As I bend over to grab my basket, Ari holds my arm with a firm tenderness. I look into his eyes. He seems earnest. Our faces are close, like earlier. Even with all of this, I feel drawn to him. My eyes flicker to his lips.
“I would do it again,” he whispers.
Raising myself abruptly, I force a laugh to dispel the pull that connects us.
“Yes, well, thank you. I have to go.”
I walk briskly toward the door.
“Thanks for the healing, Kilda,” he calls after me.
“It’s not like you needed it,” I say, bearing a stupid smile I can’t erase.
A thought strikes before I reach the door. He evaded my question, the sneaky bastard. Sneaky bastard crow.
“So,” I say as I turn to him, “why are you in Opdal?”
He throws his head back in laughter. A genuine, naked laugh. It’s the first time I’ve heard him laugh like that.
“You’re so inquisitive,” he says.
“So, why?”
“I can trust you, right?” he asks.
“Trustme? You’re the fucking troll giant Jotnar!”
“Promise me not to tell anyone?”
“Fine, Ari, fucking yes.”
“Swear it.”
“I swear on my grave and honor,” I say, remembering how he had sworn that time up the mountain.
“Very good.” He grins. “Swear you won’t ask any more questions about it tonight?”
“I’m exhausted, Ari. I swear. Odin’s ass, just tell me.”
“I’m here to steal something.”
“Steal?” I’m shocked, I hadn’t expected that. “What? From who?”
He stands and stretches his arms, forcing me to turn and cover my eyes. I giggle at his stupid theatrics.
“Just fucking tell me,” I groan as I jump up and down.
“To steal a ring. From the jarl.”
CHAPTER 54
They are avoiding me. I know it.
Practically all men avert their eyes, pretending I’m not there. They used to smile, some of them, at least. People would salute me, nod. Many men fear Volvas. It’s not unusual for them to keep their distance. I saw that with Groa. But this is different. Folk pay their respects to the gods through those who are touched, feeling awe even if they are wary.
Wary of a magic woman? Of course. But a Jotnar skald? That’s just fine. A Jotnar skald planning to steal from the jarl? No problem. Even if they knew about Ari, they would probably think a little girl with vivid dreams was a bigger threat to the order of things. Fucking maniacs.
Taking quick steps toward the thrall quarters, I hold my head high, my unkempt braid swaying in the tempestuous wind. I willfind my friends. Surely they will not judge me for defending one of our own.
