The day had almost given up to the approaching evening. In the dim light filtering through the dense canopy of trees, Royston's eyes focused entirely on the smallish female whose back was as straight as possible, showing an elegance that did not match the scenery; standing there, his breath hitched.
His eyes widened, and a flicker of shock rippled across his face. He had not expected her to say that, and in this shadowy part of the woods, where the air was thick with mystery, a flash of fear touched his heart for the very first time since he had first met her a few months prior. He was so shocked that his brain had turned to mush.
Never once did she raise her voice, but a terror rang underneath it. Royston was sure that he did not want to offend her in any way, but he did not wish to give Shelby up. Never! Royston had come a long way to even consider that! Still, he did not understand what she meant by he couldn't handle Shelby.
