The situation with Col wasn’t private for me though; I’d even flirted with him in front of Amalee and Micah. My actions were reckless considering I’d be returning home in just a couple of weeks. And if he wasn’t even willing to talk about me with his friends … I should’ve shown the same restraint.
“It’s not like that.” I waved a dismissive hand.
The bartender strode back to us, placed one bowl of soup in front of Sky and slid the other across the bar at me, letting the broth slosh over the sides. Sky snarled in his direction.
“I don’t get it.” I mopped up the spilled liquid with a napkin. “What’ve I done to pisshimoff?”
“It’s not about what you have or haven’t done—it’s about what Col means to everyone here. And what they presume you mean to him. But it’s also that you’re from Rivale.”
“They don’t even know me.” I let the warmth of the soup coat my throat as it slid down to my belly. The flavor was dull and the portion wasn’t huge, but it would keep my stomach from rumbling until dinner.
“Exactly! Between seeing you in town and at the celebration, a lot of assumptions have been made. But they’re just that. None of it is based on facts.”
I nodded.
“He’s beloved.” Sky tore off a chunk of bread. “Most are too young to remember the reign of his grandparents, but the memories of his father’s rule are etched in their minds.” Sky shrugged. “Col may not see it this way, but he single-handedly saved Kuroden.”
“How?”
The book I’d read had documented nothing after his fathertook the throne. It was as if Col didn’t exist as king; he wasn’t even noted as Thalion’s son.
“Hundreds of fae starved. The area was overrun by tyrants who had Thalion’s approval to do as they wanted. And it wasn’t until Col took the throne that order returned.” Sky slurped up a spoonful of soup.
“How did he get rid of them? The tyrants.”
“Killed them,” she said plainly. “Hunted down every one of them and made a show of it for all to see by hanging them in the capital square.”
I grimaced. The same gentle hands that held me were responsible for the demise of others, just like the Suttons. But at least he had justifiable reasons. Plus, with any luck, I’d soon be doing the same.
“They’re just wary of you, that’s all. The town is filled with gossip.” Sky took a long drink. “They're nervous about him marrying someone from another kingdom.”
“I’m betrothed.” I laughed.
“Tell yourself whatever you want. I’ve never seen him look at anyone the way he looks at you.” She set down her spoon in the empty bowl and turned to face me. “And, well, I’ve never seen you look at anyone other than Col so …”
We sat in silence for a moment until she finally turned away. Whether because of the alcohol or exhaustion, I let my mind consider what my life might be like if I stayed. He’d said my father and friends would be welcomed too. I’d only need to give up avenging my brother’s murder, but that was a greater ask than he could possibly understand.
“Do you ever miss home?” I asked.
“Home has always been here for as long as I can remember.” Sky looked at the ceiling. “I miss my father. And I never knew my mother.” She turned her attention back to me. “I’d miss Amalee more, though. I would live in the depths of Oras if it meant I could do so with her.”
My skin pricked with sweat as the heat of the wine worked its way through me. I pulled off Col’s jacket, immediately missing his scent. I’d opted to use his spare jacket; it was an easy way to feel close to him when he was busy.
“Tell me about the significance of your tattoo.” Sky cocked her head.
I took a deep breath and finally told my brother and mother’s story without hesitation. With no attempt to honey-coat the details, I disclosed each and every ugly part, including my involvement in the situation—rather, my lack of involvement. I divulged my failure to protect my mother and my selfishness in choosing not to be with my brother in his last moments. My chest still ached, but the pain had dulled just slightly.
“You know, land witches believe animals come to visit those who need them,” she said, pondering aloud. “Now, I don’t know all of them, but I remember some.” She drained the rest of her mug. “The stag is for those who need courage. A turtle in the sea is when one needs perspective on the problems they face, and the bee …”
I looked at her expectantly.
“The bee is a loved one returning to pay a visit. Perhaps there is a little witch in your family after all.” She offered a thoughtful smile.
My heart swelled. "Maybe," I mused. Bees had come to visit me often, even in the garden at night when they should’ve been sleeping.
“Aside from the witch you’ve had in you at night.” Sky smirked, instantly lightening the mood. We both burst into laughter. “Shall we go back to the townhouse, or do you want to head to the castle and work on the land?”
Before I could answer, the door to the tavern swung open and hit the wall with a bang. Dolcie’s daughter came screaming in, taking several heaving breaths before she could speak. “They’re back! The witches—they’re back!”
