Chapter 174

IN THE KITCHEN THE COOK, flushed from the heat of the massive ovens, frowned at Ignatius.

'She should be eating something!'

'Can't you add an egg to it?'

The low smooth tones of Leseach's voice set Ignatius' teeth on edge. He refused to turn and acknowledge her but nodded to the cook.

'Yes! That'll make it better.'

The cook grumbled, not fully satisfied but set to making the drink while he and the Northerner watched. Knowing she stood just behind him caused a knot of muscles between his shoulder blades to tighten and he twisted to glare at the blonde alien, hating the way she could nearly look him in the eyes with her extreme height.

'I don't believe I require your assistance.'

Her queerly striped eyes regarded him flatly.

'Rashid suggested we discuss the sleeping arrangements with guarding the Princess. I understand you have specific orders from the Archduchess to watch over her?'

Relief at not having to demand the right or create an explanation for sleeping in Catherine'