“I did.And you are a very good conversationalist, if you must know.”
The look she sent him warmed him straight through.Were he human in this moment, he would gather her in his arms and kiss her until they both forgot their names.
She added, “Did I mention I have clever ideas, as well?No?Well, mayhap you can still lay claim to a creation, even in this form.You are yet in full possession of your brain...and your hands, though small, work fine.”
Rather than discuss the limitations of his diminutive status, Riven tried clearing his throat, though all that came out was a fewwum wumsounds.“Bella, give me two days.If we cannot determine a way to break this curse, I will ensure you are well on your way home.”
A bit of worry crossed her visage, but she nodded.“Agreed.”
They were now quite a few blocks into his village.In fact, they were all the way to the pub where Riven first met Jack, the man who played the tin whistle in their band.The scent of pastries carried to him from Pierre’s shop across the street, and Riven’s amphibious stomach rumbled in memory of the sweet apple tarts.Alas, the baker would not be able to make change from the coin in Bella’s pocket.Though his companion knew not its worth, Riven did.A prince’s weekly wages she carried in that coin, and he did not want her to get swindled or cheated.
“How long have you been a frog?”
Torn from his musing, he blinked at her.“Half a day at most.The longest of my life.”
“Interesting morning we both have had.”She regarded his froggy form.“Have you considered ways to break the curse?”
“I have not had time to do so.”
Her eyes sparkled.“Then I must deliver you immediately back to your pond.Clearly, I am a distraction.”
His throat made thewumsound again.“The absolute best of distractions.I would be wallowing in sorrow had you not appeared.”
“No,” she clarified.“You would be wallowing in mud.”She laughed at her own jest.
And for the first time that day, Riven felt enchanted.
––––––––
AFTER A FEW MOMENTSof travel, Bella asked, “Where should we go first?”
He considered his answer.“Are you comfortable around well-mannered horses?”
“All horses, yes.We have a lovely plow horse at home.Her name is Mathilda, and she is wonderfully versatile.”
“The same one who tossed your father?”
She eyed him.“I found paw and claw marks in the frost where there was clearly a scuffle.It was most likely a wolf attack, so I place no blame on her withers.”
Riven would smile if he could.“Your father was lucky to have escaped them.”
“The castle was quite close when it happened.I understand why he sought shelter there.”
Her comfort and confidence in horses would work with his plan.“Keep on this street until you reach the inn.Then, go inside and ask for Enzo.Give him the coin and tell him you were sent to return Nocturne to his barn.”
“Nocturne is a horse?”
“Yes.I know he was stabled there while I was in the bar.He is all black, devoid of markings, so he will not stand out.You will walk him, not ride him.”
“You know this horse?”She eyed him.“Oh.He is your horse, is he not?”
Although Riven had no interest in telling her the truth, his throat let out a giant croak.
“Hm.”Bella looked straight ahead.“So now I’m to become a wastrel horse thief like you?”
He smirked at her tease.“Horse delivery girl.You will need him.Esch-Sur-Sûre is a long way from here.”
“You’re familiar with the town I’m from?”
