“What do we do?” I ask.
“We must flee. Or prepare to fight all of Vidar’s men. They will come, but only after Sigurd’s ruling.”
“Why don’t they come now?”
“Vidar wants to stay lawful, if possible. For his reputation as future jarl. But in the dark of night, the law often gets buried.”
“I am doomed,” I sob.
“You are not.”
“How do you know?”
I slap a hand on his chest. How can he say such words? Empty promises. I repeat my question.
“How do you know?”
He raises my face with a finger to my chin. The depth of his ocean-colored eyes contrasts to the red fire burning within them.
“You are mine.”
CHAPTER 75
“What the fuck do you mean you need the ring?”
I storm around the room, my arms folded. I can’t take my eyes from the sneaky skald. The sneaky bastard skald. He looks at me like I’m a mad storm, but he’s the one tearing me apart. He shifts in the chair.
“I can’t leave without the ring,” he says simply.
“Can’t leave? Why?”
“I told you. I’ve been sent. I’ve been here for years. I have no choice.”
“There’s always a choice.”
He scoffs. Leaning over and holding his forehead in his hands. His dark hair hangs on the sides, only a small braid is in the back.
“Not for me. No.”
“Why not?”
“My orders are clear.”
His orders? Here I was thinking he was a free soul. Free like the wind. How am I supposed to trust him now? He has ties. He has a chain of his own. He will leave me. I fucking know it. Why wouldn’t he? I’d be a fool for hoping otherwise.
“What orders?”
He stands. For the first time, I see irritation on his face. Or maybe fear. He cuts the air with his hand.
“To steal her fucking ring.”
Her ring?Herring? Of course, I fucking knew it. I’m not even a part of his story. Of all the things he could say. I feel sick. He’s beenhersall along. A queen’s toy. I just warmed his furs in the meantime. I quench my jealousy, refusing to show him weakness.
“You said we would escape together. You said I was… That I was yours. Now you have other loyalties? You said no one would touch me.”
How could I trust him? Believe his honeyed words. I’m such a fool. A stupid silly girl with stupid silly dreams. His eyes dive into mine.
“I just need the ring. Then I am free, like you.”
