Chapter Seven
Breakfast was short, awkward, and unsatisfactory as the warriors each served themselves from the dried reserves in their packs. Rion’s stomach grumbled even after he finished off the jerky.
They stared at him as he sat in the far corner nearest to the door. Selina offered an easy smile, but the rest—he wasn’t sure friendly would extend to him let alone the other way around.
Selina. Their short conversation had been . . . interesting. He’d never imagined there would be Fae who didn’t believe in the ancient texts. Everyone he’d ever countered followed them.
It gave Rion some hope for the future. Maybe he could have friends after all. Maybe not every female would run at the mere sight of him.
Once they’d finished, Selina unfolded her map and spread it out in the center of the floor. No one bothered with the furniture.
They drew closer to watch as she studied her hand-marked dots.
“We’re here,” she pointed, then slid her finger down the map. “And our first target is here.”
“Fernsworth?” the short female asked, her brow arched. “Weren’t they the first to volunteer warriors two years ago for,” she paused and looked at Rion.
“He lives in the palace,” Selina said. “He knows.” The humans had threatened an invasion that hadn’t gone over well when they tried to cross through the Sirens’ territory. They’d carried all manner of iron weapons, but only one boat successfully made the crossing. Brónach hadn’t shown them an ounce of mercy.
Selina nodded. “A lot can change in two years. According to the logs, several merchants are set to arrive tomorrow and begin preparing for the solstice. We’ll use the foot traffic to hide ourselves among the citizens.”
“We’re all going?” another asked.
Selina shook her head. “Four of us are going. The other nine of you will be infiltrating the smaller villages to gather information.”
“And the city farther south?” the eldest female asked.
“We’ll hit it last. Their involvement is merely suspected.”
“They could be the central hub. They’d have the funds,” the male said.
“We’ll see; remember, intel first.”
Selina assigned their teams. It was easy. Gathering intel was short and to the point. They’d each spend two weeks at their given locations, then meet back at the cabin to exchange information.
They’d enter the villages disguised as merchants or traders.
Rion’s assignment was the only one that differed. He’d expected as much. What he hadn’t expected was her outlandish plan.
***
“Explain to me again why this is necessary?” They strolled down the dirt road leading to Fernsworth with Selina’s arm in his. Grassy plains surrounded them on all sides and a cool summer breeze kept lifting Selina’s hair, hitting him with her intoxicating wildflower scent. It was bad enough that she was on his arm, her body pressed close to his. He swore the gods were testing every ounce of his self-restraint.
They’d left the safe house two days ago. Selina had ordered the male and the short-haired female to accompany them separately. Rion wasn’t sure if they lingered behind or had already entered the city. His guess was that they’d gone ahead, just to be sure Selina wouldn’t run into any trouble.
“Because you need to learn to relax before we walk through those gates. You’re as high-strung as a Fae at their first sparring match. Keep that up and you’ll blow our cover before we even begin.” She wasn’t wrong. His entire body had locked up as soon as she’d looped her arm with his.
Rion swallowed hard, trying not to look at her. “I meant,” he cleared his throat. “Why do we have to go through with it at all?”
He caught her smirk from the corner of his eye. “Because seeing you with a female will throw them off and make them think you have a heart beneath that cold shell of yours.” He wasn’t inclined to agree.
His face burned when she leaned closer, her body brushing against his. “I want them to underestimate you. You’re here as a distraction. With you drawing their focus, the others will be free to look around. Plus, being who you are, the governor will be forced to invite you to his estate.”
“And you plan to snoop around?”
“With you distracting him, yes.” Right, because they were just going to let her wander the halls without an escort.
Rion tried to slow his breathing, but only ended up inhaling more of her scent. It felt like every nerve in his body had ignited all at once. A tool , he reminded himself. He was nothing more than a tool to her.
Rion glanced down at their linked arms and the way Selina’s slender frame moved next to his. She was so close . Closer than any female had ever dared. And she still wasn’t afraid.
Don’t let her manipulate you , Saoirse’s warning rang through him.
He was failing. This female’s entire essence was far worse than any alcohol he’d ever consumed. He was in such deep shit already.
Rion felt her eyes on him, but he kept his head forward, staring at the city gates in the distance. “Does this make you uncomfortable?”
His face burned hotter. “Saoirse warned me about you.”
He saw her brows rise from the corner of his eye. “Your sister? How so?”
“She said you were good at manipulating people.”
Selina laughed, that same singsong sound he’d heard after they’d spared. And damn it if it didn’t do something to his already addled mind. He needed to step away from her. Get some air.
“Well, she wasn’t wrong.” Selina was silent for a long moment. “Is that what you think I’m doing to you?”
“Aren’t you?”
She smirked and shifted her focus back to the city ahead. “Maybe a little.”
He stiffened all over again. “Why?”
She shrugged. “I have the chance to make the most powerful Fae in Brónach uncomfortable and you think I wouldn’t take it?”
Rion clenched his jaw. The guards came into view. Four of them, all standing where they should be. He glanced down at her again. Noted the small smile on her face. He didn’t know why he opened his mouth, why he bothered to say anything at all, but the words tumbled out, making him feel inferior in a way he hadn’t felt since his father had scolded him for dripping paint on a new rug.
“I’ve never had a female . . .” he trailed off, internally kicking himself. He should have just kept his mouth shut.
Selina tilted her head up again, exposing her slender neck. A neck he hadn’t been able to stop staring at since their sparring session. A smile played on her lips despite her effort to keep it hidden. “You’re, what, nineteen, right?” He nodded. “And you’ve never had a girlfriend?”
He couldn’t look at her long. Not with her this close. Rion rolled his eyes instead and waved a hand out to encompass the grass shifting with the breeze. “I’m sure there’s a line of females waiting outside my door back home. I’ll be sure to pick one.”
She jabbed him with her finger and for a moment, Rion’s heart jolted. He half pulled away, expecting to see a knife protruding from his ribs, but—
“Relax, geez.” His heart wouldn’t stop thundering. “Maybe you need to do more group missions, forget that solo life for a while. Get out in the field and you’ll bed a female or two.”
Rion was certain his face had turned another color entirely. He cursed the way his heart skipped and damned the thing for pounding so hard. Rion tried clearing his throat and prayed his voice wouldn’t betray him. “I suppose you’ve bedded your share of males?” A flash of anger rose in him and she laughed, that beautiful voice carrying over the vast open field.
Rion was certain it wasn’t part of her f a? ade as she said, “Males are always so territorial.” He bit the inside of his cheek. Selina continued. “Males, a female or two just to experiment. I’ve had my share of lovers, but none worth introducing to my family.”
“Why not?”
She scoffed. “Because my uncle has certain . . . expectations.” Not father. She wrinkled her nose. “He’s too protective, as most males are, and won’t approve of a match that is anything below his standards.”
“I’ll be sure to be on my best behavior then.”
Selina smirked. “If we succeed and you make a good show of it, perhaps I’ll put in a good word to some females back home.” She playfully nudged him with her shoulder. “Maybe land you a real date.”
A date. With a female. The thought was absurd. Anyone with him would just be another target for assassins. He was sure that would be a good conversation starter.
But no matter how ridiculous it sounded, the image of him walking the streets of Nàdair with a beautiful female at his side sounded . . . nice. To take her to dinner. Talk to her about plant life and possibly even chess if she was interested. To open doors for her. Treat her. Please her.
A fantasy. But a nice one nonetheless.
He glanced down at Selina and found her smiling back. She had her arm looped through his, her hand resting lightly against his bare forearm. The feel of her calloused palm had his heart racing all over again. Maybe, just maybe, he would be permitted something good for a change.
The only problem was that he didn’t want another female. He was happy with this. With her. “I’ll make sure my acting is sublime.”
The white pillars of the city gates reflected the sun. Intricately carved vines raced up the marble columns, a structure made to resemble the palace halls in Nàdair.
The sentries stationed at the gate appeared bored as they leaned against those very pillars, passing cards between one another. Their swords were sheathed and a few bottles rested against the marble.
It took far too long for one of them to look up, but when the male at the far end cared to glance their way, he scrambled to his feet, knocking over the bottle that had been resting against his knee. The contents spilled onto his companion’s boot and the male cursed at his friend before following his gaze.
At Selina’s request, Rion already had his sand up, billowing around them both in a display of power. He kept the grains from touching her though, just in case she didn’t welcome the feel of his magic.
The first guard kicked a third who was still kneeling in the dirt with a pair of dice in his hand. The male gave his companion a vulgar gesture, then followed his eyes and jerked upright. He swayed a bit on his feet and Rion noted the bottle he tried to scoot out of sight with one foot.
“M-my Lord,” the first said, his voice shaking. The male swallowed hard as Rion surveyed them, then their game, and finally the liquor that littered the ground. Far too many bottles for a single day. No wonder this place was on Selina’s list. It would be easy for a rebel faction to infiltrate it. They probably let anyone through the gates without question, or were paid to look the other way.
If he’d been here for any other reason, Rion would have reprimanded them, likely fired them, and assigned new guards. But he wasn’t here for that today.
“At ease,” Rion said, keeping his voice as calm as he could manage. Something in him demanded he protect the female at his side, even if he knew she could protect herself. “I’m here on pleasure.” None of them relaxed. Rion eyed the bottles again and they shifted nervously. “I trust I’ll not be disrupted by,” he searched for the word, “unnecessary disturbances during my visit?”
The first male nodded again. He seemed to be the only one capable of doing anything. “You have our word.” He bowed at the waist and after a moment of hesitation—or perhaps a delay in their ability to think clearly—the others did the same.
Rion forced a smile. “Good.” He made a show of looking Selina over and she offered him a smile in return. It wasn’t entirely for show when Rion’s gaze traveled to her lips, then the alluring curve of her throat before he said, “Enjoy the rest of your day then.”
Rion forced himself to walk through the gates at a leisurely pace. Selina rested her head against his shoulder and he tried to keep his heart steady. The guards said nothing, but he could feel their stares burning into his back until they were out of earshot.
“I think you’ve undersold yourself,” she whispered. “You’re quite the actor.” He didn’t mention that some things weren’t entirely an act.
They ambled down the busy street and Rion watched as Fae scrambled from his presence. Word of his arrival would spread quickly, which was what Selina hoped for. She wanted the governor to call on them. The male was first on her long list of suspects.
Fingers pointed and a few couples walked down side streets to avoid him. He clenched his jaw when they stared at Selina then whispered about the way she held him.
A warrior reached for his weapon on their left. Rion pinned him with a stare and the male froze, confusion written all over his face.
Selina patted Rion’s arm. “Now, now, we’re here for a bit of fun, remember?” She said it loud enough for those in the immediate vicinity to hear. As if she were the only one in the world who could quell the monster in their midst.
Another male reached for a weapon. Two more flinched. Rion braced himself, ready to protect Selina at any cost, but then the female was in front of him, staring into his eyes with a sweet, disarming smile. Rion’s breath hitched. He was paralyzed. Frozen in time and space as she reached up and wrapped her arms around his neck.
His heart didn’t know how to function anymore as she stared at him as if he were the only one who existed. Her amber eyes took him prisoner and he gladly let her hold the chains.
Then she kissed him.
Her lips were softer than he ever imagined. He didn’t know what to do with his hands. His mouth. His breath. His body.
Her lips moved against his and he moved with her, wrapping his arms tentatively around her waist. He had no idea what she’d permit, where she drew the line.
She tasted like vanilla and sin and horrible decisions. All things he’d gladly live with for the rest of eternity.
She pulled away too soon, leaving him reeling. She offered a gentle smile and the way her face lit up was enough to challenge the sun in its glory.
Her arms slid down his chest, then she took his hand and laced her fingers between his. His body was on fire, cheeks just as flushed as hers. He knew he should turn his attention back to the Fae in the vicinity. He should access them for danger, but he couldn’t drag his gaze away from her.
Selina ducked her head, as if suddenly bashful and all but dragged the abomination of Brónach through the streets like a love-sick teenager.
A breeze swept between the buildings, clearing his senses enough to take in the shocked faces surrounding them. The Fae who’d been reaching for their weapons now stood gaping at the pair. Those who’d been ready to flee had frozen in place, too stunned to move.
What she’d done—he knew the ruse. Knew what it could mean. But to have her touch him physically. To do so without revulsion . . .
He still tasted her on his tongue, still felt the slight gasp she’d loosed when he’d kissed her back. The shadow of her touch still caressed his neck and his heart wouldn’t stop pounding.
An act, his mind kept repeating, but his heart wasn’t listening. It was drugged, beyond reason or rational thought.
They continued down the street, Selina guiding his every step. Rion wanted to say something, but his tongue was too heavy, his thoughts jumbled. He didn’t even realize where they were going until Selina pushed open the door to an inn.
Another smile and she released his hand and headed for the counter. Rion took the time to collect himself. He let the scents of alcohol and polished tables distract him from the female.
Only a handful of patrons occupied the space but they were too focused on their drinks to bother looking up.
Rion wondered if Selina had visited the city before and already planned to use this particular inn. With its low lighting and assorted tables, it was a perfect meeting place to exchange information with her comrades. Rion imagined her sneaking down in the dead of night when the other guests were too drunk to notice.
He heard his name and turned in time to see Selina pointing. The owner fumbled his cup at the sight of Rion’s magic. Magic that was still dancing to the frantic beat of his heart.
Rion swore he heard Selina whisper something about Rion waking up grumpy if he slept on a poor bed. He rolled his eyes.
She exchanged coins for a key and minutes later, Selina was half skipping toward him, twirling the set on one finger. “All set,” she declared, as if her mind weren’t reeling whatsoever from what had occurred minutes ago.
“Glad my reputation could be useful.” He couldn’t look her in the eye.
She shrugged. “Can’t blame a female for wanting a decent bed to sleep in.”
Fear burned his nose and Rion looked behind Selina to find two males staring at them with wide eyes. He’d probably just ruined their buzz.
He followed her up the creaking stairs to the second floor like a creature on a leash. Only, instead of a tether, she controlled him with the sway of her hips and the way she batted her lashes.
She could control him with a lot less if she wished. He was willing to bet she knew it, too.
Doors stretched down a short hall way. Selina turned to one on their right and placed the heavy key into the lock. The wooden door swung open to reveal a mid-size room that was likely considered luxurious by the inn’s standards.
A cold fireplace stood off to the left. The caretakers had already piled wood off to the side. More than enough to get through a few nights if they needed. Judging from the heat in the room, the flames wouldn’t be necessary for anything other than boiling water.
Light sheets were neatly tucked along the bed and thick furs rugs surrounded the bedframe. Rion had marked the bathroom at the end of the hall but was glad to find one within the room.
“Take off your shoes,” Selina demanded. “I don’t want the furs ruined.” Rion closed the door behind him, then eyed a stain already marring the rugs. They weren’t new by any means. He could have argued, but decided against it and tugged off his boots.
Selina did the same, then marched straight for the bathroom.
“What are you doing?”
She already had her socks off and in hand before turning to him. Selina eyed the bathroom door as if to state the obvious. “Just because we’re posing as travelers doesn’t mean I have to smell like one. I’m taking a shower, dressing in something presentable, then heading to the market.”
Rion crossed his arms. “And what am I supposed to do in the meantime?”
A feline smile spread across her face. “You could always join me.” His heart stopped then she laughed and his face heated. “Do whatever you like, but meet me in the market in two hours.” She shut the door before he could reply. The water switched on and Rion tried not to imagine her removing her clothes. He definitely wasn’t thinking about how her body had felt pressed against his own.
Rion stormed from the room. He need air. She hadn’t even brought up the kiss, which meant it was just part of the ruse. Of course it was. She’d told him the whole thing was just an act. He inwardly kicked himself. They were on a mission and despite the awkward things this particular mission entailed, he needed to maintain an air of professionalism.
Rion bit the inside of his cheek so hard he tasted blood. Gods, why was she so . . . he’d never had a female . . . play with him the way she did. Hell, he’d never had anyone play with him or toy with his emotions as if he were anyone else in the world.
It was . . . refreshing. And despite the feelings coursing through his body, Rion wasn’t sure he ever wanted it to stop.
He breathed in the fresh air of the bustling street and let his thoughts clear. He’d talk to her later. Or maybe they’d pretend it never happened. He could do that, he supposed.
Rion observed the Fae and half-breeds walking the streets. They regarded him oddly now, as if they didn’t quite know what to do with him after Selina’s very public display. A few had bags in their hands. He wondered if they were traveling for the solstice or fleeing the city due to his presence.
Rion marched straight for the governor’s estate. He’d visited a time or two with Saoirse while on the hunt for their mother. The male who ran the city wasn’t exactly what Rion would call a warrior. Not anymore, at least. All those in Brónach were required to undergo rigorous training, but once a Fae graduated from the academy, it was up to them to keep up on that training.
The governor worried more about his social standing and political image than his swordplay. He briefly wondered how Selina planned to handle the male. Certainly not with physical threats if she wanted to keep their mission a secret. Hopefully she didn’t plan to deal with him in another physical manner.
A growl escaped his throat at the thought of another’s male’s hands anywhere near her. Two civilians jumped and fled down a side alley.
Rion took a breath and made a sad attempt at burying his instincts. A mission, he reminded himself. Selina wasn’t his and she might never want to be. If she needed to do certain things to ensure their success, then he couldn’t let himself interfere. It wasn’t his business.
But he wanted it to be. Rion wondered, not for the first time, if he’d ever shake the teachings of the ancient text. If a female might one day look at him the way Selina pretended to.
The buildings grew larger, some towering to a third story with long flowering vines draping from the balconies to create a blanket of mixed colors and pleasant aromas.
It was always jarring to visit another city. While Nàdair had plenty of regular buildings and storefronts, the citizens mostly lived within the trees, opting to warp them as they saw fit to accommodate their families. The elders claimed it kept them close to their heritage. According to them, living apart from nature and the Fairy Folk risked the Fae forgetting where they came from. Some older Fae even sneered at those who lived in handmade structures rather than utilizing the trees.
The road widened then split, circling around the governor’s estate and the large expanse of land surrounding it. The manor itself was only two stories, thank the gods for that, but it stretched wide. Rion counted the windows, grimacing at the number of rooms they might have to search.
A pair of guards stood at the front gate, looking ready to doze in the warm sun. At least they’d be easy enough to subdue. The entire yard was surrounded by a metal fence with easily climbable vines weaving between the posts. Fountains and red brick led up to the front door and wrapped around the perimeter. A pristine cobblestone walkway stretched into a garden that smelled of roses and peonies.
He snorted at the immaculate lawn. He doubted anyone was even allowed to walk on it. Such a waste. They could have at least planted a few trees to add some shade and color.
Rion prowled the perimeter. Some noticed his presence, mostly those working in the garden, but they wisely avoided his stare and busied themselves elsewhere. One retreated inside the manor, no doubt to report his presence to appointed officials. Rion estimated he had about ten minutes before someone came out to greet him.
He found two more guards at the rear entrance, but none prowled the yard. If they held secrets about a rebel faction, they weren’t doing much to protect them.
Rion heard the familiar clank of chains and glanced toward the garden only to find a slave staring at him. She quickly looked away. He surveyed her clean clothes and full figure. At least they seemed to be treating them fairly here, which was more than he could say of some nobles.
Most deemed the half-breeds so below their station, they weren’t worthy of new clothes or even daily meals, but there were those among the higher circles who frowned upon having a dirty creature touching their things. Let alone having to stare at them day in and day out. Their care was purely a selfish motivation. One he could hardly stomach.
Rion clenched his jaw. Saoirse had offered him a slave once. Just someone to sort and tend to his personal things. He’d never been angry with his sister before, but he’d come close to snapping that day. She’d taken the slave for herself and never offered another.
He didn’t need someone following him around. Those who worked in the palace were bad enough.
Footsteps had Rion turning to find a well-dressed Fae male approaching from behind. The male paused several feet away, almost too far to warrant a normal conversation, and promptly bowed at the waist. “My Lord.” He rose and struggled to hold Rion’s gaze. “We didn’t expect your arrival.” The male’s voice trembled and the fear radiating from him had Rion’s stomach turning. “Please allow us to accommodate—”
“That’s not necessary,” Rion interrupted before the male could list a dozen inns that might suit him. The male wrung his hands together. Sweat beaded on his forehead.
Rion let his gaze drift toward the pair of slaves waiting before the gate. A cart, just large enough to accommodate a single person, stood behind them. No horses, of course; that was what the slaves were for.
He clenched his jaw. He didn’t care about their histories. Seeing the half-breeds treated as little more than animals boiled the blood in his veins.
“I didn’t realize I was required to announce my arrival.” His voice came out rougher than he’d intended. The male flinched.
“No, of course you don’t, My Lord. I only meant that we could have prepared—”
“At ease. I’m not here on business.”
The male didn’t seem to know what to do with that. He opened his mouth, closed it, then said, “Oh.” It took him a moment to collect himself, likely to think through why Rion, The Demon, would be standing in front of the governor’s manor if he wasn’t here to address their ledgers. “Would you like me to arrange a meeting?”
A smile tugged at Rion’s lips. Selina would be thrilled. “If it doesn’t cause too much trouble.”
“Of course not,” the male beamed, his demeanor relaxing by the second. Maybe he hoped to be rewarded in some way for the arrangement. Or maybe he was just happy to avoid Rion’s wrath. What had Selina claimed again? That others believed he drank the blood of his enemies? He shivered at the thought. He didn’t even like his meat rare.
“We actually have a banquet tomorrow evening to celebrate a new trading partnership with Whiteridge.” Rion blinked at the mention of the southern city. “Of course, if you prefer a more private meeting, then I can arrange that as well. The governor would be more than happy to accommodate whatever—”
“The banquet will suffice,” he interrupted again. Selina had dismissed Whiteridge’s involvement, but if the two cities were connected in a trade agreement, then perhaps they were more involved than previously assumed. Were both cities plotting against Nàdair?
Relations with Whiteridge had always been strained. Just a few years ago, he’d accompanied Saoirse on an assignment there. It had been one of the most intense missions he’d ever been on. It was also where they’d first discovered the poison or a variation of it. Despite Selina dismissing them, it wouldn’t surprise Rion in the slightest if they were at the center of everything.
“I’ll be bringing a guest,” Rion said.
The male’s eyes widened. “Is our Lady Saoirse with you?” He glanced behind Rion as if he might spot her wandering around.
“No, she’s a . . . personal friend of mine.” Rion wondered for a moment if the words would come out as a lie. They didn’t.
The male bowed. “Any guest of yours is a guest of ours.”
“Good. What time shall we arrive?”
“We’re serving appetizers and wine at five. Dinner is scheduled for six.”
Rion nodded and the male bowed again. “Is there anything else I can do for you, My Lord?”
Rion’s gaze returned to the manor. He noted the faces peering through the curtains. They ducked away when he caught them staring.
“You’re dismissed.”
Another bow. A lingering stare, then the male was gone, rushing away as fast as he could without running.
Rion smirked. Selina would be pleased. He hoped. Everything was already lining up and it was only day one.
After circling the property a final time just to rile them up a bit, Rion turned toward the market. The hot sun had risen high and was beating down on his already tanned skin.
He’d spent the beginning of summer outside every day, learning to perfect the magic that still tried to slip from his control. He had a far better grasp on it than he had five years ago, but if someone provoked him too much, it would roar to life of its own volition.
He still practiced day in and day out, willing the magic to yield to him completely. He didn’t need to unintentionally kill someone again.
Caol’s death still . . . bothered him. It didn’t matter that Caol had tried to kill him first, Rion hadn’t wanted the male dead. It was an unfortunate incident that would haunt him for the rest of his life.
“You shouldn’t look so serious,” a familiar voice drawled. “You’ll scare everyone off.” Rion turned to find Selina, a much different Selina, staring at him with a hand braced on her hip.
In place of the black clothes, she’d changed into a pale blue shirt that dipped in the front, revealing far too much skin. A dark pair of loose shorts showed off the muscles of her tanned legs.
The memory of the kiss returned two-fold. He imagined running his hands up and down her thighs. Wondered what it might feel like to have them wrapped around his waist.
She’d left her hair down, the strands still slightly damp from her shower. Her eyes were alight with amusement as his gaze tracked up and down her form.
Selina cocked a teasing smile and tapped the side of her face. “You have a bit of drool.”
Rion snapped his mouth shut and turned away, suddenly interested in a very plain loose stone jutting out of the path. They should fix it. He should tell the governor when they visited. Someone could trip.
“You aren’t armed,” he said, trying anything to distract himself.
Selina sauntered closer and Rion had to resist stepping away as she wrapped her hands around his arm and pulled him close. Gods, she smelled like heaven.
“Why would I bring weapons when we’re simply going for a stroll through this beautiful city? Besides,” she nudged him. “I have a big bad Fae male to fight all my battles for me.”
Right, their mask. The mask that felt all too real because his stupid instincts wouldn’t stop roaring at him.
At least two dozen eyes watched the couple as they wandered into the main hub of the market. Patrons and shopkeepers alike paused mid conversation, many trying to decide whether to finish their transactions or outright flee.
Selina approached the first vendor that caught her eye and the male running it twisted his hands nervously, glancing between her and Rion as Selina scanned the jewelry laid across his table.
He watched Selina run her fingers over various pieces. Beautiful pieces. Many were items his mother would have likely worn.
“Is there something the miss finds to her liking?” The vendor’s voice shook and the fear leaking from him burned Rion’s nose. He’d always hated the smell.
Rion turned his attention to the shadowed corners and the lowlifes waiting to take advantage of unsuspecting guests. If it weren’t for his presence, Selina would have been a prime target. Her casual dress made her look like a tourist and the lack of weapons only amplified the ruse of her innocent nature.
For the first time, Rion was seeing a picture of exactly how she worked. And how well she wore her disguise.
Too well.
She picked up a golden necklace with red jewels inlaid throughout and lifted it toward the sun. Rion scanned her again. Surely she wouldn’t seriously leave herself vulnerable. Not when Alec and Saoirse claimed she was one of the best commanders in Nàdair.
A shift of her hip had Rion looking lower. She stood with her legs just a little wider than usual. Against her inner thigh then but given how short her shorts were meant the blade would be high.
He stopped thinking about it. Tried to stop thinking about her altogether and failed miserably.
Selina carefully set the beautiful necklace back on the small cushion. “What do you have that would match his eyes?”
The shopkeeper’s mouth gaped, mirroring Rion’s own expression. But reluctantly, as if it might cost the merchant his life, the male shifted his gaze to Rion and met his eyes. Something not many dared to do. Fear shone there and amplified when Selina sauntered over to Rion, her hips purposefully swaying.
She linked her arm with his, leaned close, and Rion forced himself to look at her. “I love his eyes. They carry so much depth, wouldn’t you agree?” She turned back to the shop owner and the male nodded, his expression changing from a fearful Fae to an artist inspecting his canvas. Rion refused to move, no matter how much his body demanded it. He didn’t like being the center of attention. Not like this. He’d never had another survey him so . . . intently.
The male glanced at the items laid out on his table, then moved behind it and pulled out a chest full of tiny drawers. He surveyed them, opened a few, then his eyes lit up in triumph.
The male presented Selina with a pair of small gemstones barely as big as the tip of Rion’s smallest finger. “Will these do?”
Selina stepped closer to inspect the stones and Rion sagged with relief. He couldn’t look away, however, when her eyes lit up, truly lit up in a way that he was sure had nothing to do with their assignment.
“These are—” Words seemed to fail her.
“You won’t find another pair like them. I traded with a male on the northern continent. He claimed the gemstone is rare, even in their mountain ranges.”
“You went to the human lands?” Rion said, a bit of skepticism in his voice. Fae couldn’t lie, but setting foot on human lands was largely unheard of. Especially with their history with the Fae.
The male nodded, his fear sparking anew. “I just returned a few months ago. It was . . . quite a journey.” Rion would say so, considering a Fae had to travel to the port city of Pádraigín, then cross the sea, which, he’d been told, was a two-week journey in itself.
“What can you make them into?” Selina asked, not at all interested in the male’s story about how he’d acquired them.
The male studied Selina and Rion had to resist the urge to growl to indicate the female was taken. A perfect part of their ruse, sure, but far too real. He was certain Selina would notice.
“Would you like a pair of earrings?”
She beamed. “That would be lovely.”
It occurred to Rion that he hadn’t informed Selina about the invite to the governor’s party. He asked, “Could you have them finished before tomorrow night?” Selina cast him a questioning glance. “We’ve been invited to a banquet,” he said by way of explanation.
Selina clasped her hands, but the surprise on her face was real. “Oh, you didn’t tell me.” She turned back to the merchant. “You’ll have to forgive him, my companion doesn’t seem to understand that artistry takes time. I understand if—”
“They’ll be done before sunrise.” The male puffed out his chest as if he’d just been challenged. “You shall wear your gems at the event even if I have to be up all night.”
Selina gave him an easy smile. “I look forward to it.”
The male bowed his head. “Of course, My Lady.” Silence stretched for a long moment, then Selina seemed to catch on to the male glancing at her purse.
“Oh, right, I’m sorry.” She leaned close to the male, an action that had Rion wanting to protest, but whatever she whispered to him had the male’s mouth gaping.
“Truly?”
Selina held a finger up to her lips and winked. “It’ll be our little secret.”
He bowed again. “Of course, My Lady.” She took Rion’s arm once again and pulled him away from the stall, moving toward the next.
Rion didn’t wait for them to be out of earshot before he asked, “What was that about?” Surely the male wouldn’t give her something so expensive in exchange for her . . . attention, but—
Selina lowered her voice to a whisper. “Just using a family name to my advantage.”
“Mine?”
She balked. “ Mine . You’re not the only one with money, you know.”
Right. He glanced back at the male who was already bent over his table. “You probably just promised him an entire month’s wages.”
“More like six. Hopefully he spends it well.”
“And your . . . uncle,” he’d almost said father, “is okay with spending that kind of money on jewelry?”
She shrugged. “He likes to dote on his niece.”
Rion smirked, placing a hand over hers when a pair of males looked too close. They turned away. “So you’re protected and spoiled.”
“I am not spoiled. I’m immaculately cared for. He likes it when I pick out my own gifts. Says it saves him the trouble.”
They moved on to another stall and Rion watched Selina purchase a gold necklace. At the next she picked out a matching bracelet.
The female before him was supposed to be a warrior and he was supposed to be the cursed Lord of Brónach, yet in this square, walking arm in arm, he felt . . . normal. He wondered how it would feel to have her walking with him in Nàdair. Would everyone glare forever or would they eventually accept his presence?
Selina disappeared into a clothing tent, claiming she needed to try on a few things. He waited outside, still watching the shadows. Thankfully, Rion wasn’t forced to carry her trinkets. She paid someone to carry them back to the inn.
If her intention was to draw attention, she’d certainly done a fine job of it. Every merchant in the square now eyed her as if she could pay an entire year’s wages with one purchase. She probably could, given what he’d already seen. Or her uncle could, at least.
Rion wondered if Saoirse knew more about her family. Likely so. It would be yet another question he’d have for his sister, once she calmed down, of course. He was sure Saoirse would have a thing or two to say about him showing interest in the female.
Selina emerged from the tent and they continued through the marketplace. She purchased a few items he deemed useful, like a new set of throwing knives. And went unnecessarily extravagant for other items, like fancy soaps and shampoos. Apparently the inn’s weren’t good enough.
After what seemed like hours, the pair made their way back to the inn. The owner greeted Selina by the door and claimed all her belongings had been placed just inside the room. Selina deposited a few extra coins into the male’s hand.
He bowed and asked Selina to let him know if she needed anything else. Rion wasn’t even sure he existed anymore. He arched a brow. Maybe he should have just resorted to buying people’s favor from the beginning. He wondered if extra coins might have earned him a few less attempts on his life.
The Fae were surprisingly . . . kind with Selina around. Maybe they thought she held him in check. He wasn’t sure he minded. Sure, they were still cautious, but with their attention on her—or rather, her purse—he was nothing more than a dark shadow. He was . . . free.
Selina turned on him as soon as the room door shut. “Spill it. What banquet?”
Rion gave her a knowing smirk. “There’s an event at the governor’s house to celebrate a trade deal they made between themselves and Whiteridge.”
She raised a brow. “That’s—I left you alone for less than an hour. How did you secure an invite?”
Rion shrugged. “Family name and all.”
She pursed her lips. “Tomorrow?”
“Dinner is served at six.” He kicked off his boots by the door. “Don’t worry, I didn’t do anything to draw attention. I was just scouting the perimeter and one of the staff saw me.”
“And he just . . . invited you?”
“You sound skeptical.”
“Don’t people generally try to, you know,” she pulled a finger across her throat.
“Thanks for the reminder.”
She braced her hands on her hips. “Well, how do we know they don’t plan to kill us?”
Rion shrugged. “We don’t.”
“Great.” She blew out a breath. “I guess I’ll have to hide a few more weapons on me. I might have to revisit the tailor to see what she can do.” She huffed again. “Do you know how difficult it is to carry weapons in a dress?”
“So don’t wear one.”
Selina balked. “You need to work on your expectations if I’m going to introduce you to females.”
“We’re on a mission. It’s an entirely different situation.” He had a sister. He knew how much some females liked to dress up.
“Yes, a mission where I’m supposed to be enjoying a summer retreat with my new boyfriend.” She said it so casually, but Rion’s face heated all over again. “If I walk in there dressed like a warrior, they’ll get suspicious.”
“Maybe they’d assume I prefer a warrior over a noble.”
“Do you?”
The question jarred him enough that he stopped counting his knives and looked at her. Her face was wholly serious.
“I—I don’t know. Maybe.”
A smirk. “I’m just teasing. Regardless of your personal preferences, they need to see me as a noble woman who needs a Fae male protecting her. It will give me certain . . . privileges.”
“Such as?”
She pulled one of the boxes toward herself and opened the lid. “The chance to sneak off and search a room or two. If I present myself as having a fraction of intelligence, they wouldn’t let me out of their sight.”
“If you’re gathering information, what will the others be doing?” He hadn’t forgotten about her comrades. He’d been searching for them in the marketplace, but they’d kept their distance.
“They have their orders. We’ll exchange basic information tonight and go from there.”
Rion watched her pull out the new knife set. She loosened the belts and fitted them to her thighs. The way her fingers glided over the buckles distracted him long enough that Selina asked, “Anything else?”
He made to turn. Leave it alone , he chided himself. But he couldn’t. “Earlier,” he started. She let the buckles fall loose. “Never mind.”
“Don’t never mind me, what?”
“When we first entered the city . . .” Gods, why was it so hard to form words?
She stared at her weapons now. “The kiss?” He was silent as she fiddled with the straps again. “Sorry. They looked as if they were going to maw you right there in the middle of the street. It was the only thing I could think of that might distract them.”
“Right.” He should have just let it go.
She peered up and Rion turned away. “It was your first, wasn’t it?”
“It doesn’t matter.”
“I—”
“I need to shower.” He entered the small bathroom and quickly locked the door behind him. Rion leaned back against it and steadied himself. Gods, what the hell was wrong with him? What was this female doing to him?
Pitiful.
They were on an assignment and everything she did was just part of an act.
But gods, she did it so damn well. That was the whole problem. He was clinging to every word, every brush of her body and hands.
Rion shoved his feelings down and pushed off from the wall before stripping out of his dirty clothes. At least his reactions added to their ruse. He’d let those stay genuine. Selina was right. Having her at his side was the perfect distraction.
He could play along, perhaps even let himself believe it. Just a bit.
Rion turned on the water and let it reach near scalding temperatures. He could do this. He could pretend just as well as she did.