He grimaces as she walks over and takes a big strip of bruntler.
Sighing deeply, he walks off, and she follows him, latching on like a tick.
I know I should have entertained him longer instead of casting him to Amber, but I can’t bring myself to conjure any feelings for the Tempest man.
That doesn’t matter…
It’s true, and now that I’m no longer seen as the weakest of the Penticari, there’s no reason I shouldn’t get to know the Tempest men and engage in courtship.
But the cold season will come, eventually, and it would be good of me to dedicate my time wholly to my weaves.
Or at least that’s what I tell myself.
23
RAMSEY
I arrive in the caves, finding Grixis, Araelya, and Nori already waiting.
For long days, I have loathed what must be done. That I must be the bearer of such tragic news.
But both tribes deserve to hear it, so they know how dire the situation is.
Elena, Meg, and Asha join us, and a short time later, Ulof and Eddard.
She refuses to look at me, my Little Vaeyark, and I cannot say I blame her, for how she bared herself to me deserved more than my dismissal.
Scanning the room, her blue eyes widen in wonder, her cheeks flushing with the irresistible pink hue I so love.
Oh, how I have lost sleep from the desire to run my fingers through her gold-spun hair, which is now woven into a loose braid over her shoulder.
But she is not meant for me.
When her eyes find me, inadvertently, her smile fades, and her eyes seek the cave floor.
I am shamed.
Once everyone is seated, Grixis stands and looks at Asha. “I trust that what is said within these walls will not be repeated elsewhere.”
She nods.
He looks at me. “Fenrick is out scouting, and I will pass on all that is discussed.”
I close my eyes and exhale, willing myself to tell him the dreaded words he will never forgive me for.
“Well?” Grixis says in question.
I rise, looking over the gathered Tempest men and Penticari women, and say, “I have called both councils together because I believe each one deserves to learn this truth together.”
“Get on with it,” Grixis says, claiming his seat.
“Forgive me.”
Elena chuckles. “For calling us weak?”
She thinks this is a joke.
I wish it was.
