Page 35 of Merciful Salvation

“Gold, tapestries, dozens of scrolls, and a pair of silver communion cups. They stripped the walls, floors, and closets clean.”

These were the priceless heirlooms the boy should care about most. Aaron would be happy to cut off his own finger to replace the lost one if it removed this sallow-faced runt from his presence. “We’ll leave in the morning.”

Tayte gave him a strange look after the boy left.

“Milord, why waste your time on this errand? I’ll go.”

“No.” He wanted to get Kara out of camp and trouble. More than a few of his men wanted to thrash her. And Marteinn continued to grow suspicious of him. His men reported the talented warrior had been asking questions about him.

He closed the books and excused himself. Why not share the news with her now?

Aaron hailed the guard stationed outside her tent. “Problems?”

“Nay, milord.” He opened the flap.

Kara sat on the edge of her pallet with her back facing the entrance. Either she didn’t hear him, or didn’t care. He admired the gentle curve of her spine. She wore a thick braid, which offered an unobstructed view of her slim neck. He’d fantasized about kissing that throat a few times. Truth be told, he’d drool over the soles of her feet, if she offered them. “Milady.”

She gazed over her shoulder.

“Another church has been despoiled.”

“Why report this incident to me?”

“I have an idea that benefits us both.”

“So do I.” She shifted sideways. “Send me home.”

“Please.” Aaron approached slowly. “You know I cannot do that—I promised your father—”

“Don’t speak to me about promises.”

All right. He’d avoid the subject. “Agree to cooperate and I’ll takeyou to Alesund for a few days to help investigate the attack.”

She chewed on her fingernails, deep in thought. “You want my help?”

“I’m offering you an opportunity to leave this tent.”

“That’s an interesting way to put it.”

“Be reasonable. The only alternative is staying here under the care of Marteinn and Tayte.”

She smiled. “Most women would jump at the chance to be alone with such accomplished warriors.”

Aaron felt a pang of jealousy. If she knew how Tayte felt about her, she’d reconsider.

“You confiscated my armor and weapons. You won’t let me out of this tent and I abhor chamber pots.” She stared resentfully at the brass urn in the corner. “Why should I go anywhere with you, if you don’t trust me?”

Anything he said set her on edge. “Consider it a chance to start over with each other.”

She arched a delicate brow. “Really?” She rested her chin on her hand. “When do we leave?”

Aaron let out a long breath. For the first time in days, he’d finally chipped through her cold resolve. “First light.”

“Who rides with us?”

“No one.”

“Won’t my maid and Marteinn be opposed to us travelling alone?”