Protected by Emeralds (A Dance with Destiny Book 5) by JK Ensley & Jennifer Ensley

Author:JK Ensley & Jennifer Ensley [Ensley, JK]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2014-10-11T23:00:00+00:00

Chapter 18

Duhrias

(duh-RYE-us)

Jenevier lay on her side, staring out the window at the waning day, refusing to turn when she heard the latch pop.

Although she could not sense who it was, Jenevier knew the weight of the approaching footfalls rendered Cherie an impossibility. It had to be Dimples.

He didn’t speak. Silence ruled the room for several minutes.

“Kagi Naga,” he finally whispered.

“Did you know?”

He didn’t answer.

“Did you know what Akio wanted with me?”

“I didn’t even know what you were. I was told to retrieve a package. Nothing more.”

“Then why did you not do as you were told? Why did you not deliver the package as commanded?”

He didn’t answer.

“Is it because when you saw what the package actually was… you knew my fate without being told?”

“…Yes.”

“Know this.” She growled through her words. “I will not go willingly. I will not be subject to that vile man, ever again.”

“I understand.”

“Do you? Do you truly?” She turned to face him then, ignoring the obvious guilt in his lovely emerald eyes. “Do you understand what I mean when I say nothing, absolutely nothing, will stop me? If you choose to stand in my way, you will forfeit your own life… and the life of that precious young girl you love so much.”

A smile turned up one corner of his mouth. “I understand, Kagi Naga. You are not my prisoner. I am but a sell-sword, not a slave master. If you decide to leave, the matter will not concern me. Akio’s men now stand as guards. Not I.”

She glanced behind him, toward the door. “How many?” she whispered.

“A bath has been prepared for you, Milady.” He picked up the discarded robe, speaking louder than necessary, and held it up for her. “You are to have all you need, all you desire. Lord Akio wishes to see you healed as soon as possible. Your medicinal bath now waits. I shall take you there, when you are ready.”

Jenevier looked from the man to the door and back to the man again. He winked.

When she tried to stand but only fell back against the bed, she finally broke down and started crying. Feeling the warmth of the robe draped across her shoulders, she gave in and allowed herself to be carried to the bathhouse.

“Do you wish me to stay?” he asked as he eased her into the blessed warmth.

“I need to be alone, if that is well with you, Dimples.”

He smiled softly. “I understand. But remember,” he whispered. “You are not alone. The walls have ears. I’ll bring you some soap and towels. Just relax. Let it all go, Kagi Naga.” He touched her cheek. “These springs are said to have healing powers. Magic flows through these waters, Milady.”

She slowly sank down into the warmth and tried her best… to let it all go.

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