Stories from the War - Part 1: First Meeting

Part 3

"You look quite beautiful today," Byran said, glancing over at her.

Arinna waited for the inappropriate remark to follow. When Byran said nothing else, she glanced at him. He was focused on the road ahead. Which was good. They were cruising at nearly a hundred.

Beyond Byran lay rolling hills flashing by at a pace that should have felt far too quick. It definitely shouldn't make her grin. Sunlight warmed her face, falling through the open top of Byran's convertible. The world raced by, wind streaming around the car. But she and Byran were insulated from it, bathing in sunlight and music. It was so easy to forget herself.

"I figured if you were going to drag me to every politician, duke, and prince for tea, I'd better do some shopping."

"You should get a dress, something lightweight for the summer."

Ah, there was the comment. At least the thought. "Byran, I will never wear so much as a skirt around you."

She didn't even need to open her eyes to see the wolf's grin on his face.

"So do you want to know where I'm taking you?"

"No."

Byran darted a glance toward her. The car veered into the other lane.

"For God's sake, Bryan! If you are going to drive this fast, please keep us on the road." Arinna swore, pushing herself out of her relaxed pose.

The car oscillated once more before stabilizing in its hurtling orbit. A mile went by before Byran broke the silence."You are getting used to our game then?"

Arinna rolled her eyes at his lack apology. "By game, if you mean 'work related outing', then it is easier to find out where we are going when we get there than trying to get it out of you beforehand."

"I could be just taking you for a drive down the coast."

"In which case, this will be our last work related outing."

"Ah see, I think you are starting to enjoy this. No," Byran interrupted as Arinna began to respond. "I know the truth. It is good to see you are having fun. I won't tell. You said it is against the law."

Arinna's exasperated sigh held a hint of laughter. She knew it. Byran did too. He sang to the music as he floored the gas pedal.

When they pulled up at a gated compound half an hour later, Arinna realized this visit was different from the last five. She sat up, smoothing her blouse as she looked down the long drive.

"Where are we?"

Byran didn't stop at the gatehouse, but rolled through at a steady pace. The gate swung open a breath ahead of the car.

"Ambassador Eldridge's compound."

"The ambassador for the UK? You hang out with Ambassador Eldridge enough the guards don't stop you at the gate?"

"I'm friends with his son," Byran said with a grin.

"Of course you are," Arinna deadpanned. She frowned as a thought stirred. "He lives less than an hour from Madrid. We've been driving for over three."

"I took the long way. Scenic route as you say?"

She nearly hit him, but a worse realization occurred to her. "Please, Byran, don't tell me we showed up at an ambassador's house unannounced because you are friends with his son!"

"Okay, I will not tell you," he said, tossing her a wink as he opened his door.

She considered not getting out of the car. But Byran walked to her side, opening the door like she were royalty... or a prisoner. She felt like the latter. Byran waited for the space of a breath before he leaned closer, moving to see her face since Arinna sat staring straight ahead.