FOREVER KNIGHTS: #14 Broken Birds

Grier Library, Meadowbrook, Grier Country

RHYERS

Rhyers jerked to the side several times to dislodge remaining clumps of hair as he straightened into his tall, slim, human form. Long shining black hair falling over his shoulders. A burgundy undervest was complimented by the shade of his black velvet overcoat. Dark breeches and high boots. A perfectly folded cravat accentuated the sharp lines of his jaw and nose.

Adjusting his overcoat, he walked the short distance to the Library and the footmen opened the doors as he walked up. He entered and rolled his shoulders to ease his back. Spotting Nora sitting with another woman.

Looking exactly as she has in every lifetime.

Her blue eyes flicked over her teacup and caught sight of him.

Knowing what I am as clearly as I can see what she is. Despite that we’ve never met. He strolled in. Feeling the avid gazes of many of Grier’s tutelage girls. And a few widows sipping tea. Ignoring their interest, he pulled a random book from a shelf and began flicking the pages.

“What are we doing?” A familiar voice queried.

Oh, no. Not here.

“Hello, Ebs.” His head shrank between his shoulders even before he turned and met her dark gaze.

“What are we doing today, Bodin?” She asked again.

She’s asking if I’m on a mission without her.

I am. But not one of our usual missions. This is a Captain’s mission.

“It doesn’t count.” Was all he could muster as he faced her. His eyes inadvertently flicking to the lovely blonde sipping tea.

“What do you mean by that? Who is that?” Ebony’s keen gaze followed his attention.

“It’s hard to explain.”

I’m watching over The Fallen.

“Is it though?” Her eyes narrowed.

It’s not what you think…

“Are you here with those women?”

Yes.

“No.” He paused. “Well yes, watching them.”

Her black brows shot up.

“Watching over them!” He corrected.

Too late.

Her face was written with black wrath.

Not good.

“What are you doing here?” He accused.

As though she did something wrong. He groaned inwardly. Very smooth.

She’s going to get emotional. He cringed.

Her face was already turning florid and she stomped. “Bodin Rhyers!”

“What?” He shrugged, frowning. “Why is it when I’m in trouble I’m always Bodin but when you’re breathy in my arms I’m ‘Christophe’?” He questioned in a hushed voice. Peering sideways furtively. “You do know we’re the same person?”

“No.”

Yes. He stiffened.

“The hell we’re not.”

“What are you doing here?” She demanded.

“What are you doing here? When did you get here?”

“I’m here for books.” She gestured around. “I make trips to Grier on occasion to enjoy the tea and read.”

Doubtful that’s the only reason.

“And to get away from Bodin.” He accused.

“Yes, well…There is that.” She glowered. “But now I find Christophe here without a partner!”

“I didn’t need a partner for this mission. It’s not for Metriossis.”

“I wouldn’t see why the King of the Paladines would need you in Grier Country!” She countered. Small fists balling at her sides as she leaned forward. “So whose mission is this?”

My alphas.

“My Captain’s.”

“Captain?” She reared back. “Captain of what?”

Forever Knights.

“Me.” He shrugged. Unsure what else to say.

“You’re paying spy games with me, Bodin.” Her eyes narrowed.

“Don’t say that here.”

She sidled closer. Feet scraping the floor. “Then tell me what the mission is.”

“Protect that woman,” He nodded toward the blonde who was staring intently at their interchange. “from any threat. In the name of the Captain.”

“Fine.” She snapped open a white fan with a design of a deer. “Then I shall assist.”

“And how might you do that?” He lifted a black brow.

“Who knows better how to protect a lady then a lady?”

Rhyers grunted. “Whatever you say…”