Page 65 of Too Many Beds

But his blatant honesty seemed to chip away at Marek's frost. The other man angled his head as if Arcanus were a strange creature he was trying to figure out. Then Marek nodded. “Let's get a drink, then.”

Marek hesitated as he followed Arcanus out of the castle and towards the nearby tavern. What would people think, seeing him with Arcanus? Would they think heapprovedof magical artisans?

But, as they entered the tavern, Marek found himself drawn to Arcanus's presence. The mage's green eyes sparkled with joy as he ordered drinks for them both, and Marek couldn't help but admire the way his long fingers wrapped around the mug.

They settled at a table in the corner, away from prying eyes. Marek took a long swig of his ale, trying to ignore the way his breath caught every time Arcanus's knee brushed against his beneath the table.

“I'm glad you agreed to come,” Arcanus said. “I know we don’t see eye to eye, but I wanted someone to share this moment with. We both worked hard and have much to show for it. Your artistry is exceptional.”

A flush crept up Marek’s neck. He wasn't used to compliments, especially not from someone like Arcanus. “I... I appreciate that,” he mumbled, staring down at his drink.

As the night wore on, Marek opened up to Arcanus in ways he never had before, with anyone. He talked about his childhood, his father's passing, and the pressure he felt to carry on the family legacy. The wizard listened intently, his eyes never leaving Marek's face.

For the first time in a long while, Marek didn't feel so alone. He had always been so focused on his work, on proving himself, that he had never taken the time to connect with someone on a deeper level. And yet, here he was, sharing his deepest thoughts and feelings with the one person who worked so differently.

Marek leaned back in his chair, eyes fixed on Arcanus. The ale had loosened his tongue, and he found himself genuinely curious. “So, why didyouenter the competition?”

Arcanus sighed, swirling his drink thoughtfully. “The other spellcasters see me as a failure.” His lyrical voice was tinged with bitterness. “They think my work is frivolous, that I'm wasting my talents on furniture instead of pursuing more 'important' magical endeavors.”

Marek's brows furrowed in disbelief. “They're idiots, then.” The words slipped out before he could stop them, but he didn't regret it. Arcanus looked up, a flicker of surprise and amusement dancing in his beautiful eyes.

“Are they now?” Arcanus's lips curved into a small smile, warmth seeping into his expression.

Marek nodded firmly. “Absolutely. Your work is incredible, magic or not.”

The wizard chuckled softly. Marek found the sound oddly endearing.

“And you?” Arcanus asked, tilting his head slightly. “Why didyouenter?”

Marek took a deep breath. “Ihaveto win,” he whispered, staring into his ale. “Or at least do well enough to gain recognition. Otherwise... I can't afford to keep my woodworking business going.”

Arcanus's gaze softened with understanding. “That's a heavy burden to bear.”

Marek shrugged, trying to mask the vulnerability that threatened to spill over. “It's my father's legacy. I can't let it die.”

The wizard appeared thoughtful, lips pursed. Then, as if he'd come to a decision, he nodded. “We must make certain you win, in that case.”

“What?” Marek blurted, startled by the words. “Why?”

Arcanus smiled. “My reason is… vanity, I suppose.Yourreason isimportant.”

Marek shook his head. “Your reason is valid, too. I'm sure it's hard, being looked down on like that.” Marek had been guilty of that, too. And while he still felt that magic gave Arcanus an unfair advantage, Marek was seeing more and more of thepersonbehind that power.

“It is, but I know my worth. Even if others don't.” Arcanus suddenly rose. He reached into a pouch at his belt and pulled out a handful of gold coins, dropping them on the table. “Come on.”

Marek blinked, his alcohol-hazed mind unable to keep up with the spellcaster. “What?”

“You say that quite a bit when you're sloshed,” Arcanus said with a chuckle. “We need to make sure you win.”

“What?” Marek asked again.

The wizard sighed. He offered a hand, and Marek took it, rising to join him. “You and me. Make sureyou win.” Arcanus aimed his index finger at Marek, just in case that was unclear.

“But why?” Marek asked, unable to hide his bewilderment that anyone would help him, much less this man.

“Because you should never have to give up your dream,” Arcanus said, the words so simple but so heartfelt.

Marek's breath caught in his throat.

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