Eva walked at the back of the group by the teacher, looking down. Lorne had not seen her for a couple of weeks, except for brief glances, but he was pleased to see Nika had persuaded her to go to school. Lorne straightened his doublet and swiped a bit of dirt from his sleeve. He strode across the street, and Eva looked up, probably at the sound of his boots. She turned to the teacher, but the woman was talking to someone else now. Lorne smiled, thinking they could start again if he could only watch his mouth. Eva needed friends, and Lorne had determined that he would simply have to learn to keep his feelings in check. He knew Eva would not be the only girl to attract him between now and the day Davin married, and he had to be strong and put his prince before himself. Thoughts of Davin helped him smile. The prince had warmed to him so much lately, showing his love in numerous ways. Lorne saw happiness in their future, even without knowing who would be their bride one day. “I see you’ve been to school.
