Once Upon a Romance 02 - As The Last Petal Falls (44 page)

“I’ve heard Mab keeps a teahouse in her palace, just to be perverse.”

“That’s the only reason she does anything.” Merriweather focused in on her grandson. “Now, what have you got to report?”

“Brannon’s mood is worsening. He’s always been crafty; now, at times, he seems almost mad. Ever since he failed to catch Fain, his behavior has been more and more erratic. When he received the official notice of the betrothal between Vivienne and Fain, he had a fit. Actually frothed at the mouth.”

“That must be bad for Bianca. How is she?”

“Fine,” he said shortly.

“And why are you taking that tone with me, young man?”

“Nothing, Grandmother.” He sighed and met her gaze. “I just don’t see what about her warrants our special attention. She’s a timid mouse of a girl.”

She stared at him piercingly for a moment, but he said nothing further.

“Very well, Robin. I suppose you are entitled to your opinion. No matter how wrong you happen to be.”

Idiot snorted in amusement, and Robin glared at her. Merriweather ignored the byplay.

“Your position remains secure?”

“If Brannon didn’t discover me before, he won’t now. He’s only a few steps shy of being a raving madman. Unless he begins slaughtering everyone, I should be safe. “

“See that you are.” She smiled for the first time. “It would be exceedingly distressing if anything untoward happened. I’m really quite fond of you, Robin.”

“And I, you, Grandmother.” He smiled back. “No matter how many sodden milquetoast maidens you set me to watching. Any further instructions?”

“Just keep her safe, Robin. Bianca is going to be important.”

Robin executed a florid bow, and then kissed Merriweather on the cheek. “In that case, I shall guard her with my life, Grandmother.” Idiot whinnied in farewell as he darted away, and Merriweather watched him go with a speculative gaze.

As the mists closed over the crossroads, she let out a petulant sigh.

A tea shop really wasn’t so much to ask.