FOREVER KNIGHTS: #5 Subjugation of Beasts

WaterRose, Meadow Mountain, Grier Country

SEBASTIAN

Rhyers returned to WaterRose this afternoon. Finding Sebastian and Dorena in the Dining Hall. Sitting on the fur near the fire.

To check on me. Bast knew.

But instead Rhyers spent the duration of the last few hours with his disapproving gaze sliding from Dorena clinging to Bast’s arm, then up to the level above them.

Wondering why she’s not here. And where she is.

I’m not betraying her. He wanted to tell Rhyers but hadn’t yet had a chance to be alone with his brethren.

She’s everywhere. He worked to hide the annoyance from his expression as he looked to Dorena who chatted amiably.

“Will you join us for dinner?” She asked Rhyers excitedly. Clutching Bast’s bicep as though in sheer joy.

Please stop touching me. His cheek twitched as he reminded himself to be polite.

Rhyers’ eyes flicked to the movement dully. “Will Elsabet be joining us?”

No. Not if I’m here! Bast found himself rolling his eyes despite his best efforts.

“She’ll be invited.” He answered. Unwilling to admit it was unlikely she’d come.

I’ve invited her every eve since Dorena came but she won’t come down. Bast knew it was cruel to wish Dorena would leave WaterRose. But I sorely want her to go.

“She never comes though.” Dorena said a bit more seriously. Blue eyes hardening some.

I want a chance to be close to Elsabet again. Bast barely noticed the glimmer of jealousy that Rhyers was so keen on.

His vivid green gaze zeroing in on the blonde.

I long to see Elsabet rummaging through the library while I catch tantalizing bits of her wildflower smell. He sighed at the thought.

“I’m going to go invite her.” Rhyers headed for the stairs.

“You’re going to?” Bast’s head reared back.

Since when do you two get along? He was as startled as envious. No that’s a lie. Obviously more envious.

“Yes.” Rhyers nodded. Giving him a challenging green-eyed look. “I am.”

Oh, don’t piss me off Brother. I know what you’re about. Bast cocked his head warningly.

Rhyers’ swiveled, long raven hair moving as his boots clicked on the stairs.

Bast listened to every movement until hearing Rhyers knocking on Elsabet’s door. Just as he’d longed to do all sennight.

She ripped it open and there was a moment of silence. As she glares at Rhyers, no doubt.

Dorena spoke but Bast was attentive to what occurred upstairs, tuning out her friendly chatter.

Not now.

“You?” Elsabet said scathingly. “Come to chastise me today?” She walked from the door, leaving it open.

“No.” Rhyers said dully. “Are you okay?” He asked more softly.

No. She’s furious with me.

And hurt, I suspect. Bast gnawed his cheek as he studied the ceiling above him to hear better.

“Are you listening?” Dorena asked.

Absolutely not.

“Definitely.” He reassured without looking at her.

Just not to you. It wasn’t a lie.

Elsabet’s step halted and skid as she turned.

Surprised by Rhyers’ question.

I know. I am too.

“Am I okay?”

Silence. He’s probably gesturing down here.

Like the traitorous brother he is.

“No.” Elsabet said so softly Bast almost didn’t catch it.

But he did. And it crushed him.

“He may be indulging her flirting, but I know my Brother.” Rhyers’ voice.

Finally!

“Meaning?” That haughty blonde brow would be lifted.

Like insulted royalty. Bast smiled. Knowing that look.

“Meaning you’ve nothing to worry about. However, I wouldn’t have thought you’d be one to cower in the face of adversity?”

Yes, challenge her. It was a good idea.

I’d have gone with pleading, then trying to bully her.

“Say what you mean.” She said acidly.

“Come to dinner. With me.”