Chapter 86

"Did something happen?" Eleanor's voice was laced with concern, and it showed in the way her eyes went wide, the way she could not wait for Conaan to come back up to her. It looked like she had only changed dresses to a slightly more conservative one.

He turned, a slight command to Brandon in his actions, before he wore a small smile. "Of course not. Brandon is simply worried for me."

She raised a brow. "I do not believe you would intentionally lie to me."

He nodded, his smile a little bigger. "Sure, Eleanor. I would not lie to you for no reason."

He slowly covered the distance, his eyes searching hers. She gulped nervously, then nodded.

"I will choose to believe you."

He said nothing, his fingers giving hers a small squeeze. "Thank you. I will take a much needed bath now."

She nodded and watched as he started to leave, his steps slow. Silently, she watched him climb the stairs one after the other, a small sigh escaping her lips.

He was doin