Page 101 of Knight from the Ashes (Crown and Crest 1)

My palms begin to sweat as I read it, and I become a little dizzy.

Not only did Camellia accuse me of sorcery, but she tasked Henrik with watching me so she can concoct evidence.

And he…agreed.

That’s why he was so agitated that afternoon by the river—that’s why the letter was clenched in his hand.

He didn’t want me to join the party because of my skill with a bow, and it wasn’t because he secretly harbored feelings for me either.

It was because his beloved Camellia asked it of him—a direct order from her Royal Highness herself.

Feeling sick and more than a little confused, I carefully ball the letter and place it back into his pack. I’m just securing the buckles when the door opens, and Henrik’s large silhouette blocks the light. He drops to all fours to crawl in the door, smiling in a friendly way that tells me he knows he looks foolish.

My stomach knots, and tears prick my eyes.

“What are you doing in here?” he asks, sounding as if he’s genuinely happy to see me.

“Pranmore said you were here…” I gulp back my emotions and gesture to his pack. “And it looked like you forgot this, so I was grabbing it for you.”

“I was just coming back for it.” He stands now that he’s inside, though he must lean down due to the low ceiling. “How did you sleep?”

“Fine.”

“I see you still have your hair.”

I nod, trying to smile but feeling as if I’m going to be sick.

My emotions are in a jumble, but I have a realization that’s both clear and confusing—I’m not angry with Henrik. He was doing his duty to the crown, as a good soldier should. And this…this is likely what he’s been trying to discuss with me for days.

I feel...stupid. And naïve.

And so, so disappointed.

I laugh to myself, blinking quickly to hold off the embarrassing tears.

“Hey,” Henrik says softly, helping me to my feet and swinging the pack over his shoulder. “What’s wrong?”

“I’m a little homesick,” I say quietly. “It hit me rather suddenly.”

His eyes soften with compassion. “It happens to the best of us.”

“I think…” I clear my throat. “I might stay here while you go into the mountains. Ayan said you should head west from here instead of north. It’s all I could get out of him, but it might be helpful.”

“Something happened.” Henrik’s voice deepens with concern, and he touches my shoulder. “What is it?”

I smile as I shrug away from him. “Nothing. I just think it’s time I remember that I’m a lady-in-waiting and not an adventuress. When you’re finished with your search, perhaps you can take me back to Cabaranth.”

He shakes his head. “I won’t leave you here.”

“Henrik…”

Though his eyes are still concerned, he gives me a coaxing smile. “You promised to protect me, Lady Clover. Surely you’re not a woman who would go back on her word, are you?”

His gentle teasing makes me laugh, which is horrible becausethatcauses a tear to slip down my cheek.

“Clover.” Henrik steps forward, genuinely concerned now.

“I found Camellia’s note,” I admit as I swipe the unwanted moisture away, unable to hide it from him. “And…I read it.”

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