Ethenn’s eyes widened, and Deckard’s narrowed.
“Is that allowed for a betrothed couple?” Deckard asked.
“Encouraged, actually,” Vayden said.
“I beg your pardon?”
Ilain rolled her eyes and muttered something about prudish Ephrians before facing Ethenn and Deckard. “In Wauld, we don’t have the luxury of pietism. Betrothals are oaths of intent, and the consummation of them, while not always enacted, is regularly viewed as the appropriate means of proving your dedication to the oath. From the time of betrothal, our tradition allows the man and woman to live together. Otherwise, they could be waiting years before the clergy arrived to perform the proper ceremony.”
“But we’re not in that situation,” Ethenn protested.
“No,” Ilain allowed. “But my culture’s traditions remain.”
Fishere interjected with a fatherly tone. “The consummation isn’t required,” he said. “In fact, in this situation, I’d advise against it per Mr. Calder and Colonel Deckard’s advice. Take the betrothal as a chance to test your marriage and ensure a future together is what you truly want.” Then he sent Ilain a knowing look. “Just don’t go trying things you can’t un-try, eh?”
Ilain gave him a pleased smirk. “After forty-three years, you don’t think I can handle a few months, Edmaund?”
“My child,” Fishere said fondly, “you are known for a great many virtues. Restraint isn’t one of them.”
With Ilain’s silent acceptance, Fishere clasped his hands behind his back. “With that taken care of...” He turned to Deckard. “Last night, Highlady Freye put forth the request for your meeting with Lord Obel. He has agreed to receive you at his home here in Mouroc. You are expected...” He glanced at the clock and then grimaced. “In five minutes.”
“We’ll be late,” Vayden said.
“Yes,” Fishere sighed. “As Obel considers Vayden a friend, he will escort you along with Highlord Calder as your current tutor. However, with Blount’s writ, you’ll need to shroud Auden as you move through the city.”
Deckard nodded, then put forth the request he’d been waiting to make. “Sir, I would like Evylin to join me as well.”
“I’m afraid that’s out of the question,” Fishere said instantly. “We’re putting you in enough danger with Auden’s presence. Until the Bonding ceremony tonight, Private Deckard must remain in the protection of our compound here.”
Disappointed but dedicated to Evylin’s safety, Deckard accepted the denial. “Thank you for arranging the meeting, sir,” he said.
“Yes, yes.” Fishere waved his hand at them. “You’re already late, and I have work to do.”
Dismissed, Deckard exited the office with the Calders and Ethenn. Vayden and Auden kissed Ilain on the cheek and shook Ethenn’s hand in congratulations, then stepped toward the hotel’s front door. Deckard offered the couple a smile and his own salutations.
“Colonel,” Ethenn called before he could turn away. He glanced at Ilain, then faced Deckard again. “Thank you—for your advice.”
“Of course,” Deckard said. “Thank you for requesting it.”
Ilain took a step back, understanding in her gaze. “If you’ll excuse me,” she said, “I’d like to share the news with Isla and Reyana.”
Deckard dipped his chin in farewell as Ethenn nodded awkwardly.
Ilain rolled her eyes. “Oh, come here,” she said, then pressed a fierce kiss to Ethenn’s cheek. His temples went pink, and she winked at him. “I’ll see you later, husband.”
Decidedly bemused, Ethenn watched her walk away, lips parted. Then he looked up at Deckard. “What the hell am I supposed to do with her?” he asked, desperation thinning his deep voice.
Working to hold back a laugh, Deckard couldn’t help smiling at the young man. “You’re the one who proposed,” he said.
“Actually,” Ethenn sighed, “she did the proposing.”
“Of course she did.” Now, Deckard did chuckle. “Loxley, as a man who went through a similar predicament only three and a half months ago, may I give you a suggestion?”
“Please do, sir.”
Deckard held his gaze, impressing the significance of the lessons he’d learned over the last one hundred forty-five days. “Be honest,” he said. “You’ve already told her you love her, which is a good start. Continue to be open with her. If you have expectations for your relationship, tell her. If you feel you’refailing her, tell her. If you have questions or reservations,tellher.”
Deckard tapped Ethenn’s chest. “Such honesty will save your heart in the end.”
