I'd do this quick, my patience done for the day. I tried to calm my racing heart that I knew they could hear.
Azriel and Cassian took a seat by the fire, muttering in low volume, wine in hand. They both wore mischievous smirks.
I shot them a smile, plonking my pack loudly on the dining table.
Azriel smiled back.
I walked as casually as possible from the room, my heart racing, sweat prickling on my skin with my blood pumping. I didn't need the pack as I'd be back in a day.
I used the side exit near the laundry this time.
Scurrying down the steps I broke into a jog as soon as my feet hit the ground.
I turned back to check over my shoulder.
Nothing.
I twisted my head back around forward-
Cassian stooped low, hauling me effortlessly over his left shoulder.
I gasped in shock, the ground swimming up closer as I hung over his shoulder.
He boomed a laugh so genuine, I found myself chuckling.
"I win the bet Az! You owe me the good wine!" He shouted.
"Only by 2 minutes come on." I heard Azriel complain.
"Hey- put me down!" I shouted, hitting his back uselessly. I really forgot how cunning and calculated these damn Illyrians were.
His chest rumbled with another laugh as he walked us up the stairs.
"Nice try. But you can't lie to an Illyrian." Cassian set me on my feet, my cheeks flushed from the adrenaline.
Azriel leaned with his wine in hand, laughing quietly into his cup, Cassian standing with a proud smugness on his face.
I couldn't help breaking out in laughter with them, punching Cassian's arm.
Azriel smirked, winking once as he placed a full wine challenge into my hands.
"I hate you both." I laughed as I took a sip.
Azriel's white teeth shone in a wide smile and Cassian boomer another deep laugh.