for what I can do for the family.” He shook his head. “I hadn’t planned to stay here in Ores. But I guess I am now.”
“But what about being a perfume alchemist? You love it!” Aryn said.
Jarne smirked. “Mother acts like Greweth Perfumeries is the only perfumery in Bordertown. I’ve had competitors trying to poach me for years. I guess I better consider who I want to work with.”
Aryn laughed.
Jarne smiled sadly. “If only Ketho wanted me, then everything would be perfect.”
At this, Sero spoke, “I’m not sure he doesn’t.”
“What do you mean?” Jarne asked.
“He’s in the valley, and he looks heartbroken. I saw him yesterday,” Sero said. “I don’t think he’d have remained so close if he was ready to move on.”
“But he said…” Jarne trailed off.
“He’s hurting, and he’s scared,” Sero said. “And I think his past has a hold on him. I honestly don’t know if you can change his mind, but if he wanted to end things cleanly, he would have just left. Which is what he did after me. I’ve seen you two together. You make him happy.” Sero sighed. “I’m not sure what you can do, but maybe don’t give up on him yet. Especially if you’ve decided to stay.”
Jarne stared out the window.
He couldn’t let Ketho go. Not without trying one more time. “Can you ask him to come to Ores tomorrow?”
ChapterThirty-Five
Why am I doing this? It’s only going to drag out Jarne’s heartbreak. I should have told Sero no. Told him to tell Jarne that it wasn’t a good idea. Then I should have left the valley.
But Ketho had been unable to say no to Jarne’s simple request. After all, it might be the last time he saw the man.
On Solstice Eve, Ores seemed a flurry of activity, the huts close to completion, villagers carrying trays and crates back and forth. Ketho wouldn’t be here for the festivities though. He’d be gone by tonight.
He dragged his feet along the slushy path to Mila and Rhorton’s door. He took a steadying breath. He lifted his hand, but before he had a chance to knock, the door yanked open.
“Ketho!” Mila said. “You’re here!”
“Ummm. Yes,” Ketho said. “Jarne asked me to come.”
“Of course.” Mila smiled. “He’s round the back.”
