A/N – Thanks for the comments! Hopefully, no one is in the flood zones.

Chapter 10

The next day was rough. They managed to get the smaller catapults into place, but it was hard work. There was so much to do and time is waning.

Jason was quiet at dinner, leaving Liz to wonder what he was thinking. While she was used to his level of quietness, he was never this shut down.

AJ sat next to his brother. "Need to talk?" He had waited until everyone else had left.

Jason shook his head.

"You sure?"

Jason sighed heavily. "So many things can go wrong. I just don't want to let anyone down."

"Is that directed more at Elizabeth?"

"Partially. She's lost a lot. I don't want to add to that."

"You always were too hard on yourself."

Jason leaned forward. "We don't have a lot of time left."

"It is going fast. Are you sleeping?" There are bags under his eyes and his stride seems like he's walking through mud.

"Not the best." He has too much on his mind, and trying to turn off the endless chatter in his head has proven to be a daunting task.

AJ shook his head. "You need to work on that."

Elizabeth can't hear what they are saying but has an idea. Jason looks utterly exhausted. Deciding on a plan, she went to find Georgie.

Jason nodded. "I know. The closer we get, the more I can't. We have to make sure everything is handled." They had gotten word that another group of barbarians had joined with Sonny. As a result, they had to call in more favors and sent a few men south to deliver the message.

"I know I'm not you but how can I assist?"

"I don't know."

After a few minutes, AJ spoke again. "Let me help ready what we need for the catapults. We'll have someone stand guard." He'll speak to Jaggar before he goes to bed. It's the least he can do and it will give his brother time to deal with other things.

Jason stood. "That sounds good. I'm going to go turn in."

AJ watched him leave and then went to find Jagger.

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After a brief walk in the garden, Jason decided he didn't need anything more to make him feel tired and headed to his room. When he pushed the door open, he was met with the smell of lavender.

"Georgie?"

She smiled. "Hi. Your hot bath is ready."

When his head tilted, she giggled. "Don't be scared. I didn't put anything untoward in it. There are no snakes or monsters."

He smirked. "Thanks. I think." When he moved in further, he froze.

Elizabeth moved forward. "While I appreciate your efforts, you look tired. Relax in the bath. When you are ready for bed, there's a cup beside it. My mother would make it for my father when he was fretting. It's just herbs and will help you sleep." Her mother was very good at making remedies and using natural herbs for healing and she taught Elizabeth well. It's something she can always carry with her about her mom.

He is at a loss for words and not used to anyone caring for him. Due to his moody countenance and busy days, he had little patience for coddling.

"Georgie, will you give us a moment?"

As Georgie moved past her, she whispered, "Scandalous," making Liz grin.

"You look like you have much to say."

He shifted before he began to speak. "I—I'm not used to this."

She took a few steps forward. "You don't have people looking after you in Mayven?"

"Not like this."

"If we're going to be partners, we must learn to read each other without words."

When he frowned, she chuckled.

"Johnny says it's dangerous to guess what goes on in a woman's head."

"Aye, but certain movements you make help me know when you are truly angry, relaxed, uncomfortable…" Jason shifted again. "Just like you just did. I pay attention."

Their gaze locked. "Sometimes I know you're around even though I don't see you." He can't explain it, but it's true. The fact that she is focusing on him to learn his needs or how to interact is a bit overwhelming but nice.

Liz swallowed hard. She wasn't sure if Jason felt anything for her, but now, she has hope that maybe things will turn out well.

He took two steps towards her and grabbed her hand. "Thank you."

As his thumb moved against her skin, her heartbeat increased. They can't deny they have a connection.

She couldn't form any words as their eyes remained locked. He had briefly shown her his vulnerability and she was deeply moved by it.

"Now who is it that can't speak?"

A smile lit up her face. "Aye. By the way, I assume we'll have separate bed chambers?"

He scratched his head. "My parent's rooms are adjoined.."

"So were mine."

He shrugged. "Why don't we play it by ear?"

He shifted, so she pressed it. "Say what you want to say."

"Well, it would be easier for me to protect you if we shared a bed chamber, but I don't want you to feel you have to. Don't fret about it."

"Okay." She knew her face is red, but she could only imagine that after sharing intimacy, it would be odd to just leave and very impersonal. She didn't like the thought of that at all. Tradition isn't always the best solution.

"Go get some rest but know this. You will be the last thing I think about before my eyes fall shut."

"And for me the same."

When his hand retreated, she felt the loss as did he. Slightly blushing, she hurried past him into the hallway where Georgie is waiting.

"Spill," she whispered.

Liz dragged her to her room. "We made a connection."

Georgie's eyes grew wide. "With your lips?"

Liz laughed. "No. I just—it's hard to explain but I feel there is something between us."

"You're growing closer."

"Aye."

"And?"

A smile remained on Liz's face just thinking about his brief touch. "I think we will be just fine."

Georgie had to fight a squeal. "That is the best news."

"It's promising." She had never felt the feelings simmering inside her and it scares her a bit, but it's also exciting. It's not about his looks at all. There is far more to him, and she is glad that whatever is between them is developing so naturally.

"Don't let him hide from it."

Liz's brow rose. "He is much bigger than me."

Georgie laughed.

"I know what you meant. What I like about the situation is that he has no reference either. We both can learn. I'm sure we will butt heads, we are both stubborn by nature, but I won't let it linger."

"Your parents taught you well."

"Aye."

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In the other room, Jason finished the sleep remedy and lay on his bed. As he shut his eyes, he thought about Elizabeth and what a surprise she had been so far. He doesn't have time to spend quality time with her, but he's impressed so far. Lila would have loved her. He slightly smiled as he thought about his grandmother who he greatly misses. She was like his compass, always supportive, but she let him know when he was wrong. When people praise him, he always wants to give her credit for the man he turned out to be. When things got to be too much, she was the person he turned to, and now, God was giving him another person who seemed like they'd have his back too. Maybe Lila still has his back and made all of this happen. It would be something she would do.

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In Elizabeth's room, she thought about the last couple of days and the fact she is getting married soon and it almost took her breath away. Jason… Would her father have liked him? Maybe… He was overly protective of his daughters, and the thought of him trying to be strict while they pouted made her smile. She sees some of her father's qualities in Jason.

She sighed before turning onto her side and snuggling against the pillow. The only conflict in her heart is that they don't love each other and must marry, but she is hopeful that will happen in time because a life without love seems awful. Dare she dream? She feels safer with Jason around than she has for a long time, and tonight, something had majorly shifted. Instead of running for the hills, she wanted to run toward him. After losing her family, she shoved down her feelings for a while until Georgie and Tiffany confronted her. It took a while, but she finally allowed her grief to manifest and then let it go. After all the things she has learned and had to endure, maybe Jason is a gift from her parents as they watch over her, for love is something her parents always wanted her to experience. With that thought, a smile edged onto her face, and she surrendered to her slumber.

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The next morning, Jason, Elizabeth, Georgie, Tiffany, and Johnny met in a room away from everyone. When Helena suddenly strode into the room, the men stood. A bright smile lit up Elizabeth's face.

"You weren't going to start without me, right?"

Tiffany almost groaned. She is aware that Helena has taken a liking to Elizabeth, and it gives her the creeps.

Helena eyed Tiffany.

"What?" Tiffany said trying to control her emotions.

Helena smirked. "Elizabeth."

"Hello."

Helena sat across from her as Tiffany mumbled, "Witch," under her breath.

Elizabeth bit her lip to stop herself from smiling. "How was your journey?"

"I drank some tea and slept the whole way. It's much more enjoyable that way."

Liz nodded.

Tiffany cleared her throat. "We need to talk about the wedding."

AJ rushed into the room and sat next to his brother. "Sorry, I'm late."

Helena eyed him suspiciously. "Did Irina get settled?"

"Aye," AJ said with a slight smile that made Helena want to smack it off his face.

Jason almost smiled at the fear in Elizabeth's eyes. He hadn't known of his brother's crush, but now he does.

Liz didn't like the mischievous look on Jason's face at all.

AJ is so happy that Helena brought his crush, that he'll probably have a ridiculously happy expression for days.

"Jason, I hope you don't mind but I had them design your wedding ensemble."

"Okay." He trusted her and frankly, didn't care about close as long as it's not too garish.

"I took your personality into consideration."

He nodded.

"I hear you went rogue with your dress design," Helena said before sipping the tea that had been placed before her by Georgie.

Liz's jaw dropped. "How in the world do you know?"

Helena chuckled. "Stavros."

Liz shook her head. "The traitor," making Helena laugh harder. "I didn't want something obnoxious and uncomfortable, so I created what I wanted."

"I can't wait to see it."

Tiffany smiled. "It's almost finished. We may have to pay the seamstress more. She doesn't understand your design choice."

Liz grinned. "She is more into big blooming skirts. I'm too small for that. It will overwhelm me."

Helena eyed her. "Well, no matter, you will be the center of attention. What are you wearing for jewelry?"

Johnny eyed Jason as if to say let's run which made his friend chuckle.

"I am going to wear the crown my mother wore for special occasions and her ruby and diamond necklace." It is dainty and pretty and would go with Lila's ring.

"If you'll allow me, I have the perfect pair of earrings I brought," Helena said.

"I would be honored."

Helena is pleased. "Is that alright?" she said addressing Tiffany who had been like Elizabeth's surrogate mother.

"Aye. I have a bracelet she will wear." It's dainty and very unique, something an artist like Elizabeth will appreciate.

"Thank you," Elizabeth said trying to quell her emotions.

"Will there be a veil to cover Jason's face," Johnny said before he was punched in the arm as AJ laughed.

"You are bad," Liz said.

"There will be various celebrations the two days before. We will eat and be merry."

"That's the best thing I've heard all morning," AJ said.

"Will there be a bedding ceremony?" Helena asked mischievously, which garnered a glare from Elizabeth and made Tiffany choke on her tea.

Liz patted her on the back. "What happens in the bed chambers, stays there."

"I'm afraid that due to the arrangement, there will be a quick blessing ceremony, and your sheets will have to be checked on the morn."

Jason sighed heavily. "We don't need to discuss this. I have it under control."

AJ almost laughed at the perplexed look on his brother's face. His father will get a kick from hearing about it.

"Thank God," Johnny muttered. He wants no part of it.

"Is that all?" Jason asked.

Knowing the men had reached their tolerance point, Tiffany said, "Yes. If there is anything special you want to eat or drink, let Georgie know."

"I'll take care of it," Johnny said. Any excuse to visit his girl is welcome.

The men left the table.

"You didn't have to be crass," Tiffany hissed.

"Yes, I did."

Georgie is clearing the table and avidly listening.

"Are you going to drive me crazy for the duration?"

Helena grinned. "That is the plan." She stood. "Are you preparing their chamber?"

"I will probably direct Georgie on what to do. Some of Elizabeth's things must be moved into Jason's room." It is custom to have separate rooms, but Tiffany hopes that the two will gravitate more toward each other. Traditions can be broken. While most upper class and royals sleep separately to make sure they are well rested and makes things easier on the guards, it isn't a requirement.

"Let me know if you need any ideas. I'm going to go find my son." It's time to get an update from Stavros regarding any new rumors.

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The next few days were a bevy of activity. They managed to get most of the shields done. Elizabeth's hand is aching from making arrows.

"You okay?" AJ asked before plopping beside her.

"Aye. I just got a splinter out."

"Let me see."

He picked up her hand and held it as he perused a small mark.

Someone cleared his throat and AJ knew exactly who it was, but he wondered where he came from. He certainly wasn't there a few minutes ago. "Almost done," She said before kissing Liz's hand. "Better?"

She is at a loss for words until Jason clears his throat and she looks up. "Oh," she said before glaring at AJ.

"Did you need to speak with my betrothed?"

Jason knelt. "Tread lightly brother or I'll fling you from one of your catapults."

AJ laughed.

"Are you okay?" Jason asked before staring at her hand.

"I'm fine. I just got a piece of wood in it."

"Maybe you should cover your hands when you do that."

"Duly noted," she said before smiling. "What are you up to?"

"Some girl named Maxie, who is very loud, is looking for you."

Liz's eyes grew big, and she jumped up and ran.

"Who is Maxie?" AJ asked.

"No clue," Jason said before standing fully. "Come on, I have an idea and need your opinion."

AJ is happy to oblige.