Cage of Deceit(50)
“Yes, it’s just a few blocks up ahead.”
“Is there anything I need to know about this inn? Any particular reason the assassin would have chosen it?”
“I don’t know,” she answered. “I’ve only passed by; I’ve never gone in.”
“It doesn’t have any sort of reputation?”
“Not that I’m aware of.” She and Grevik tended to avoid inns, instead focusing on taverns and ale houses to locate criminals.
They walked in silence for several minutes.
“How do you feel about the prince now that you’ve spent some time with him?”
She shrugged, surprised he was attempting to converse with her on something other than the task at hand. “He’s not as arrogant as I originally thought. Honestly, he isn’t the man I’d choose to marry, but then again, this isn’t about me. This is about doing what’s best for Emperion.”
“Most women swoon over him.”
“He is handsome,” she admitted. “I’m sure we can grow to love one another in time.”
“Ideally, what sort of man do you wish to marry?”
Blimey. Why was he asking the tough questions right now? “I always imagined marrying someone who loves this kingdom as much as I do, someone who is willing to fight alongside me to protect our people. I want a husband who knows his mind, is passionate, and who makes me a better ruler. I don’t know if that makes any sense,” Allyssa said, “but that’s what I want.” She desired a strong and loving marriage like her parents had. Not only did they love one another, but they complimented each other when it came to ruling the kingdom.
Jarvik didn’t respond. They walked in silence. She wondered if he’d heard her—if he’d even been listening—if she’d said too much. Maybe he’d just asked to make conversation. He probably didn’t really want to know. After all, they hated each other, didn’t they?
“Is that the Wooden Inn over there?” he asked.
“It is. Are we going to head inside and sit in the tavern in order to scout it out? Or do you want to walk around outside?”
His eyes darted around the street, observing the nearby buildings and the few people lingering nearby. “Three of my men will remain outside on patrol,” he whispered near her ear, making her jump. “The other three will go inside with us to check the place out.” He wrapped his arm around her shoulders. “You can’t attract unwanted attention, so we need to appear friendly with one another. For the time being, let’s act like we enjoy each other’s company.”
“Very well,” she replied. “But you do understand that means you’ll have to be cordial to me, my dear Jarvik.” She smiled sweetly at him.
He shook his head. “I’m always nice. It’s you I’m worried about.”
They entered the inn and made their way to the tavern inside. The place was busy, but there were still tables available. Sitting down off to the side near the wall so their backs were protected, they ordered two bowls of stew and two cups of ale.
Allyssa leaned back and propped her legs up on a nearby chair. The squire raised his eyebrows, but he didn’t say anything. Bloody hell, she loved the freedom of the city, of not having to act like a princess. It was fantastic. The three Fren soldiers came inside and headed to the bar, blending in with the patrons.
A serving wench brought their food. Jarvik picked up his spoon and started eating, Allyssa intently watching him. “What?” he mumbled between bites.
“Nothing,” she replied, putting her legs down on the ground. “I’m just trying to get a read on you.”
“Well, don’t. We’re not here for pleasantries.”
She snorted. Didn’t he say that they needed to pretend they liked one another? He probably meant that as long as they appeared friendly toward one another, they didn’t actually need to be cordial. “Forgive me, how could I have been mistaken?” she sarcastically drawled. After taking a few bites of her own stew, she wiped her mouth and leaned forward. “Did you notice the man in the corner, east end, brown cloak, hood on? He’s not the man we’re looking for, but he’s definitely up to no good.”
“Why do you say that?” Jarvik asked, putting his spoon down.
“The guy’s alone, but he keeps looking around and fidgeting with the handle of his mug. He’s nervous.” She wished Grevik was here. He’d be over there talking to the man by now, attacking trouble head on without hesitation. When she and Jarvik were done here, she’d have to take the long way home and pay her friend a visit.