Page 41 of An Unlikely Knight

Chapter Twelve

Needing to see about the yoga studio, Aubrey had left making Erin promise to be careful and not go anywhere alone.

Erin joined the rest of the women around a table in the conservatory, the glass walls making it seem as if they were outdoors while protecting them from the now falling drizzle. Although cloudy, the view of the garden and the plush green hills with sprinkles of lavender in the distance was enchanting.

“I have a horrible feeling about what Liam is telling them,” Gwen said, sliding a look in the direction of the library. “They have been in there a long time.”

Erin frowned. “Padriag mentioned that he was already feeling the pull to return, I imagine they will continue speaking until he leaves.” A part of her ached at not seeing him once again before he returned to the alter-world, the feel of his kisses still forefront on her mind. She wished for at least one more.

What if he didn’t return? How would she be able to continue everyday life knowing he was trapped forever? Her chest tightened just thinking about it. They had to free him, otherwise she’d not be able to live with herself.

Tristan, Gavin and Niall entered the room, their grim expressions and paleness revealing that whatever they’d been told had not been good.

“Liam has gone to see John,” Niall explained. “We need to speak to each of you.”

Each man took their partner by the hand, avoiding eye contact with Erin as they guided them from the room.

Erin’s heart sank. Padriag must have returned to the alter-world as he had not entered with the others. She closed her eyes and leaned back, willing her body to relax if just for a moment. Soon she’d find out what was to happen next, and since she was now sure it would be bad news, perhaps this would be the last time she’d be able to clear her mind.

Erin stood and went closer to the window. A whispered plea formed in her mind as she looked up to the sky. “I need to know the reason why I am here,” she said to no one in particular. “Show me the reason.”

She was not sure what she’d hoped for, perhaps a booming voice from the sky or a bolt of lightning hitting her and filling her with superpowers. The silence, although disappointing, was not a surprise.

“Erin.” Padriag’s voice was startling. Erin whirled to see him standing just inside the door.

“I thought you’d left.” She rushed to him. “I know whatever Liam said wasn’t good news. Can you tell me what he said?”

Unable to keep from it, she reached for his hand. “Padriag?”

“You asked that I fight for you. For us,” Padriag began. “Give me the strength because I am not sure I have enough right now. I have to regain not only mental and physical strength, but more than ever, I need my powers to be renewed for what’s ahead.”

How was she supposed to help with that? Erin was sure she was powerless. Unlike the others, she’d never been exposed to any kind of magic, witchcraft, or any mystical crafts. The only thing she could do was to rely on reasoning. There had to be a reason she’d been chosen to help Padriag, and a reason Meliot had captured her and taken her to the other realm.

“I have no answer as to what the reason is for me being part of this, but know I will do what I can.”

“Whatever the reason,” Padriag said, wrapping his arms around Erin’s waist. “I am glad.”

Erin leaned in, her head coming to rest on his shoulder. “I am glad too, but I want to be helpful. I need to do whatever is necessary.”

Something like an electrical shock made her gasp. “What was that?”

“What?” Padriag asked with a puzzled expression. “What happened.”

Another jolt struck, this one so strong the hairs on her arms stood on end. Holding her arms up, she gaped at them. “It’s like I’m being shocked. Ouch!” she cried out when another one passed through her.

Padriag pulled her against his body, holding her close. “I don’t see anything.”

The last jolt was so strong, Erin gritted her teeth and groaned. “What the hell?”

For the next few moments they waited in silence, Erin braced in case it happened again.

“I think they stopped.” She blew out a breath. “What was that?”

“I am not sure.” Padriag studied her. “Do you feel different?”

At first she took a tentative step away from the safety of his embrace and then another, she walked in a circle. Something like an undercurrent sizzled beneath her skin, it wasn’t uncomfortable, but definitely unsettling.

She met Padriag’s gaze. There he stood, a weary warrior, and yet strength and power emanated from him. Deep in her soul, she knew he would fight until the last breath and not give up no matter how tired he was.