FOREVER KNIGHTS: #6 Malevolent Attentions
RHYERS - Do I Care if They're Smart?

Marshall Manse, Mane Country

RHYERS

Rhyers knew Ebony watched him from where she sat on the settee in the parlor. The glass doors were open onto the balcony and people milled in and out staring at the night sky. Anticipating the promise of Urrides’ Comet passing tonight. An event self-proclaimed astronomers swore would be visible to the human eye in a mere hour.

The guests currently enjoyed the social time prior to the dinner party.

Not a huge gathering, by any means. But far too many people I don’t know. Rhyers swirled wine in his glass anxiously. His assessing gaze roving the individuals crammed into the Marshall Parlor.

He hovered near the glass doors to try and keep both Ebony in the Parlor, and Samuel on the balcony, in view.

His recent nightmare still branded in his brain. Visions of a blonde woman with light, curling hair and watery brown eyes trying to scratch or stab Ebony. Trying countless ways to kill her.

Intermingled in the visions, was Chavias’ presence, his voice telling Rhyers to protect her.

He meant Ebony. Rhyers scanned every new visitor arriving. Periodically returning to Ebony who pouted on the settee. Occasionally sending him sad glances.

Don’t look at me like that. His jaw ticked.

He didn’t have time right now to wonder what plagued her. He’d learned enough over the years to pay attention to such ominous things as warnings in dreams.

A young attractive brunette approached him. A woman he knew well, taken for several walks in the park.

She’s kind and amusing. And she passes the time. He laughed with her. Enjoying the light in her brown eyes.

There was no Cimmerii stink on her. No shred of malice.

And I like brunettes.

She caressed a hand down his arm, asking if he’d mind her requesting Sam Marshall to seat them together at dinner.

“Not at all. Please do.” He grinned at her.

She walked away and he appreciated the appealing loll of her hips.

Fine hips indeed. Feeling eyes, he looked over and saw Ebony on the settee glaring accusingly.

What now? Brow furrowing, he walked to her.

“What?”

“You were talking with that woman.” She confronted him.

Yes! Contrary to common belief I am not attracted to men. He thought disgruntled. Hopefully tonight will be enlightening for her.

He sat on the white settee. Giving the woman a lingering study. “Yes, I was.”

“Why are you looking at her like that?”

Because I find women attractive! He wanted to huff. Though it’ll do little good at this juncture unless she decides for herself.

Why does it matter if she thinks me a boy-lover?

Because it’s false! His mind screams. His attempts at self-reassurance failing dramatically.

“She’s quite beautiful,” His brows lifted at Ebony’s annoyed tone. “if you hadn’t noticed?”

“Don’t you care if she’s smart?”

“A smart woman is twice as attractive. And she is quite as intelligent.” He gave Ebony a confused look. “Where is all this coming from?”

She fiddled with her skirt. Looking her hands over. “Perhaps I’d like a man to look at me as that.”

“You’re still young yet.”

“No, I’m not!” She glared at him. “Rebecca Parson had her come out ball two years ago. When she was my age!”

“Yes, well Rebecca Parson is a horrible girl. Nothing like you.”

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