Sorry this chapter is so short and took forever. I've been a very busy bee!
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Blink and You Miss It
Aravis wiped her tears with the hem of her billowing sleeve. She observed Cor bristling all the while but did not care. In fact, it only further fueled her mirth.
"What is so funny?"
Aravis finally regained her breath. "No," was her answer.
Cor stopped his fuming immediately.
"No one would believe it, anyway."
Cor blinked at her.
Aravis could not tell if he was shocked, hurt or formulating a plan "B" already and not really looking at her at all. She would not be surprised.
With a slight sigh of exasperation the tarkheena brushed past the prince. But before she could get very far his hand gently grasped her shoulder, arresting her movement.
"Why not? If I had to marry someone I would rather it be you."
Aravis went very still.
"Why do you say that?" She asked slowly.
Cor blinked at her again. He was not sure either.
"I don't know, really. But, we are friends, right?" A little grin tugged at the corner of his mouth.
Aravis rolled her eyes but her expression softened. "Of course we are friends, Cor."
"I would rather marry a friend than a perfect stranger. At least I would know what I was getting into."
Aravis ignored the possible jibe and instead tried to voice the thought that suddenly popped into her head.
"But, what would you do about . . . ?" Aravis dipped her head at him expectantly. " . . . You know . . . ?"
Cor blinked at her for a third time before turning a deep crimson. He immediately let go of her shoulder.
To the pair the fresh air suddenly felt as close as in the mews. Trumpets sounded in the distance.
Cor regained his composure. "Lady Amberjill must be here."
Aravis looked back toward the castle. "Must be." Then turned back to him. "So, what are you going to—"
Cor was no longer there.
"Coward!"