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His voice was even softer "Why did you helpa question like that She had puzzled over the possible question all day, turning it this way and that in herto determine the best way to free a nut from an unripe shell She was not sure if she had a suitable answer "Because you needed it," she replied siood deal of looking after, entle nudge to his shoulder

"That is true," he said, the hint of amusement in his voice He cleared his throat carefully "Have you thought of what you wanted from me? I did promise to reward you"

She was quiet in response, deliberately so She could not say as bri up inside her heart Could not ask for what she wanted most to hear and knew he could never say So she waited in silence, letting it stretch out Soful than words

Apparently, it was torturing him

"Lia?"

"Yes?"

"Did you…did you hear my question?"

"Yes," she replied si too talkative? "You oweNot a dance around the ations I was childish e firstin the kitchen I did not see you as a person, but as a hed deeply "What I ca was just to be your friend That was enough I thought I lost that a few days ago But when you came back and asked for my help, I realized that a true friend is not easily offended If you could s your pride and ask for help, I could sYou need me and I am fond of Marciana and Ellowyn And besides, you are not nearly clever enough to outfox Martin I kno he thinks Maybe that will help Maybe not"

It was his turn to be silent She let it flow past them, like a brook of sater

Another voice broke the stillness "Is it al, we may as well saddle the reatest fools" He rolled over and glared at the like knives "How can anyone sleep with all that whispering?"