Mortals and their fragile bodies.
Rolling his eyes, he left the library, shutting the door as quietly as possible. He retrieved a blanket and returned to her.
He laid the blanket over her gently, so as not to wake her.
Caspian stared at her, watching her lips curve upwards into a small smile. She looked relaxed—more unguarded than he had ever seen her. She snuggled further into the chair, looking content in her slumber.
At least now she wouldn’t freeze.
Backing away slowly, he left the library.
In the hall outside, he nearly collided with Maud carrying a bucket and a mop. “Watch where you’re going,water demon,” he snarled.
Maud raised her brows and resettled the mop and bucket in her hands.
“What are you staring at?” Caspian hissed.
Maud inclined her head. “Nothing, Master.” She paused and said carefully, “I was about to clean the floors in the library.”
He scowled. “Do it another night.”
Maud blinked, then bobbed into a quick curtsey and strode back down the hall.
Better to be seen as a cruel master than to have her spot the reason for his ire: the mortal napping in his library with a blanket he had covered her with. He didn’t want any of his servants to think he might be turningsoft.
Chapter 30
A Riding Partner
The rain last night left the air cool and crisp, so much so that she had to draw her cloak close to ward off the chill as she made her way to the stables.
When she slid open the barn door, she was met with a shock. Caspian was there, standing beside a freshly brushed and saddled Icefire.
“Oh, hello,” Elizabeth said in surprise.
“I see you’ve made use of my stables,” Caspian said andsmiled.
Elizabeth blinked, confused as to why he was here. Where was the brooding master of the house who usually looked at her like she was a nuisance?
“Yes, thank you,” she said hesitantly. “I love to ride. Iago said it was alright to, er, make use of your stables.”
“Mhmm. One of the last days of summer,” he said ruefully, glancing out the stable doors at the foggy morning. “I meant to go riding more this year, but alas, I got swept up in things. Would you care to join me?”
“It would be my pleasure,” she said, looking at him sideways.
“Lial already saddled the horses. I wasn’t sure which steed you would prefer.” He glanced at all three of the horses in the stable, then back to her.
“Thank you,” she said and quickly went to Buttercup’s stall. There was no need to show him she could ride his stallion.
Draugr blew out a gust of air in the corner, displeased to be ignored.
She smiled.Next time, my spirited friend.
Caspian led Icefire out of the stables and mounted up. Elizabeth took Buttercup’s reins and followed closely behind.
Elizabeth was treated to the view of Caspian riding Icefire, which she had to admit wasn’t difficult on the eyes.
“Come,” he said. “I’ll show you one of my favourite trails in the area.”
