Rosanda’s shy, delicate smile turned to a look of infinite perplexity. Then the
older woman blushed hotly and fled from Chenaya’s view.
Daughter winked at father. “A chunky little tidbit to ease your worried mind,
eh?”
Lowan rapped her lightly on the brow with his fingers. “Don’t be impudent,
child. She and Molin have separated, and your aunt is quite upset. She’s staying
here a | few days until she gets herself together.”
“By the Bright Light!” Chenaya exclaimed, clapping a hand melodramatically to
her heart. “She must be giving Dayrne fits about the housekeeping.”
“Not at all. Mistress,” Dayrne said from the foot of the stair.
“She’s actually been quite helpful,” Lowan Vigeles insisted. “She’s taken a firm
hand in the restorations.” He laid a hand on his daughter’s shoulder and
compelled her to meet his gaze. “And you must be kind to her. Whatever you think
of Molin, Rosanda is a lady and a guest in our house. Her head may be full of
sky, but her heart is full of love.” He smiled suddenly and ran a hand over her
blonde curls. “And she’s inordinately fond of you. She thinks you’re the only
true Rankan woman left in the city … beside herself, of course.” He reached
for her hand. “Now, come sit by the hearth in my room and tell me of your
journey.” •
Chenaya hesitated. “I’m afraid we’re going to have more company than Rosanda.”
She indicated her companion who had remained patiently near the entrance. “I’ve
brought someone home, too.”
Still clutching the unsheathed dagger, her companion pushed back the concealing