Other Snips
I finally look up as he pulls me excitedly behind him. My cheeks hurt as I try to keep myself from smiling. I have to run next to him to keep up with his long stride.
Focus, Are’An. The commander needs your focus.
I pull against his tug. He does not notice, and releases me, putting his hands through the ivy vines covering the outside wall.
“So, Are’An, be truthful with me. Is your inn actually full? I think your innkeeper is leading me on.”
I laugh. “No, truly, the inn is full. It is so small; it is usually full.”
“Hmm.” He does not turn as he pulls the ivy aside, revealing a ladder. “Well, no matter. I am not far now, so I get at least a little time with you. I’ve got another day of leave while I await the next caravan. I found this spot quite by accident this morning and hid it again. Can’t wait to show it to you.”
I look back across the street to the Sugar’s Plum as he loudly pushes the ivy. I did not plan to be gone for long. I did not even tell Mary that I was leaving.
“Why did you not just come over and get me?” I ask. I would have been better prepared for this jaunt had I have known.
“And risk having that official deflect my plans and dismiss me? I think not...”
“So you will leave me to get the chastisement?” I ask with a laugh. “Added with being out past curfew?”
“Never mind that, Are'An,” he replies as he finishes pulling the ivy down. “The official likes you; you could probably get away with anything.”
I huff as he tugs my hand. Maybe. But only if the brute does not notice first.
“Besides, I’m in uniform. I'll escort you back later and you’ll have no trouble from the guards. Come, you go up first. It’s wobbly, but I promise it’ll hold.”
I have not even agreed to this outing. I pinch my lips and plant my feet. I should return to the inn. Brute or not, Sam will want an explanation of why I was out so late. And what if he is writing a letter to his home as I stand here? I should be…
I look up as he gently takes my hand. “Please?”
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