Far Away Bird by Douglas A. Burton

Author:Douglas A. Burton [Burton, Douglas A. & Burton, Douglas A.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Silent Music Press, LLC
Published: 2020-02-05T23:00:00+00:00

thirty

Theodora sat at the empty table in the Chamber of Cupid. The shutters were closed to keep out the winter cold, but she still heard the cheering crowds at the distant Hippodrome. Their wild chorus sounded similar to the revelers from last night’s final performance, only far off, at a safe distance, with chariots occupying their attention instead of geese.

And Justinian had been there, somewhere. She never saw him, but he would’ve seen her. He saw the Notorious Theodora at her most brazen and now he was late for their meeting. She wondered how he could ever look at her again as a woman of intelligence.

She shifted and winced at the soreness of her body, the places where the bird’s bill had pinched her skin. Just as the despair crept deeper into Theodora’s thoughts, the doors to the chamber opened. Justinian strode into the room, acknowledging Theodora with a nod. He sat and flung his cape over one shoulder, tossing snowflakes into the air. Macedonia wasn’t with him.

“Good morning,” he said. “How are you?”

Theodora blinked. She searched his eyes for any judgment on her, any hint of disgust or discomfort, but there was nothing.

“I’m well,” she said. “Considering the party.”

“I know,” said Justinian. He then held up a small black leather coin purse and gave it a shake. The heavy coins clinked as he dropped the purse in front of Theodora. “That’s for you. Twice your usual amount.”

“Justinian, the reason I went on that stage—”

“There’s no need to explain. I saw what happened,” he said, his look stern. “But we can’t talk about that right now. You and I must stay centered on our work.”

“Of course.” Theodora had no habit speaking about her private affairs. Indeed, she often showed the world a veneer that reflected the very opposite of what she felt. She nodded. “So, Hypatius,” she said. “I spent another long evening with him.”

“Is that so?”

Theodora hesitated. She couldn’t quite shake the urge to justify herself to this man, the man in the stands, the man who once thought her worth saving.

Justinian smiled. “Did our friend finally consummate his arrangement? Perhaps rediscover his manhood?”

Theodora shook her head. “He didn’t even try this time.”

“What the hell is he getting out of all this?” he said in disbelief.

“He wants someone to listen to him,” Theodora said, defending Hypatius. “He’s adjusting to a lesser role in life, and I understand him. Hypatius thought the world had a special place for him. But the world passed him by.”

Justinian seemed curious about the insight. “Did he tell you anything specific last night?”

“Oh yes. After the party, we had our best night yet. He mentioned you by name.”

“Me?”

“In passing. But he spoke mainly about your father, Justin.” She paused for emphasis. “Hypatius said that if the emperor dies without naming a successor, that it’s the count of the Excubitors who directs the election. Your father.”

Justinian remained stoic. “Did you sense that he suspected you as an informer?”

“No,” she said. “But is it true?”

“Is what true?”

Theodora leaned forward.

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