Castiel’s mouth dropped open. The audacity of this woman! He’d just saved her life.
“Right. You were absolutely going to beat those men who were not only bigger than you, but armed.”
“Yes. I would’ve. You got in my way.”
“The way I saw it, Lady Demina, you were pinned. Those men were going to kidnap you or worse if I hadn’t stepped in.”
“I do not need you or anyone else to step in and save me. I can handle myself quite fine.”
“Yes, all 5 feet of you. Next time, I won’t help you. You can die for all I care.”
“Good, I don’t want you to care.”
“Why do have to be so blasted frustrating?!”
“Me?! Why are you so annoying?! I didn’t ask for your help, Castiel!”
“I know...I just...Don’t want anything to happen to you.”
“Really? You just told me that you didn’t care if I died! Make up your mind. You are worse than a woman!”
“Yeah...well...!”
Cassiopeia coughed interrupting their glaring match.
“This has been very interesting but it is getting dark so shouldn’t we be getting to the palace?” she asked.
“Who are you?” Demina asked, eyes narrowing.
“This is Cassiopeia. She’s a friend. She’s also a healer.”
Demina looked her up and down, annoyed at the spurt of jealousy in her heart. Cassi grinned.
“It’s nice to meet you,” she said, holding out her hand. Demi nodded, ignoring the outstretched hand. Cassi’s smile faded and she retracted her hand, frowning. She thought a lady would have more manners.
“Don’t worry about it, Cassiopeia. Demi isn’t a very...friendly...person,” Castiel said.
“Why are you here, Castiel?”
“I’ll explain when we get back to the palace,” he answered. They walked out of the alley and he lifted her onto his horse, ignoring her protests. He made sure Cassiopeia mounted before climbing on his horse behind Demina. As annoyed as she was, Demi couldn’t help but lean back into his powerful chest. She laid her head back the clatter of horse’s hooves lulling her into a peaceful sleep. Castiel kept his eyes on the streets around them, making sure no one was there to jump them. He glanced down and smiled softly. She was too cute. The steeds whinnied and Demi opened her eyes sleepily but they closed again. She was so cute. Both of her arms lay on her stomach, rising and falling in time to her breathing. Her hair was messed up and curling around her face. He shifted and was surprised that she didn't stir. She must have been exhausted. He smiled, gently kissing her head. He wished the ride to the palace wasn’t so short. He sighed. He had to make sure that she stayed safe. She stirred, turning towards him, her eyes opening sleepily again.
"Cas?"
"Hey, beautiful."
"Are we there yet?" she murmured. He chuckled when her eyes closed again and she didn't wait for a reply.
"Not yet," he whispered, "Soon. Just sleep."
Cassiopeia watched the exchange with a knowing smile. She’d obviously found the answer to her question....it was so sweet.
