Chapter Six
Ignoring allthe hate-filled glares sent his way, Azio waited for me near the wall. He watched my approach with keen attention that I didn’t immediately notice. I was too busy silently fuming.
“Good morning, Terri. May I carry you?” he asked.
“You may.”
It wasn’t until we were over the wall that I realized leaving with him hadn’t been necessary. I knew the contents of his cupboards and could have negotiated a trade without leaving Tenacity. But staying would have felt like I’d let Wayne win. And he’d already had far too many wins in our marriage.
Rather than asking Azio to turn around, I tucked my face against his chest. His arms tightened around me slightly just as they had the day before. And darn if I didn’t like it. I pretended it was the hug I was craving at the moment—comfort from someone who cared.
That thought made my eyes water, and I sniffled.
“You are safe, Terri,” Azio said a moment before he jumped, and my stomach flipped.
He didn’t put me down as soon as he landed, though. I was smart enough not to look up this time.
“May I carry you to my house? I don’t want you to faint again.”
“That’s very considerate. Thank you.”
He didn’t move.
“Is that consent to carry you?” The hesitance and confusion in his tone had me smiling.
“It is. Thank you for double-checking.”
This time he started walking, and I kept my forehead pressed against his tee-shirt-covered pectoral until he reached his front door. He let me down without me having to ask.
Inside, the same fey from the day before watched a movie, which he paused when I entered.
He didn’t look up at me, though.
“Good morning, Terri,” he greeted.
“Good morning. It’s Groth, right?”
“Yes.”
Not sure what more to say, I plucked open the bag to show them the clothes. As soon as the dress lay on the back of the couch, Groth stood and came closer. Their expressions ranged from confusion to awe the longer they studied it.
“Babies wear this?” Azio asked.
“Yes. Well, female babies do. Although, I don’t think anyone would say anything if you put it on a boy except maybe, ‘cute girl.’ It’s not something a baby would wear every day. It’s a special occasion kind of thing. A fancy dress fit for a princess.”
“Special,” Azio said, petting a ruffle. “I will trade much food for this.”
I cringed and felt a stab of guilt.
“If you’re looking for clothes, it’s better to trade for practical items. Durable outfits.” Which I’d brought with and quickly produced. Azio considered the little jeans. Without looking at me, he grunted and went to the kitchen.
I glanced at Groth, who quickly looked away from me.
“Do you have another one like this? I would like one too.”
“There are other dresses, but none like this. I can check with other houses, though.”
“Thank you.”