Страница 74 из 87
She stood, and stretched, and even that small movement prickled power along my skin. «I feel so very much better.» She looked down at me and offered me her hand.
I took it and let her help me to my feet. She kept my hand in hers, giving me very serious eyes. «Come, Meredith, let us go kill the traitor who tried to bespell her queen. Doyle tells me we have an assassin to find as well.»
I wondered then how long I'd been insensible. All I said out loud was, «As my queen wills it.»
She pulled me suddenly and roughly against her, putting my arm behind my back with her hand still holding it. «I am grateful, Meredith, very grateful for this gift of magic, but do not misunderstand. If I think that by bringing you into my bed I can recall that magic, I will. If I think that by sending you to anyone's arms, that level of magic can be reborn, I will send you. Is that clear?»
I swallowed and took a deep breath before I answered, «Yes, Aunt Andais, it is clear.»
«Then give your auntie a kiss.»
What else could I do? I put a light kiss upon those lips, and she slipped her arm through mine, patting my hand as if we were the best of friends. «Come, Meredith, let us go slay our enemies.»
I'd have been a lot happier to accompany her to the throne room if she hadn't kept touching me. It wasn't so much a lover's touch, but almost like you'd pet a dog. Something you stroke for comfort, and because it can't say no.