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"You onderful—Merlin through and through, without so ed to intimidate me "

Julian chuckled "Now that is indeed an accomplishment"

Aurora didn't smile "Daydreams and reality are far removed from each other, aren't they?" she asked in troubled realization

"Indeed they are" Julian caressed her cheek "Very different" He paused, studying her face "Are you up for this, soleil? I could bring you hoht myself"

"No" Aurora seized the edges of his coat "I'd be htened if you did this alone than I am now At least this way I can look out for you"

A corner of his mouth lifted "I'm honored"

"You're amused Don't be I haven't had ample opportunity to prove it, but I'm equally as determined as you to take care of those I love"

"As I said, I'm honored"

"And dubious"

"No, soleil Never dubious when it comes to you"

Julian's head caet out of here"

"How long will it take us to get to the Cove?" Aurora inquired, following close beside him

"It's less than athe bank of the Fowey River If we stay close to the shore, we should be able to sail upriver and dock within a half hour We could go by foot, but I'd feel better if we avoided the riffraff we'd encounter along the way We'll have plenty of time to deal with them once we reach the tavern itself"

"I can hardly wait," Aurora retorted