Page 82 of Beast and Remedy
Stress and exhaustion can do that to a person, Vi.
No, I don’t think it was. Everything the esprit said seems true. Seems hopeful. And hope is something I’m desperate for. Besides a chance to read a good book.
My stroll back is quick, the worry over predators in the woods increasing my pace. I don’t even bother taming my wavy tresses or wiping the mud off my feet as I pass the threshold of the dining hall, stopping everyone mid-conversation.
“Vi,” Marian breathes with a fork of eggs halfway to her mouth.
I cannot imagine what my appearance is like, but given everyone’s widened eyes and surprised expressions, I must look awful.
Pierre arches a brow, but Jean addresses me normally. “Are you hungry?”
I shrug, not bothering to sit close to anyone. Instead, I pull out the closest chair and slink into it, wanting a bed more than a hard seat.
Deities, I will have to set out tomorrow if the esprit is right.
A staff member finishes filling Christine’s glass as Jean asks them to bring me a plate. When the woman leaves, Beau’s voice pulls my gaze up from the table.
“Are you alright?”
My heart wrenches from the worry in his eyes and the assurance he seeks to give. I hide the blush forming along my cheeks, unwilling to draw any attention to my reaction.
“Did you shift again?” Leo asks as he cuts a slice of meat.
Marcel elbows his side, and Leo glares.
“What? We all already know what she is.”
His statement feels like a slap in the face. I know it shouldn’t.
But it does, and I can’t help my rising anger. “Just like we all know what you are?”
He squints. “And what is that?”
“A dick.”
Christine snorts, her fork clanking from dropping it as Jules covers her mouth.
Jean and Pierre cough into their drinks, and Marcel and Beau shake their head at Leo’s stunned features.
And he did. He most definitely did, and I don’t regret letting my manners slip, taking it as a blessing after the night I just had.
Leo’s gaze returns to mine, flickering between annoyed and impressed.
I simply smirk and shrug, paying him no heed as the staff returns and offers me a plate of food. I extend my gratitude and begin eating, calming before I say any more.
One thing at a time. And more time to gather my bearings before I drop the news of my departure.
At least I will be welcomed by Prince Stefan when I arrive. He seemed keen on spending time with me and my sister, and I pray to the Makers that sending a raven of my arrival will grant me passage into his home. Cause for celebration or not, there is something I need from his lands.
I just have to figure it out between now and when I arrive.
Finishing my food, I take a sip of my water, aware of everyone monitoring me. They all stayed here like they know I have something to share.
My eyes meet Beau’s, and I hold his stare longer than is safe. But I can’t help it. Being in the same room eases my trepidation and anxiety.
And I need to no longer let that happen.
Not if, when this is all over, I will lose him again.
