“It’s hard to explain,” I said finally. Harder still for her to understand with the fog of Amir’s Gift clouding her mind. “But I need it. Would you get it for me?” I begged, tears coming to my eyes despite my best efforts. “Please, Havah? Would you help me?”
“Of course, I will, Arie-zada,” she smiled, pressing my hands between hers before wiping my cheek where a tear had slipped out. “I don’t know what’s gotten into you, but if this will make you feel better, I’m happy to help.”
We stood together and I hurried her toward the door. “Thank you,” I whispered, voice cracking. “Promise me you won’t tell anyone—do you promise?” I made her swear to me twice that she wouldn’t tell a soul before allowing her to leave, but she paused at the door, hand fluttering to her heart as she teared up.
“What’s wrong?” A flicker of hope mixed with worry rose in me. Was she finding her way out from under the compulsion? Or was she second guessing my request?
But she smiled through her tears. “I’m just so happy for you,” she said, her voice rising high and squeaky. “You’ve found your prince!”
Whisking out of the room, she shut the door behind her before I could answer.
Alone, I wrung my hands, wondering if she’d keep her promise. Would she bring me my dagger or would she tell someone? Was the dagger even there to be found?
“I’m not looking for a prince!” I snapped at the closed door, kicking at my skirt as I paced. “I’m looking for a sword!”
CHAPTER 44
Kadin
MY MEN AND Islipped into the city of Hodafez unnoticed in the chaos and festivities. Fireworks sounded even though it was still daylight. Children ran about with sparklers and ribbons.
“Good sir,” I stopped a man headed toward the castle dragging along a toddler while his wife carried the baby. “Where are you headed on this fine day?”
“Haven’t you heard?” He hiked the child higher as he walked. “It’s Summer’s Eve—” My spirits lifted as he hoisted the child, but then he added, “and the royal wedding is tonight at sunset! The whole town is invited. We’re going to get in line now.”
I let the man go ahead, slowing as that sunk in.
Had Arie agreed to the wedding then? I’d tried not to think on it too closely, but somehow, I’d hoped she’d find another way.
I picked up my pace. “Looks like we’re going to enter the castle the old-fashioned way.”
“In broad daylight?” Bosh whispered loudly as he caught up to me. “How are we going to do that?”
“What about ‘Ladies-in-Waiting’?” Ryo offered. “That might work during the day.”
“I amnotwearing a dress,” Daichi argued. “‘Ghost in the Stable’ would be better.”
