He chuckled, his focus on the ceiling. “I’m fairly certain I’m not the doting-husband type either.”

While neither wanted this marriage, at least they both cared for and sought what was best for their people. United in that, they could learn to be friends, couldn’t they? And since neither was seeking love, they wouldn’t have to worry about losing their hearts.

Ava entered carrying a mug. She handed it to Reid, who begrudgingly drank the nasty contents.

“I hate to ask this of you,” Dexter said, “but I need you to put the fire out. If anyone is searching for us, I don’t want them to see the smoke and come here.”

“Of course,” Ava replied. “I’ll get my husband to toss dirt on it.”

Once she left, Reid said, “I think Eldon is trying to kill all contenders for the throne since he knows he’s not the true king.”

“That makes sense.”

“He won’t stop until he succeeds.”

He patted her hand. “Then we’ll just have to stop him before he does.”

“How do you suggest we do that?”

“I’ll figure it out later. Right now, I’m going to close my eyes and rest.”

Reid supposed she should do the same.

Reid woke up to find Dexter staring at her. Before she could say anything, Ava patted Reid’s shoulder.

“It’s time to remove the charcoal and apply the healing salve.”

“Okay.” And Reid needed to use the privy. If there was one.

Ava used a soft cloth to wipe off the charcoal. Then she applied a cool salve to Reid’s back. “All finished.”

“Thank you.” Reid twisted away from Dexter and sat up, clutching her shirt to her chest. She quickly put it on. Ava handed Reid her tunic, so she slid that on as well.

“Now that you’re dressed, I’ll go get my husband,” Ava said. “Then we can prepare something for you to eat.”

When she exited, Dexter said, “We’ll stay here tonight. But I want to leave first thing tomorrow morning. We need to get home in case there’s been an attack on the palace.”

Reid understood his concern, though she didn’t think the assassins would be able to get anywhere near the palace.

Rick and Ava entered. They started rummaging around the kitchen area, pulling out plates, bread, and carrots.

“Without a fire to cook, the meal is going to be meager,” Rick said. “I’m sorry we don’t have something suitable for a prince.”

“Anything will be fine,” Dexter replied. “I’m grateful for your help, and I don’t care what we eat. Your hospitality and kindness are more than we could have hoped for.”

“Is there a privy?” Reid asked, tucking her two daggers into her pants.

“Yes. It’s around back,” Ava replied.

“Rick, can you please escort Lady Reid?” Dexter said.