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“Don’t forget to say please.”
He turned his head towards her. “Please.”
Tempest rose and moved to sit on the edge of the cot, ignoring the venom that practically dripped from that single word. “See, that wasn’t so hard. People are much more willing to help you if you ask nicely. They’ll usually do a better job of it, too, if they do it of their own free will. A little ruler-of-all-the-lands tip for you.”
He groaned as she rubbed salve on a bruise forming on his shoulder. “Who are you to give me advice?”
“Nobody special. Just someone who has saved your life twice in less than a day. Possibly the only person you can currently trust, at least until you figure out who tried to murder you.”
Aiden watched as she dipped her fingers in the bowl and prepared to rub salve across his stomach. “Thank you,” he said softly.
Tempest paused and allowed a smile to spread across her face and reach her eyes. “You’re welcome.”
He flinched as she continued to work the salve into his skin. “You’re right. I don’t know who I can trust.”
“What do you plan to do about that?”
Aiden’s hand slowly moved to rest atop hers. As if the words themselves were painful, he asked, “Would you be willing to help me?”
She laughed. “After asking so nicely, how can I refuse?”
His brow furrowed. “Are you making fun of me?” he growled.
“I would never, your majesty,” she responded lightly, not bothering to hide the glint in her eye. “As soon as you are healed enough, we will find transportation and get you back to your castle. I’ll help you figure out who tried to kill you.”
His hand moved away from hers as he closed his eyes and nodded.
Chapter 4
Tempestenteredtheinnwith a tray of empty cups and bowls. She carried her goods to the sink and placed them in it herself. The dining room was full, and the counter was likewise without an open seat. Tempest looked for Tavora and was unsuccessful, but did find a younger woman bussing another table and approached her.
“Do you need any help?”
The woman handed a pile of plates over and picked up the mugs on the table. “Thank you! I didn’t expect to see you in here during our rush. Of course this would be when they come to talk to Tavora!”
“Honestly, I’ve lost track of the time and didn’t realize it would be,” Tempest said, following her into the kitchen. “Is everything all right? Do you need me to stay and help you?”
The woman glanced at the door with a look of concern and replied, “No, dear, you’re a guest. I couldn’t do that to you.” She deposited the mugs she was carrying into the sink and wiped her hands on her apron. “I appreciate the help you’ve already given, though. The clothes you ordered are in and by the back door.”
“Thank you.”
“I assume you’ll be leaving soon?”
“My companion decided he has healed enough and is eager to be on our way,” Tempest answered with a nod. “He could really use a few more days, but I understand he is anxious to return home. I appreciate your help in gathering the supplies we need and arranging transportation. We’ll leave first thing in the morning.”
The woman placed her hand on Tempest’s arm and smiled. “I’m glad I could help. I best be getting back to my customers.”
Tempest watched the woman greet her next customer and moved to the back door. She picked up the packages waiting for her and exited with one last glance around the bustling room.
As Tempest made her way back to Aiden, she felt a sudden sense of unease, as if something was wrong or someone was in danger. She quickened her pace and turned the corner, discovering Tavora surrounded by three men. One of them had grabbed her arm, and she looked to be in distress. Tempest didn’t hesitate to intervene.
“Let her go!”
The man holding Tavora tightened his grip and sneered at Tempest. “This doesn’t concern you, woman.”
“Like Toph it doesn’t!” Tempest answered. She could feel Tavora’s soul crying out for help, and she wasn’t about to stand by and do nothing.
“Tempest, please, just go!” Tavora pleaded, her voice shaking with fear.
