Page 8 of The Poison of the Earth
No one will be killing me anytime soon. I made that decision many years ago, while those monsters tried to break me.
It’s Lonan’s rich voice that speaks. “Easy, little maid. You’re safe.”
My skin erupts in goosebumps and irritation—at the idea that my body finds his voice soothing—runs through me.
They both turn to leave and desperation flows over me.
“Wait! Please, do not leave me here, alone and bored. Let me be useful. I can work. I’ll be happy not to be cooped up. Please.”
Lilac’s green eyes flick to Lonan even as he raises an eyebrow.
“Not yet, little maid.”
And they both stride out.
The door closes heavily behind them and I hear the lock click.
“Fuck me.”
IT’S THE NEXT DAY ANDI’ve read all four books that were here, and taken three very long, very hot showers. And napped. Which, I must admit, was a luxury. The food that was brought was a huge step above what was served in my little gaol cell, and after the second meal that I sent back a licked-clean plate, I started getting larger portions.Goddess bless cooks.
When the door opens in the early evening, I assume it’s dinner. I’m laying on my belly, re-starting a book, my legs in the air, enjoying the chill coming in the open window.
“Thank you,” I say without looking up, feet slowly paddling in the air.
When several beats pass without the door closing, I set my finger on my place on the page and look up.
And there, dark brown hair in artistic disarray, is Commander Lonan, a small smirk upon his chiseled face. I gawp at him for a moment before scrambling to my feet.
As I shake out my skirts, he chuckles softly. “Don’t worry, little maid. I’m not one for ceremony.”
My gaze immediately flicks up to his. “Is that so? I have heard you’ve had soldiers beheaded for not showing proper deference.”
Another laugh and he cocks a dark brow. “Do you not see the difference between soldiers and maids?”
I glare at him. “No. Both are sworn. Both see no other way through their circumstances. Unless of course, you’re speaking of conscripted soldiers or indentured servants?
His gaze narrows. “And are you either, Allie?” He steps closer to me and I back up.
“No,” I say quietly, his eyes boring into me.
I feel the back of the bed frame hit my legs as Lonan advances upon me, eyes intent and hand rising.
“Stop, my lord, please!” I cry in a falsetto. “You are frightening me!”
My words register and he immediately steps back. Far. And he looks at the window, apologetic. “I’m sorry if I startled you, Allie. It was not my intent.”
And then, Commander Lonan, most feared Fae of all the realms, spins on his heel and flees.
Perfect.
THE NEXT MORNING, JUSTas I place my tray near the door, it opens. Lilac walks in, purple hair slicked back and a navy blue cloak tossed over one arm. In her hands are a stack of books. She stops and studies me where I stand frozen near her.
“I brought you these at the Commander’s request,” she says quietly as she holds out the stack.
I grin and bound over, “Thank you so much! I’m bored as stones.” I take them out of her hand and her intense green eyes bore into mine.
I smile again, hoping, wanting to win her over. She merely studies my face and quirks an eyebrow at me before nodding. She turns and slips out of the room, the door locking behind her.
