Sunday's Child(35)

“He won’t approve of our current arrangement.”

She glanced over her shoulder at Doranis who stood behind her, his features half hidden by the hood he wore. Despite the protective covering, he still squinted against the bright sun flashing off the surface of the water.

“You are king,” she said. “What can he say?”

He snorted. “And he is your father. Were I him, I’d insist that you be moved to another bedchamber entirely until we are wed.”

She laughed. “Well then, mayhap you will finally awaken in my bed for once.”

His smile was mischievous, full of promise. “I am certain that can be arranged.” He rested his hand on her waist, pulling her back until she leaned against him, and they both watched as the Estarta cut through the waves toward them. The sea air was cool, heavy with the scent of salt and fish. Doranis stiffened for a moment, surprised by the gentle breeze that seemed to swirl around them. He sniffed audibly. “Do you smell that? It’s familiar, though I know no such flower grows here.”

Melancholy danced with joy inside Castil. “It’s sea rose blossom,” she said. “Kareena’s favorite scent. A blessing and a farewell, I think.” She flared her nostrils to catch the fast fading perfume.

“Fair journey, my beloved friend. And thank you.”

END