The anger inside her faded quickly when Iran looked at her. Too soft. Too perfect. Too right. And that overwhelming understanding in those sad blue eyes.

  Ivy moved closer and reached out, her palm brushing gently over the spot she’d struck. Then, following another impulse, she shifted nearer, resting her free hand on the ranger’s knee and pressing her lips lightly to his cheek. Careful. Unobtrusive. A silent apology. After that, she settled back on her knees in front of him.

  — And you’re a painfully proper, hopelessly anxious, slightly stupid elf.

  She smiled sincerely, feeling her heart twitch. Something tightened in her chest, forcing her to grin like a complete fool.

  — There wasn’t a brothel, Iran. I found an elven woman who needs help with repairs. If she’s satisfied, she might even pay me.

  Her dark fingers slid along his sleeve, brushing his hand without taking it — giving him the choice to pull away.

  — And right now, the proper elf needs to sleep and stop ruining his perfect schedule.

  — It’s not about whether there was a brothel or not, Ivy.

  He replied quietly.

  — It’s about your decision. You made it. It was real. I… like that you can be yourself. Do what you want. We’re just different. I’m happy for you. Truly. We just can’t be… well… together. I’m still your friend, Ivy. A friend.

  You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.

  He rose from the bed and placed a hand on her shoulder.

  — I’m going on a solo patrol. That’s what I want.

  Iran crossed the dim room, lifted his massive bow and the quiver filled with arrows, slung it over his shoulder, and headed toward the door.

  — Stay here if you want. Though I doubt you’d agree to live in someone’s storage room for nothing.

  He smiled sincerely.

  — It felt important to clarify. You were jealous yesterday.

  Ivy shrugged, then sprang to her feet and crossed the room in long strides. She grabbed her bag but took only a wooden comb from it. She deliberately left the dagger behind, as if leaving a piece of herself with him.

  — Besides… good sex doesn’t ruin a friendship.

  She gave him a sly grin and headed for the door. She needed to get back to Yanael — the elf was probably already back.

  For the first time since yesterday, she could breathe fully. The familiar lightness returned.

  — Alright then. Just don’t die.

  She rose onto her toes but ended up kissing only his shoulder. Missed.

  — Thanks for the offer, but you know me too well. Don’t worry. I’ll pay off my debt and disappear from this town completely. The local elves don’t like me. Though two of them very much do. Isn’t that happiness? For me, yeah!

  Cheerful, she slipped out the door like a fox.

  Iran smiled again, lowering his gaze. Maybe he had wanted something more. But from the beginning, he should’ve known Ivy wasn’t made for his quiet, orderly life. He stepped out after her, closing the door behind him.

  Outside, it was bright. Almost hot. Close to midday.

  Near Iran’s house stood several market stalls. At one of them, a familiar elf was busily bargaining with a vendor. Yanael flashed a cunning smile and dropped a handful of coins for her purchase. Then she grabbed a broom and awkwardly shoved it into a large, simple sack, tying it tightly and wiping sweat from her forehead.

  Spotting her, Ivy smirked and waved warmly to Iran before darting toward the elf, weaving between customers without bumping anyone. Her boots tapped sharply against the stone, almost dancing to their own rhythm.

  She stopped beside Yanael, tilting her head out of habit, long chestnut hair swaying in the wind.

  — Oh, not just a broom — a whole damn brush bundle. You’re a master negotiator. Need help?

  She cast quick, warm glances back at the departing Iran.

  — Oh! Meet my mischievous little rodent,

  Yanael said to the vendor, gesturing toward Ivy.

  The elf wrapped both arms around the sack and, with effort, lifted it. She bent slightly — then abruptly tossed the heavy bag straight at the peasant girl.

  — You carry it. I’m fucking done.

  The blonde grunted, clutching her side.

  — Lounging around while I do all the work. Move it! You could've bought everything yourself instead of making me handle it!

  She turned, chin lifted proudly, and strode toward her building — only to trip over a stone and nearly fall. Yanael doubled slightly, her hair falling into her face. She straightened, flicked her head to toss the pale strands back, lifted her chin again — and continued forward, hips swaying as if nothing had happened at all.