Mystic's Touch by Dena Garson Page B

of my suites.
    “I’ll speak to the queen in the morning about moving you.
There are guest quarters in this wing but I don’t know if they are being used
right now.”
    “I would feel better if you did.”
    “So would I, quite frankly,” Danet admitted. “Once he begins
recovering and word gets out, I think he’ll be at his most vulnerable.”
    Don’t remind me.
    She tossed a look of sympathy in Ceros’ direction.
    “What’d he say?” Gehiji asked.
    “He doesn’t like not being able to defend himself, or anyone
else for that matter,” she answered.
    “I can understand his frustration.” Gehiji looked to Danet.
“Perhaps it is a good thing no one else knows about your ability to speak to
him. You might rethink telling anyone.”
    “The queen is the only one I have agreed to tell. But there
are conditions on that agreement.”
    “I’m just saying, be very cautious with that information. It
may endanger your life.” He glanced to where the prince lay. “Even more than it
probably is.”
    “Yes, I know,” she said with a sigh.
    Ceros mumbled something not very gentlemanlike.

Chapter Nine
     
    After Gehiji’s late-night visit, Danet fell asleep without
tossing and turning.
    Ceros sensed her tension and the jumble of thoughts
streaming through her mind. Thankfully that quieted after talking with Gehiji.
He hoped it was because they had the start of a plan and not because of Gehiji.
    He knew the moment she woke. She stretched then the
seemingly nonstop parade of thoughts began again. How she sorted through
everything floating around her mind was amazing.
    Good morning , Ceros said. He heard her move around on
the lounge.
    Good morning.
    He sensed her worrying about her appearance. Some things
must be universal for all women. I’m sure you look fine, he said, trying
to reassure her.
    Yes, well, you don’t have to face an endless stream of
royalty before luncheon.
    He chuckled.
    How are you feeling this morning? she asked.
    A little stiff in my back, but otherwise well.
    Good. Let’s have a look then I’ll go freshen up.
    Danet checked his temperature and heartbeat. He sensed she
was happy with what she found. Next she checked his neck where the thorn had
been.
    The redness and swelling are almost gone, she relayed
then moved to examine his hands and feet. It may be me and wishful thinking
but it seems as if there is a little more response in your extremities. I’ll do
a more thorough check after breakfast, but that’s very good news. I hope it
means the thorn had something to do with your condition and that you’ll
continue to improve.
    I’m not worried.
    Danet laughed. Liar. She patted him on the chest then
stood. I had better make myself presentable before anyone shows up. By the
way, what is your favorite song? s he asked.
    Why?
    I was hoping you could hum it while I’m in the bathing
room. Since you’re in my head, it feels as if you’re standing right next to me.
I would feel better having a few minutes of privacy, if you don’t mind.
    Ceros chuckled. Very well.
    Thank you.
    He heard Danet telling the guards to keep anyone other than
the queen or Hesina from entering until she said otherwise.
    Start humming, she reminded him.
    He hummed the first thing that popped into his mind. It was
a bawdy tavern song he learned while living in Shirghada. Hopefully she didn’t
know the words.
    While Danet washed and dressed, Gehiji snuck in. Ceros
listened with half an ear as Gehiji reported what he learned about palace
security. Or lack thereof. He was distracted knowing Danet was very likely
naked in the next room. He didn’t know what she looked like, but had a very
active imagination.
    He felt her sigh as she admired his oversized tub then held
his breath as she debated taking a long soak. Thankfully she decided she didn’t
have enough time. The thought of her soaking in his tub was far too appealing.
    “How did you get in?” Danet asked Gehiji when she returned
to the sleeping area.
    Gehiji