“Trust does seem to be a rather rare commodity among magic users,” Rakel acknowledged. “So I took the trouble to prepare a token of my confidence.”
Farrin raised an eyebrow. “A token?”
“Little Wolf, catch!” Phile shouted as she raced past on her horse. She handed off Farrin’s sword—wrapped in cloth. When Rakel took it, she almost dropped it due to its weight. She fumbled, aware that Farrin’s eyes were focused on the weapon.
Farrin flexed his fingers as Rakel freed the sword of its wrappings.
“A token,” She repeated. She held out the sword.
“What is to keep me from taking my sword and slaughtering your troops?”
“Nothing, except I know you would not do that.”
Farrin raised his gaze from the sword to Rakel. “You really want me to join you?”
“I do.”
“And will I be your leashed dog?” Farrin asked.
“You are your own man, Farrin. I trust you to do what is right.”
“And your people?”
“There is some unrest, but they are growing to accept magic users. If any of them try to limit you, I will take on the same treatment they give you,” Rakel said.Please, please let this work. For his sake, as well as for the sake of Verglas. If he returns to Tenebris, he won’t survive.
Farrin’s eyes grew warm. He brushed his sword, but instead of taking it, leaned closer to Rakel.
Ah…yes…I forgot the need to address…this.“I am aware,” Rakel said.
Farrin tilted his head. “Of?”
Rakel gulped. He was close enough that his breath fanned her white bangs. “Of how you feel about me.”
The corners of Farrin’s mouth curled up. “I wasn’t particularly trying to hide it.”
“I see,” Rakel said.
“You are rejecting me?”
Yes.“No.”
What? Yes, I am! Say yes!Rakel met his gaze and squared her shoulders. “But I will not lie to you and tell you I return your affection when I do not.”
Farrin studied her. “I see.”
“All I can offer you is friendship,” Rakel said. The way his eyes smoldered made her panic a little.What am I supposed to do?She felt like a cornered rabbit, but this time she knew it wasn’t danger she faced.
“Will you push me away?” Farrin asked.
Rakel frowned. “Why would I do that?”
Farrin’s smile grew wolfish.
I am in so much trouble, thought the part of her mind that sounded suspiciously like Phile.
Farrin wrapped one of his hands around the hilt of his sword. “Very well, I accept your offer—on one condition.”
“Yes?”
