Page 131 of A Deception of Courts
“But the information could help–”
“Please, do not ask me again,” Erix snapped, his tone exasperated. “I… I am not ready.”
I swallowed hard, forcing the calloused lump back down into the pit of my stomach, where it seeded and spread its roots of anxiety. Only when I brushed the back of my fingers against Erix’s did he seem to snap out of the trance he found himself lost within. I was relieved when he looked back at me. Except, he made no attempt to smile.
“Whatever it was, whatever happened there… it is over,” I said. “The gate has been sealed, and the only way to open it again has been removed from play. Nothing can harm you, or anyone else again.”
Erix straightened, his fists tensing at his side. “I am not a pious man, little bird. But even I pray you are right.”
CHAPTER 36
Althea waited beyond the door, pacing grooves into the ground. Only when she heard our arrival did she stop. I held my breath, expecting to hear her disappointment as she greeted me. Days’ worth of silence unleashed as though she couldn’t wait to release it upon me.
She watched me with a calculating stare. When she spoke, her voice shook ever so slightly. “How is Duncan faring?”
My shoulders sagged forward, unable to hold the weight of his name. I shook my head, dropping my chin to my chest. “Unresponsive, still.”
Before I could look up, her arms were around me. A sob cracked free from my ribs as I buried my tear-slicked face into the mess of her red hair.
“I thought I was doing the right thing,” I spluttered. “I never wished to deceive you or make you feel as though I acted behind your back. I’m sorry.”
“Robin.” Althea’s voice was calm and controlled. “I wish I could tell you I’m not pissed off with you, but it is not in my nature to lie. But I have lost so much already.” Her voice cracked. “I can’t bear the thought of losing you, too.”
I peeled my face from her hair. Althea’s hands fell to mine, and we held onto one another, fingers coiled and firm.
“I’m so sorry,” I said.
“For saving the world, don’t be. For not including me in your plans, then I accept your apology.”
It was on the tip of my tongue to explain why I’d kept it from her, but Althea spoke before I could say anything.
“We will have time to discuss everything, but first, I want us to be reunited. Our courts have always held a close bond. It would be foolish for it to break now. And, for what it’s worth, I believe the decision you made was the right one, remember that.”
“You have all the right to be angry with me,” I replied, squeezing her hands.
“Undoubtedly,” she huffed. “And Iwillmake you pay. But after, and onlyafter, we set the world right. The world your decision has made safe from a demon god. Not just now, forever.”
Pride righted my posture. “I don’t deserve you.”
“I know, but I deserve you,” Althea replied, retrieving her hands from me. She nudged my shoulder as we both faced the closed door. “Do not let Gyah know I am telling you this, but even she has fought your corner. I don’t think she could have been prouder of you. Although, if she finds out I ever told you, she will suck the meat from both our bones.”
“Sounds about right,” I retorted. “With a tongue so sharp, it is no wonder you love her.”
“What can I say.” Althea winked. “There is something rather special about falling into bed, and love, with your personal guard.”
Erix coughed into his fist behind us, reminding us of his presence. My cheeks bloomed with heat, and guilt crept across my consciousness.
I was thankful when Althea drifted on soundless feet toward the door and pushed it open. Inside, the room was bright with the scent of food. My stomach rumbled for the first time in days. The promise of a full stomach enticed me to forget Althea’s comment.
“I will wait for you here,” Erix said coldly.
“Take the evening off,” Althea called over her shoulder. “There are no longer evils lurking in the dark. Robin will be fine.”
“You should know better than anyone, Queen Cedarfall. I made a vow. My word is bound. Robin, Iwillbe waiting for you.”
“For me, or him.”
Erix’s eyes settled on me, answering the question without a reply.
