Page 26 of Ladybird

“Mayhap we should go to the kitchen and get something for Inky to eat,” suggested Luke.

“Good idea,” agreed Fred. “I think most cats like meat. Follow me.” The boys ran off, leaving Hunter standing there feeling like a fool. God’s teeth, why wouldn’t the boy listen to him?

“I think I’ll start my investigation in the stables today,” Hunter told the others. “Tell me again. Which one of the knights had his horse stolen?”

“It was Sir Elwood,” Sage supplied the information.

“And where would I find Sir Elwood?” asked Hunter.

“I can introduce you to him,” Robin offered. “As well as the guard who had his sword stolen. Mayhap they can give you some insight of what actually happened.”

“Yes, that will be a good start. My ladies,” said Hunter with a bow. “I will let you continue with your conversation.”

“You don’t need to bow to us,” said Sage. She leaned forward and spoke in a hushed voice. “After all, you are a noble too now, remember.”

“Oh. Yes, I suppose you are right.” Hunter wasn’t sure about this. He would feel as if he were disrespecting the nobles if he didn’t, but supposed he needed to keep up appearances. He wasn’t sure he’d ever get used to this act of pretending to be a noble.

“So, Robin. Hunter is no longer going to be spending time in the mews?” asked Regina, surprising Hunter that she was even asking as if she cared. He thought she’d be jumping for joy not to have to be around him.

“Nay, I thought we just covered that,” said Robin. “You said you agreed.”

“That’s right,” broke in Hunter. “There seems to be no need for me in the mews since you so clearly pointed out that I would not find this thief by spending time there.”

“True, but my birds might be in danger,” she blurted out. “I think it would be a good thing if Hunter didn’t stray far. I mean, in case he is needed.”

“Ah, yes.” Hunter stroked his beard. “But the question is, will I be in danger too? I mean, I don’t take a fancy to being slapped around.”

Hunter was toying with her, but saw that she wasn’t in a playful mood this morning. Her brows dipped and she frowned at him.

“Never mind. I don’t need his help. I will be in the mews if anyone is looking for me.” She turned and bolted off, leaving Hunter dumbfounded.

“I said the wrong thing, didn’t I?” Hunter asked Robin. “I was only jesting, trying to lighten the mood.”

“I’m not sure,” said Robin. The men watched Regina storm through the corridor nearly knocking into several servants along the way. “I gave up knowing just why women do or say anything. It never makes a bit of sense to me.”

“Robin, stop being so insensitive,” scolded Sage. “Can’t you two tell that Regina’s feelings were hurt?”

“Hurt? I hurt her? How?” For the life of him, Hunter didn’t know how to act around the girl. One minute Regina was kissing him with passion and seeming like she enjoyed it. The next, she was slapping him or storming away in a huff. “What do you think is bothering her?” Hunter scratched the back of his neck in thought.

“With Regina, one never knows.” Robin shrugged. “I wouldn’t worry about it. She’s probably having her flux and should stop being so grouchy in a few days.”

“You both are truly simpkins, aren’t you?” snapped Sage.

Hunter and Robin looked at each other in confusion but didn’t dare say a word. Sage was pregnant with twins and it probably wouldn’t be wise to upset her.

“The poor girl has already spent the morning as the brunt of gossip because you can’t keep your breeches on, Hunter. Haven’t you caused her enough trouble already?” Sage stormed away as well.

“Thief-taker, is there something you want to tell me?” Robin shot him a daggered look.

“Nay. Not really,” he said, turning to walk away. Hunter stopped and looked back at Robin and held up a finger. “Except, who do I speak to about getting a bath sent to my chamber in the future?”