“There they are,” Frid pointed, and I saw Tynan and Victor sparring together.
The other men formed a circle around them, watching the exchange of heavy blows. It was not a particularly fair fight since Tynan towered over Victor. Both of them held thick, wooden sticks that were supposed to substitute swords.
“Just like the good old days.” Frid smiled, crossing her arms on her chest.
I watched the two men, shirtless, circling each other. My breath caught as I saw the muscles in Tynan’s back flex. My cheeks flushed. It was embarrassing, but I could not take my eyes off his golden skin, perfectly shaped arms, and his fast, confident movements when his whole body worked in perfect union.
“He’s dropping his arm way too low.” Frid observed.
“Who?”
“Victor. Aren’t you watching?”
“Oh, yes. I see.” I bit my lip, because clearly I saw nothing.
“Just imagine the shock if I could join them. It’s nothing new. I’ve heard all the sneers and remarks many times before,” she muttered.
“Frid! Long time,” a vaguely familiar voice called, and both of us turned.
I recognized Denis, who, thank the gods, knew nothing about me.
“Denis?” Frid tilted her head to the side.
“Did you come to join the training?”
“Nah. We’re just passing by.”
“It’s a shame that they don’t allow women to join,” he said as his eyes landed on my face.
I lowered my gaze, not willing to get myself involved in any drama. From what I remembered, I had talked to him a couple of times and he got some wild ideas.
“Who’s your friend?” He looked straight at me.
I stayed silent, forcing Frid to give him my name.
“Aly. Her name is Aly.”
“Aly? Nice to meet you, Aly,” he said.
Frid watched me for some time, before returning her attention to Denis. They talked about the news from the town, and their training while I stayed quiet. There was no way I would give him anything to work with. One time was enough.
“Hey, if you need a training partner, I have time,” he said, his gaze fixed directly on me.
“Sure. It’s always more fun to train together.” Frid responded.
Suddenly, I heard a muffled groan.
“What the fuck, Ty?” Victor shouted.
I turned to where the two men were practicing and saw Tynan walking toward us, his expression unmistakably savage. I should have been intimidated, but other feelings filled my head and I welcomed his exhibition of raw, possessive, dominance. My breath caught, and I felt the pull. It was nearly impossible to suppress.
Tynan stopped directly in front of Denis, who did not seem intimidated at all.
“Darragh? What can I do for you?” Denis placed his hand on the hilt of his sword.
“Move along,” Tynan said.
“What?” Denis chuckled.
