Page 51 of Hungry Like a Wolf
“It is a good omen,” Erin said, “that Odin celebrates with you, King Ravn.”
Ravn banged his chest. “Now I know for sure that the gods favor me once again. I took risks to step back onto the path of my destiny but it has paid off and here I am, prosperous and happy.” He reached for Carmel’s hand. “And with a beautiful new queen at my side.”
Chapter Thirteen
The feasting wenton until dusk painted the sky lilac and pink. The air cooled and an owl called from the shadows of the forest.
Carmel spotted a woman in the crowd of revelers, long, blonde hair loose and her eyes darting constantly Carmel’s way. After a while, she spoke to Joseph. “Who is that?”
“Who?”
“The pretty woman. She keeps staring at me.”
“That is Helga.” He paused. “Take no notice.”
“What do you mean?”
He cleared his throat.
“Joseph?”
“You won’t want to hear it,” said the thrall.
“But I command it.” She was sure she’d heard the name before.
“Of course, Your Grace.” He inclined his head. “She was your husband’s bed companion and a carer for little Thormod this past winter gone, after he lost Queen Siggy.”
“Oh, I see.” She looked at Helga anew. This was a woman who had bedded her husband. Knew what that entailed. Survived. “And she resents me being here?”
“No.” Joseph shook his head. “She told me she admires your bravery for completing such a journey and she envies your beauty.”
“She said that?”
“Those very words.” He smiled gently. “Do not fear. You have no rivals here. This is your home now.”
She looked at Ravn, suddenly curious to see if his attention should stray to Helga’s. It didn’t. He appeared oblivious of her as he spoke loudly to his companions at the table and called for more mead.
“Your Grace,” Erin said, leaning close, her shoulder brushing Carmel’s. “Shall I help you prepare for bed?”
Carmel gulped. Just the thought of bedtime—bedtime with Ravn—had her stomach clenching. “No, thank you. I can manage.”
“Are you sure?”
“Aye, this is something I must bear alone.”
Erin smiled. “I think you will find it takes two. And you won’t have to bear it. You’ll enjoy it, not least because your husband is a fine king.”
Carmel didn’t answer. Instead, she stood, brushed a few crumbs from her dress, and took a deep breath.
Several heads turned her way. The hum of conversation dulled. More people’s attention landed on her.
“How do I saythank youin your language?” she asked Ravn.
“Takk skal du ha.”
She tilted her chin and pasted a smile on her face. “Takk skal du ha.”
“To our new queen.Skål!”Joseph shouted, raising his horn of ale. “All hail Queen Carmel.”
