Or maybe I just want it to be all.
ChapterForty-One
As someone who trained with Kyanite healers, I attended many births. I never allowed a mother to recuperate without checking on her. So, the following day, I wash, dress in a clean surcoat, grab my satchel, and head to Praxis’ cottage.
As I turn to the left in the center of the town and head toward the palace, the cottages get larger and more elaborate, and the people get ruder as I walk past. Many don’t meet my gaze. A few glare and turn away as I pass them.
I only knock twice on the door of the large stone cottage before it swings open, and Cenric greets me.
“Hello,” he says as he sweeps his vibrant blue eyes over me.
Even though the tall, dark-haired man stands casually, I still picture him in that square, executing those Malachites.
My chest squeezes as I resist the overwhelming urge to flee. “I have come to check on Briley and the baby.”
“You’re Sol.”
“You’re Cenric.” It’s the first thing that popped into my thoughts.
A smirk pulls at the edges of his mouth. “Indeed.”
“May I see her?” I ask.
Instead of moving or welcoming me inside, he folds his arms. “Praxis told me what you did for him.”
My throat turns dry as I think of Gabriel’s warning to not speak of the magical healing.
“I am happy he’s recovered.”
The door pushes open further, and Praxis joins his brother.
“Stop bothering Sol, Cenric.”
“I was not bothering her.” He steps outside and speaks over his shoulder. “I was simply trying to thank her for saving your life.”
Cenric leaves as I enter the cottage Praxis shares with Briley. The home is twice the size as mine, with a bigger main room, a loft, and three doors leading to other bedrooms. Inwardly, I frown as I think of the cramped place where Kassandra and Everly live.
Briley steps from one of the rooms holding the baby in her arms.
Praxis’ footfalls echo against the floor as he moves to where his wife stands. “Sol has come to check on Edvard.”
An instant frown tugs at Briley’s mouth as she speaks in a voice loud enough to carry to me. “I don’t wantthatwoman here.”
My chest squeezes, but I don’t react. I just stand, waiting, hoping she’ll allow me to check on her and the baby.
“Bri—”
“—no, Praxis.” Briley’s mouth thins as she turns and disappears back into the room she came from.
The warrior shifts to look at me, regret in his eyes. “I’m sorry.”
“It’s all right.” I muster a smile. “Has she been well? How has the child been?”
“Good. Both are well. The baby eats constantly, and Briley is moving about like she didn’t just give birth.”
I pull some herbs from my bag and hand them to him. “Make a tea out of these. They will help with healing. She needs to take it slow as her body adjusts.”
Praxis nods and accepts the loose bundle. “Sol…” His jaw clenches as he looks down for several breaths. “I am very appreciative of everything you did for me. I will never forget it. Please, don’t allow my wife to offend you.”
