Page 216 of Beast and Remedy
I falter. “The woods? And why arm myself? What makes you think—”
“There’s no chaos in the ballroom, so I can only assume she’s gone elsewhere. And she’s always preferred the outdoors.” He pulls me closer, lowering his voice. “And if she’s already attacked you, she’s at risk of being a threat.”
I swallow the lump in my throat, understanding. “Who are you bringing?”
“Leo, Marcel, and probably Jer. I trust them, and they are friendly faces for Marian. And Jerrick is a force to be reckoned with.”
Memories surface of when I saw what King Jerrick could do so long ago… Fear and terror creep up my spine and I try to move past it, hoping this circumstance will be different to the King of Palaena.
“What about King Vinzent and Prince Stefan?” I ask. “He and Marian have gotten close lately.”
“I don’t know him.”
His sharp tone drives forth speculation. “Is that the only reason?”
Beau hesitates, his gaze drifting to the party and guests. When he turns back, he lowers his voice. “I don’t want to risk anythingwhen it comes to saving Marian. Regardless if he has helped us or not, I don’t trust him yet.”
With no time to peel apart his true feelings for the prince, I shrug, needing to act. “I’ll meet you outside the stables.”
Beau releases my elbow but catches my wrist when I veer away. He pulls me in, his lips crashing against mine.
The kiss is quick and surprising, my vision blurring from how perfect it feels to have him whisk me back into his arms.
Remembering where we are, I panic and shove him back.
He opens his eyes, unafraid and unapologetic as he vows, “We’ll find her. We’ll save her. And when this is all done, you and I are going totalk.” He doesn’t move to release me, and so, again, I have to be the one to push him away.
Every time I do, it breaks my heart. Lifting my skirts, I turn and sprint for the weapon room.
I don’t dwell on what he wants to talk about.
I don’t ruminate on what happens when this is all done.
I only worry about saving my sister.
Autumn, The Makers Year 1025
My love, my Beau,
Your words leave my heart fluttering as much as anytime I lay eyes on you. I cannot help the smile across my cheeks as I write this to you, finding it silly when I look back over your previous correspondence from our childhood, disbelieving us ever spending time apart.
However, I am glad for that distance, despite missing you, and our friendship fading for a duration. I believe it gave us the ability to grow into our own minds, our own knowledge, as if it was fated by the Makers themselves. As if they were anticipating our reunion, wanting us to have a piece of ourselves to offer to the other once the timing was perfect. And how blissful this time is, here with you.
I cannot wait to see you for my sister and my name day celebration. As much as I want every waking moment to be with you, I will allow you chances to converse with others and join the hunting party.
Every new letter, every smile, every glance you gift me expands my love for you.
I love you, B.
Only and always yours,
Rosebud
48
Taking Hold
Our friends and family offer to search the castle, Jules changing and readying to find us should they locate Marian inside while we navigate the woods. Veryon and Hugo agree to monitor the party with Tove’s help to ensure everyone remains preoccupied in our absence.
