Page 34 of Aria's Desire

Liar.

Okay, maybe she was a little worked up, and the urge to find out what Rellik was hiding, or at least something similar, was an irresistible lure.

Did he notice she’d looked? Also yes, but he didn’t appear offended. If anything, he looked hopeful, his pale orange eyes, that had been taking in every inch of her, widened excitedly. Until she glanced away just as quickly. Then his face fell a little.

If you’re looking to be claimed, you knocked on the wrong fucking door, kid. Got ninety-nine problems, and men are all of them. I’m not looking to add another.

“Can I help you?” she finally prompted since he didn’t look inclined to speak first.

Blinking rapidly, he offered a stilted bow. “Queen Ishtal offers joyful risings and extends an invitation to join her for a private meal.”

Holding in a sigh of relief she wouldn’t have to sit through another feast so soon, Aria nodded. “Tell her I accept. Thanks.”

She started to close the door, only to stop short when he made a garbled sound. Opening it again, she raised her brows expectantly, hoping he wasn’t going to ask the question painted all over his face, because it very clearly said he wanted to invite her to sample hiswares.

“I, er, Queen Ishtal thought you might enjoy a tea to begin your day,” he offered almost shyly as he pulled a rolling tray into view.

Keeping her eyes on him, she asked, “Has it been poisoned?”

Was she taking advantage of his lack of control over his expression? Absolutely.

She didn’t think he could’ve looked more appalled if he’d tried. Shaking his head, he all but yelled, “No!” Grimacing, he softened his voice, but it was no less vehement as he continued, “Apologies, Queen. No, I assure you. I made it myself, and no one has had access to it.”

Narrowing her eyes up at him, she asked, “You’re not opposed to joining the war?”

If he found her question abrupt, he didn’t show it. “I am loyal to the Queen. The decisions she makes are in our best interests.”

“That’s not an answer.”

“I… yes, I believe it is time we left hiding.” He paused to scan up and down the hall, then leaned forward and lowered his voice to a whisper. “I heard of the attempt on you at the feast. I would have you know that most of us are in agreement with Queen Ishtal. We welcome your presence here, Vhraress, and are joyous to join your mission.”

Aria smiled, despite his use of her gladiator name. He couldn’t know she disliked being called that. “That’s good to hear… what was your name?”

His eyes went wide again, and she could’ve sworn he blushed, the base of his horns turning the faintest bit lavender. “I am Nichi.”

“Nice to meet you, Nichi. Do you ever work in the kitchens?” At his nod, she smiled again. “Do me a favor?”

“Anything,” he breathed.

“Keep an eye out for us, would you? Try to thwart further poisoning attempts?”

He straightened, drawing himself up to his full height, and nodded. “I will do this.”

“Thanks.”

That time he definitely blushed. Looking flustered, he bowed again, pushed the cart inside, and left, still standing proud and looking determined as he retreated down the hallway.

Chuckling, Aria shut the door and turned around to find Sin and Rellik standing shoulder to shoulder, glaring at it.

Shifting his gaze to her, Sin asked, “What did he want?”

Aria raised her brows. “You couldn’t hear?”

“Yes.”

Confused, she looked at him askance. “Then, you know what he wanted.”

He didn’t react to that irrefutable logic other than to narrow his eyes farther and growl a little. Still eyeing her, he approached the cart and sniffed everything before reluctantly grunting that it smelled safe.

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