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Chapter Fifteen

Aedre

It’s dark now, and the rain has stopped. Father no doubt will be looking for me. Though I don’t wish to leave, it is time.

“I will walk you home.”

We stand in front of the Sailor’s Inn, the docks quiet after the storm. I hold onto my skirts in order not to muddy the hem, an effort sure to end in failure.

“I’ve made the journey alone many, many times. ’Tis safe enough for me here.”

None in the village would harm me.

“It may be safe, but still, I would walk you home.”

Father will certainly learn of the time we spent this eve, for enough people saw Vanni and I together that someone is sure to tell him of it. Perhaps he might worry less knowing the commander is an honorable man.

I need no protection, but Father does not always agree.

So I simply nod and lead the way toward the vast darkness that is the Merian Sea. We walk in silence along the water, and I think on what I’ve learned about Vanni this day. His parents’ death and his upbringing at Castle d’Almerita. Three things have become clear this day.

For one, he loves the king as he would a father. The reasons are plain enough, and I’m anxious to speak to Amma about his revelations. She is as mistrustful of King Galfrid as anyone, yet the man Vanni describes is not the monster Kipp believes his father to be.

I’ve also learned my mistrust of all nobles may have been misplaced. I know Vanni will not share my secrets, just as I would never share his.

Last, I now know what desire feels like, not only how it makes people behave. The stirrings I’ve experienced in the past are like ripples in the sea compared to the thunderous waves that now crash within me.

I think of him when I wake and when I lay my head down to sleep. I imagine my hand in his, the dark waves of his hair, or his thick arms encircling me. It’s why I fled from that cave, scared to remain in such close proximity to him. I know how quickly desire can spiral out of control. Many a maid, a babe in her belly, only thought to steal a simple kiss.

“When do you think Aldwine will return?”

The moon shines brightly before us, illuminating our path.

“Soon,” I say, stealing a glance at Vanni. “Though I meant what I said. He will not return to the south with you.”

I say it not to antagonize him, but because it is almost certainly the truth.

“If he does not, I fear for the kingdom.”

“Is Lord Hinton as horrible as the rumors suggest?”

I’ve heard enough over the years from traders to know he would not be an ideal leader.

“When his father, the king’s brother, died, Hinton refused to lay him to rest. Said he’d done him no favors and could rot in hell despite the fact that father and son are very much alike. The man is truly despicable. And yet, the church intends to back him anyway. It’s maddening.”

The sound of water lapping against the docks lulls us back into our companionable silence. Turning away from the water, we walk toward the outer buildings of our small village. When we hired a maidservant a few years ago, my father said he could rest easy, having achieved far more than he’d ever thought possible.

“Is that it there?” He points into the distance.

“Aye.” I stop, contemplating.

“Father would be pleased you’ve accompanied me. However . . .”

We’re just behind the mill, hidden well enough now, but we will be easily seen once we enter the open field. If we are to part ways, now would be the time.

And yet, I’m reluctant for Vanni to leave.

“I will watch you from here,” he says courteously.