Page 56 of The King's Sword
“Thank you.” It felt as if the tension in the room eased and Sabine could relax.
“I have a question,” Carin said. “Why do you trust my brother to keep you safe? Are you friends?”
Sabine peered over at Evander and found him watching her. She smiled at him. “Friends?” she said to Carin, not looking at her. “You think I actually like your brother?”
He raised a single eyebrow. “Of course she likes me,” he responded, keeping his focus on Sabine and not once looking at his sister. “How could she not? I’m an excellent conversationalist with a witty personality.”
Sabine chuckled. “That is debatable.” She looked away from him and reached for her cup of water, taking a drink.
“Forgive me for saying this, but you have quite the reputation for being a flirt,” Gemma said. “Now that you’re married, I hope that is no longer the case.”
Sabine blinked, heat searing through her as she looked over at Gemma, confirming that Evander’s sister was indeed talking to her. She didn’t know why Gemma felt the need to bring it up. She pursed her lips, knowing she had to respond. If this were her family, she’d push right back and not cower. She had to behave the same now.
Sabine looked at Gemma. “Why? Are you afraid I’m going to flirt with you?” She batted her eyelashes.
Evander burst out laughing.
“No,” Gemma responded, looking from Evander to Sabine. “I was just concerned about my brother.”
“Good grief,” Evander said as he stood. “I’m going to take my leave before this gets any more embarrassing.” He pulled Sabine’s chair out. “I’ll escort you back to your room,” he said to her. And then to everyone else, “It’s been a long day, and we’re both exhausted.”
“It was a pleasure to meet you,” Serilda said.
As Sabine stood, she smiled sweetly and said, “Thank you all for a lovely evening.” She bowed her head, showing respect for the king and queen, before following Evander from the room.
Outside, the wind blew softly. Sabine folded her arms, trying to stay warm.
The two of them walked along a pathway and onto one of the many bridges.
Halfway across, Sabine stopped to admire it all. Leaning her arms on the railing, she took in the glowing lanterns reflecting on the water, the bright moon, and the twinkling stars. “This may be the first time I’ve seen the sky here in Avoni.” Granted, there were still some thick clouds here and there.
When Evander didn’t respond, she glanced over her shoulder. He stood behind her, leaning against the railing, watching her. “What is it?” she asked.
He shrugged. “Nothing.”
Not believing him, she went over and joined him, leaning her back against the railing and imitating his stance. “Is everything okay?” She looked at his torso as if she could see the cut through his tunic. Maybe the exertion of the day had taken its toll on him.
“Everything is fine.” He tilted his head back, looking up at the sky.
“Can I ask you something?”
He peered at her, his green eyes almost glowing under the moonlight. “You can ask me anything.” His voice rang with sincerity.
“Are your sisters normally this overprotective of you?” What she really wanted to know was what Carin had said to him before supper. However, coming out and asking seemed impolite and nosy.
He reached back, placing his hands on the railing. “I’m the youngest. I’m sure you know what that feels like with older siblings, even when you’re old enough to take care of yourself.”
“I do.” Sabine turned and faced the water, sliding her hands over the railing. Her left hand extended toward Evander’s but not quite touching his.
“Gemma…well, she was interested in a man who my parents didn’t care for. His skills weren’t as honed as one would expect. I expressed my concern over the match. I think she was just trying to get me back at supper. Don’t take anything she said too seriously.”
Sabine nodded. “And Carin?” She looked at Evander’s long fingers curled around the railing. She wanted to trace her finger over the back of his hand but didn’t dare touch him.
“She just wanted to know what was going on before supper.” He shifted his hand and his finger touched hers.
Neither of them moved.
“I should get you to your room,” Evander whispered.
