FOREVER KNIGHTS: #13 Salvaging Souls

Night Manor, Mane Country

CHAVIAS

When Chavias returned to Night Manor he was still in a foul mood and very weak. But one look at the stunning blonde wandering the corridor and he eased. She brings me such peace. Like watching a slow snowfall.

Mesmerized by Sabine’s graceful movements, he noted even the gentle sway of her hair as she stepped was sleek. The rounded curve of her hips beneath her fitted gown rolling in a smooth wave. And the warm mounds pressing the fabric thin just below her collarbone as she turned to adjust some flowers in one of the vases.

I’ve been alone too long. He groaned inwardly at the tightening of his body at the mere sight of her.

Ire fading as hunger took its place. I could spend hours worshipping those curves. Tracing every hollow of her body with my hands. Tasting that skin…

As she neared the corner next to the stairs, he stepped from the shadows and watched her lovely blue eyes widen in shock.

Squeaking as she jumped. “You scared me to death!” Her hands fluttered around her comically.

A low chuckle escaped him. “I didn’t mean to. I was watching you.”

Always, I suppose. He admitted to himself.

“You shouldn’t watch me from shadows. ’Tis improper.” She sniffed haughtily.

You don’t care. His lips twitched. Knowing her better than that.

“Would it be more proper if I openly gawked at you?”

“Gawking is not particularly proper.” She said hesitantly. Giving him her full attention and working to hide her expression.

What are you thinking?

“Then best I do it in shadow.”

“You aren’t funny.” But she was grinning. Revealing the curve of full lips over even white teeth. She reached out and lightly gripped his bicep. “How are you? I did miss you.”

That small touch sent shockwaves through him. His brows shot up. “In truth? You needn’t toy with me for kindnesses. Simply ask me for what you desire.”

“Fine then.” Her hand slid away, and he felt a brief flow of disappointment.

Should’ve kept my fool mouth shut and let her touch me.

“I wish for your company.”

That’s all?

“Done.” He blurted, stamping down his excitement as he politely offered her his arm. “I was just coming to request you sup with me.”

“Indeed?” She arched a lovely blonde brow. “Have I a gentleman tonight?” Her soft palm fell on his forearm as she allowed him to guide her to the steps. Catching her skirts in her other hand as she took them.

I’d be your gentleman any day you allowed me to.

“You’re grace is fascinating.” He complimented.

“Is it?” She shot him a surprised look. “It isn’t usually my grace men comment upon.”

No doubt. You’re gorgeous.

“Men are, by practice, often dogs.”

“But not you?”

I try not to be. He led her around the bend in the foyer toward the Dining Room.

“Not me.” He gave a grudging nod. “I’m a wolf.”

She laughed as they rounded the doorway into the vast Dining Room. A great feast lay before them. Since the sun was now setting, the servants had lit the candles in the chandelier overlooking the great cherry mahogany structure stretching along the Hall. Tapestries depicting children playing in meadows and water hung on each wall.

On the table, was a tray displaying cheese next to another containing basted partridge laying amidst a nest of twice-baked potatoes and boiled eggs. Another tray bore pork surrounded by sugar-glazed vegetables.

“To celebrate your return?” She asked.

To celebrate you being here. He’d told the servants to make it that morning.

They took their seats.

He at the head of the table and she to his right.

She plucked a hunk of bread and heaped pork and vegetables on it. After meeting his look a moment, she tossed down her meat and looked at him fully. “You haven’t touched your food.”

“I’ve eaten too recently to be hungry.” Pouring himself a glass of wine, he leaned back in his chair. One arm clutching his stomach lightly. The other elbow rested on the table, his chin propped on the other fist. He watched her attentively. Steely gaze cutting through her.

Looking away she focused her attention on her trencher.

He considered doing the same. If I eat now I’ll vomit when Okine tortures me. I’d rather starve. How could I tell her that?

“I find you fascinating.” She delicately put a piece of pork to her lips.

“Do you?”

Why’s that?

“This is delicious.” She offered again.

I can’t.

“I’m glad it’s to your taste. Tell me why I fascinate you. I’d dearly love to know.”