Page 26 of Sea and Sky
Gavin snorted. “What did you do?”
“I may or may not have picked up some spell dust on my last trip to shore. It weakens the wood of the ship. And I also thinned boards down in the hold. The repair canvas is riddled with holes. I compromised the tar. But it’s the boards pocked with holes that’ll be the biggest problem, I think. Vex doesn’t keep an eye on me at all times. Probably should.
“Once we pulled the ship from the water for careening, Vex realized there was extensive damage everywhere. We’re grounded for a while. There might be a complete rebuild unless Vex decides to steal another ship. Knowing him, that’s what he’ll do.”
“Sounds very piratey.”
“It is, and very common to just steal another ship, then modify it. But Vexhateschange like that. He’d rather invest in the repairs. The Golden Drake is the second ship of his I’ve been on. You should have seen how he reacted when we had to switch over.”
Skies, Kyler’s smile was life itself.
Gavin wanted to see him smile every day. “The ship leaves tonight to get a head start. You, Damon, and I will leave to catch up after breakfast tomorrow. Will you be ready?”
“So soon?” Kyler shoveled more food in his mouth. His eyes widened in delight, even though the food was no doubt cold by now.
Gavin nodded. “Once I realized you were mer, I’d planned to find you again. I got the crew gathered. We’re going on one of the smaller naval ships.”
Kyler tensed and asked. “Farol isn’t the captain, is he? I might have pissed him off.”
“No, I specifically asked for anyone other than Captain Farol. I cited his recovery as the reason.”
“I’m not sorry for stabbing him.”
“I don’t blame you. He’s been an ass since we were kids.” Gavin had to laugh at the look from Kyler. “He’s our cousin. Bastard cousin anyway. His Majesty let him in the Royal Navy and gave him his own ship.”
“I’ve only been on pirate ships, well, other than when I steal from merchants.” Kyler waved his piece of bread at Gavin. “Which again, I’m not sorry for. I’m a pirate and I’m damn good at it.”
“Do you have all the morals of a pirate?”
Kyler lifted his stew bowl and drained it before answering. “I have my own morals. But, no, I’m not a good person, if that’s what you’re really asking. You probably shouldn’t trust me.”
“I’ll keep that in mind.” But Kyler hadn’t tipped off the cuff Damon wore, so he couldn’t be all bad.
“I’m a survivor. Everything I doalwayshinges on that. If it benefits me, I’ll let you take the fall.”
“Noted.” Gavin could appreciate the honesty.
Kyler drained his wine goblet. “If I’m going to be able to function tomorrow, I need sleep.” His tongue darted between his lips and Gavin longed to taste him. Perhaps dessert…
Kyler pushed his bowl out of the way and folded his arms on the table before laying his head in them.
“You’re not sleeping at the table.” Gavin pulled the chair back and picked the man up. Kyler yelped, but wrapped his arms around Gavin’s neck and leaned in.
“We said we’re lovers. We have to act the part, and Damon will expect a show.”
“What does that mean?”
“I don’t sleep alone.”
Chapter 11
KylerletGavincarryhim. Exhaustion was finally pulling him down. Whatever the prince had in mind, he’d go through with it.
He should not have said so much at dinner. But he had a lonely existence not knowing his kind, and the journal was his parents’. He had so many unanswered questions. Maybe the book had the answers. He longed for the day he could call himself free and search out other merfolk. His only hope was the prince and the favors for playing along as his lover. Something he was glad to do.
“Do I get an assigned room?”
Gavin cocked his head, a smile tipped his lips. “No, you’ll be expected to be in my bed in the morning.”
