Queen, when you get back to the Oak; she’ll explain.”
“Speaking of explanations,” began Paul from behind her, but Knife shook her head. “Just a moment,” she told him. “I have one last thing to say to my friends.” Bending as near to Wink and Thorn as she dared, she said softly, “ Thank you. I promise you, I will never forget what you have done for me.”
Wink hiccupped and flung herself sobbing into Thorn’s arms, nearly squashing Linden in the process. Thorn rolled her eyes and thumped the Seamstress on the back, but it was clear that she, too, was touched. “Remember what I told you, human,” she said gruffly to Paul. “Take care of her-or you’ll answer to me.”
“I hear you,” said Paul. He laid his hands on Knife’s shoulders, and together they watched as the faeries made their way back across the darkened lawn. When they had vanished among the shadows of the Oak, he pulled Knife against him and put his lips to her ear. She closed her eyes, expecting a kiss, but heard instead:
“We have a problem. I haven’t the faintest idea what I’m going to tell my parents.”
“Oh, Great Gardener,” said Knife, twisting around to face him. “I hadn’t thought of that.”
“Yes, well, I wouldn’t have expected you to, with all the other things on your mind. But somehow I think introducing you at the breakfast table tomorrow is going to be awkward.” He looked down at her, and even in the fading moonlight she could see his color rise. “Particularly as you’ll be wearing my clothes.”
Knife brushed back the pale hair from his eyes, then leaned forward and kissed him. “I’m serious!” he objected, when she let him speak. “What am I supposed to say-‘I found her lying naked on the lawn at midnight, can I keep her?’” He stopped. “You’re shivering. Did I frighten you? Don’t worry, I’m sure it’ll be all right.”
“I’m just a little cold,” said Knife, pulling the blanket closer about her shoulders.
Paul wrapped his free arm around her. “It’s all right,” he said. “I’ve got you.”
“Yes,” said Knife, smiling up at him. “You have.”
