Olwen squeezed his eyes shut and prayed he was being a lunatic and this was all a big misunderstanding. While he wanted Dahlia to pay for what she had done, he knew when feelings were involved, things got messy. Neve thought he wanted his wife to suffer but giving them what they deserved when you loved them was something else altogether.
“That was not... I didn’t mean.” Thevallessighed, rubbing her forehead beneath her hood. “I’m sorry, Felix.”
Felix. So, the giant had a name.
“I know humans are more reserved in their public affections than giants, so I assumed...” Felix bowed stiffly. “My apologies.”
“Nooooo,” Holly said, stepping close to take his hands in her own.
He eyed short black nails and soft blue skin. All proof that she was a halfling. And yet...
Olwen scowled at himself.
Just go back to camp.
But he did not. Hisqovvingfeet were rooted to the ground, watching the lovers’ quarrel like a voyeur. There was something seriously wrong with him.
Felix straightened from his bow. “What is it?”
Holly sighed. “I’m not looking for a companion right now.”
“I can be a patient male.”
If Olwen had human eyes, he would have rolled them. Overeager much?
“You misunderstand me. I am not at liberty to marry.”
Now, that was interesting.Why, little Holly, why? Because you’re the bloody queen?
Felix frowned at her. “I was told you were a widow?”
The halfling released his hands to curl them into her cloak and then stomped her feet to keep them warm. “I am, but my marriage broke me. I won’t... I can’t give someone power over me like that again. Ever.”
Her words punched Olwen in the gut. He could taste her pain and fear in the slight breeze. It wrapped around one of his old wounds and squeezed. He closed his eyes and tried to control his breathing as the berserker stirred again. As it always did when it sensed a threat—physical or emotional.
Felix nodded slowly. “I understand.”
“I hope you know that I did not consciously lead you on.”
The giant chuckled. “You did no such thing,valles. I’ve seen women play with men’s feelings over the years. I know what it looks like. Any hope I harbored was because of my own feelings.” He paused. “Would it be possible to be friends? This is not my home, and I find myself feeling out of sorts, but I sense a kindred spirit with you.”
“I would like that, Felix,” Holly said, a smile in her voice.
“Would you still like me to walk you home?” Felix asked softly.
“I’m close. I’ll be okay.”
“You’re sure?” he pressed gently.
Olwen had to give it to thevallos. He was honorable.
“The whole town is crawling with warriors. I’ll be safe.” Something in the tone of her voice was off. Like she didn’t quite believe her own words.
Interesting.
“Then I will leave you here.” Felix took Holly’s hand and gave it a chaste kiss. “Goodnight.”
“Goodnight.”
