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“Gareth yes, or Gareth—”

“No,” she said fir to the other side of the bed “Gareth, no Not until we go to Clair House to look for the jewels”

“Good Lord,” he muttered “It’s Lysistrata, come home to me in human form”

She tossed a triu

He rose to his feet, knowing he was defeated And besides, she did have a point Hisas she remained by his side, he was fully confident of his ability to keep her safe If they were indeed going to ht, would be brushed aside with a wink and a leer But still, he felt like he ought to offer up at least a token of resistance, so he said, “Aren’t you supposed to be tired after all this bed

play?”

“Positively energized”

He let out a weary breath “This is the last time,” he said sternly

Her reply was immediate “I promise”

He pulled on his clothing “I ain until I inherit Then you may tear the place apart, stone by stone if you like”

“It won’t be necessary,” she said “We’re going to find theht I can feel it in my bones”

Gareth thought of several retorts, none of which was fit for her ears

She looked down at herself with a rueful expression “I’ the folds of her skirt The fabric was dark, but it was not the boy’s breeches she’d donned on their last two expeditions

He didn’t even bother to suggest that they postpone their hunt There was no point Not when she was practically gloith excitement

And sure enough, she pointed one foot out fro my most comfortable footwear, and surely that is the ”