Page 3 of Chasing the Night

They smiled across the table until it almost became unnerving. Finally, Blazian tapped her nails on the table top and trailed back toward the serving area.

“I didn't get a chance to thank you,” I said to Reverie once I found my voice. I hated myself for the awkwardness, but I couldn't seem to keep it at bay. Reverie seemed not to notice. Her hand landed atop mine in that familiar way, and she shook her head as if it had been nothing.

“I've done business here for some time, but I've never been inside… of course, there's never been a horn blast either…” my voice trailed off.

“It's been a busy morning, for sure,” Reverie agreed. She tipped her head toward the basket I had set on the floor, and curiosity won over her dainty features. “What kind of business is it you do, Lady Chalice?”

I wanted to laugh. No one had ever called me a lady before. I doubted such titles were afforded to Dirt Dwellers.

“Potions and tonics for the afflicted.” I lifted the basket onto the table and pulled back the edge of the towel covering so she could see the many brown glass bottles and herb bundles.

“You really know what those are for?” Reverie asked without malice. She seemed impressed, which was silly to me—I’d been handling medicine all my life.

“Sure.” I smiled. “Is there one in particular you would have?”

It was the least I could do. She had offered me safety, after all.