Chapter 10 #2
As the sun began its descent, I decided it was time to head home. Adalia hugged me so tight I thought my ribs might crack. “Next time, you better stay longer,” she said, pulling back with a mock glare. “And don’t come looking like a wind-starved scarecrow.”
I chuckled, squeezing her shoulder. “Better bring me some more of those blueberry muffins then.”
Matthias clapped me on the back and walked me to the edge of the courtyard, Bones trotting silently beside him. “If you hear anymore about Oscuro, you’ll let me know, yeah?”
“Of course, though I’m sure it’s nothing to be concerned about, ” I replied, offering him a smile.
He grinned. “Light guide you, brother.”
With one last nod, I stepped back and let the wind rush through me. “And keep you.”
My wings unfurled, red and sharp against the pale morning light. The gravel cracked faintly under my boots as I pushed off, the wind catching beneath me.
The outskirts of Lucius stretched below, rows and rows of aspen and pine trees reaching towards the west, while the ocean lay to the south in the distance.
I glanced once over my shoulder. Adalia stood with her hands on her hips, and Matthias had an arm slung casually around her shoulders. Bones barked once, as if in farewell.
Then I rose higher, letting the wind guide me home.
~~~~~
I arrived just before sundown, and despite the visit, I still felt torn. I could go to The Grey and check on Sapphire but not reveal myself, or I could catch up with Blue and River. Though, after the last conversation I’d had with Sapphire, it was pretty clear she didn’t want me around.
Perhaps Matthias was right, it was best to give her some space for a few days.
With that in mind, I freshened up, changing into black trousers, a white button-up shirt tucked in at the waist, and dark, shiny leather boots. A fun, relaxed evening was probably all I needed to clear my head.
River had mentioned the last time I saw him that he was going to our favourite bar tonight. I didn’t bother checking in with him. He’d either be there or he wouldn’t, and I’d enjoy myself anyway.
The sky was a dark expanse of glittering stars when I left the house. The winds were cool against my skin as I soared through the heavens. I could have walked, but I needed to be alone. Too many friendly Lightners adorned the streets, heading out to dinner or socialising with others.
It was quieter up here, which gave me time to think . . . about her.
There was one question that I kept asking myself. One I couldn’t shake.
Why her?
She wasn't warm. She wasn’t easy. She didn’t smile a real smile unless she meant it, and when she spoke, it was usually to push me away.
But I’d seen her give bread to starving children with nothing in her own pockets.
I’d seen the way she walked through the marketplace, back straight, head held high despite the low voices of the petty women who didn’t have the stomach to voice their thoughts to her face.
Never did she bite back or give them the satisfaction of her gaze. That kind of strength—quiet, worn, steady—it clung to her like a second skin.
My thoughts never stopped churning, even when I landed outside the Dancing Vineyard.
Golden light spilled onto the street, inviting passersby inside with its warmth.
A cacophony of sound rang through the air.
Fiddles, tambourines and pianos mixed with the joyful hum of Lightner laughter and conversation.
I pushed the door open and stepped inside. As soon as I did, all my cares seemed to melt away. Clusters of tables sprinkled around the edges of the room, most filled to the brim with bodies that drank golden ale, laughed and sang. It was a glorious sight to see.
So different from that of the Silver Finch. At the Dancing Vineyard, women and men alike were treated with respect and everyone was here just to have a good time. The only exchange of coins was for another round of drinks.
River sat at the bar, with Blue beside him. They both turned my way, smiles breaking across their daft faces.
Yes, this was a good idea.
My feet carried me across the room, but the music drowned out any sound they made. I clapped both men on the back when I reached the bar.
“About time you showed your ugly face around here,” River shouted above the tavern’s hum.
I nodded towards the barkeeper. I’d been a long time regular, so he knew my order. “I kept away so you had a chance with the ladies.” I winked at River.
Blue threw his head back with a laugh, nearly spilling his drink. “None of you stand a chance while I’m around.”
I grunted, managing half a smirk. “You’d be surprised.”
He waved over the barkeep and ordered all three of us a second round of something strong and sweet. When the glass hit the table, I took a long sip, letting the burn trail down my throat like firelight. Still, my shoulders wouldn’t drop.
Across the room, people twirled and stomped, skirts flashing, boots thudding to the fiddle’s quick beat. The music begged to pull you in, to make you forget. But my body wouldn’t loosen. Not fully.
River’s hazel eyes met mine behind Blue’s back. “Whatever is bothering you Nik, let it go and let’s have some fun.”
He was right. I was allowed to enjoy myself for one night. Dragging a deep breath into my lungs, I plastered on a grin. Tonight all thoughts of Sapphire would be put to the back of my mind. I’d check in on her in a few days.
With a drink in hand, I leaned against the bar, surveying the boisterous scene before me. A pair of bright amber eyes locked with mine from across the room.
Dark curls bouncing, a wine-coloured dress against tawny skin. She smiled as she walked straight towards me, all confidence and curiosity. The scent of caramel wrapped around me in a warm, sweet embrace as she reached my side.
She grinned. “You gonna stand there brooding all night, or will you dance with me?”
I blinked, caught off guard by the directness. For a heartbeat, I hesitated.
She tilted her head, teasing. “You look like you could use a good spin.”
I cracked a reluctant smile, offering my hand. “Alright. Just one.”
She grinned wider and tugged me towards the dance floor as the music soared, and for a few hours I lost myself to good food and even better company.