Page 27 of Leafpoint Lighthouse

Well, now. That was interesting.

“So, you are ordering me to leave Leafpoint, but are unaware of what you’re hiding here?”

“I am not order—”

“Yes, you are. Do you know how you died?”

William blinked and then chuckled. “That was blunt.”

“And honest.”

“No, I don’t,” William ran a hand over his chin.

Another surprise. What was going on here? I ate the stew, and it really was tasty. With the bread, I mopped up the juice and studied William.

“You have no idea how you died. You are unaware of what evil you’re keeping trapped. Is there anything you do know? Other than I need to get out!”

“If you stay, the evil will be released.”

“How can you be sure of that?”

William

I opened my mouth and then closed it, frowning. That was a good question. Ajax hadn’t told me that; it was something I’d convinced myself of. I sat back in the chair and stared at Lyra, who was patiently waiting for a response. She cocked an eyebrow at me, and I shook my head.

“I just am,” I replied, rather uselessly.

“I see. When you learn an answer, share with the class. Until then, I’m going nowhere,” she stated. Lyra stood, collected our bowls, carried them to the sink, and began washing them.

“You got attacked,” I reminded her.

“Yes, thank you for that reminder. Even so, this is my home. You won’t understand, not looking like you do, but I need Leafpoint,” Lyra said.

“What does that mean?”

“Really, William? You’re gorgeous in any day and age. Those beautiful eyes, long lashes, your mouth, nose, strong cheekbones and neatly trimmed beard. Any woman would kill to be your wife,” Lyra stated baldly and stunned me. That was a bold statement, and I wasn’t exactly sure how to answer. Did I thank her?

Lyra laughed. “That shocked you speechless. Are you pretending you’re not handsome?”

“I…” I managed in a strangled voice.

“You’re blushing,” Lyra teased, sounding amused.

“You’re being quite direct,” I replied.

Lyra shrugged. “Yeah, by your standards, probably. But tell me what I said wasn’t wrong. I bet women swarmed you. William, you wouldn’t understand what it’s like to be lonely. I doubt you’ve ever been frightened that the scraps of affection offered to you might be snatched away.

“This lighthouse is my haven, my safe place. I won’t allow you or anyone to take it from me. There are things called exorcisms nowadays, and I will call a priest in.”

With that threat, Lyra turned, then strode off. As she walked up the stairs, she tossed one last comment over her shoulder. “Don’t spy on me in the shower or getting dressed! And help yourself to whatever food you want.”

Damn, I was offended. I was not some bounder who’d watch her undress. How dare Lyra suggest that? I had never had to force a woman… and I just proved her point. Arrogance!

I sighed. This was a minefield, and I’d no idea how to navigate this situation.

Leafpoint chuckled, and I scowled. Then she pinched me. I had to refill the oil.

That was worrying. Leafpoint’s reserves were dropping. I needed more. Perhaps Lyra could tell us where to buy whale oil. I couldn’t exactly walk into town and order it. Walking upstairs, I resolved myself to begging Lyra for help.