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“Fine. Full.” He patted his belly then pointed at the high ceiling. “Do you really get to live in this castle?”
“Well, it comes with a big job, but yes. And you can visit any time you want.”
“Can I bring my mother and sisters?”
My heart leaped out to him, as it had that day we’d visited the struggling family. I hoped today marked the beginning of better times for them and so many others. Then I corrected myself. I wouldn’t just hope. I would work hard to make that a reality for all the people of Nottingham.
“You can all visit anytime,” I assured him. “Now, if you don’t mind, could you please make sure the cook doesn’t mistake Nosewise for a deer and cook him?”
Tom laughed and ran off to play with the huge Great Dane.
“Enjoy the party!” Tuck called, then chuckled at a couple nestled closely at a side table, totally oblivious to the crowds. “I’ll say they’re enjoying it.”
I laughed, because that was Bess and Robert, gazing lovingly into each other’s eyes.
“I’m glad to see Bess with a good man,” I whispered. “She deserves it.”
Tuck laughed. “A month ago, I would have told you Robert wasn’t up to the job. But I have to say, he’s grown up. Maybe being a husband and stepfather is just what he needs to finish that process.” Then he broke out laughing.
“What?” I tilted my head.
Tuck grinned. “I bet there are plenty of people who would say the same about me.” He scratched his chest ruefully. “I just hope I’m up to the job.”
I patted his arm. “Now that you’re in the right job — yes, absolutely. And remember, you have me.”
His eyes sparkled. “Speaking of which…”
He touched his heart, sending a shot of warmth through my body — and his, judging by the way his cheeks colored.
“Speaking of having me, you mean?” I teased in a husky whisper.
He pulled me flush against his body, whispering, “Yes. I’d like a replay of that unicorn bond, please. And maybe another bite.”
When he nuzzled my neck, my pulse spiked.
“I’m sure our guests can take care of themselves while we take care of official business,” he went on, kissing my neck. “Besides, tomorrow is our big day.”
I laughed, slipping my hand inside his shirt. “I thought today was our big day.”
He shook his head while inching his hands over my rear. “Tomorrow, we start our new jobs in earnest. And you know what they say…”
I waited. This, I had to hear.
“The key to good leadership is planning for a little me time.”
I laughed, then corrected him. “Us time.”
“A lifetime,” he whispered, pulling me toward the stairs.
Epilogue
ROBYNNE
For about an hour after the king declared, I believe a feast is in order, I moved in a daze. So many emotions rushed through me at the same time that they tangled and stopped like sheep stuck at a narrow gate. All I really registered was Daniel’s hand firmly around mine — punctuated by claps on my back from well-wishers. Not just from Willa, John, or the Merry Men, but from townsfolk, too.
“Robynne Hood! Robynne Hood!” they cheered.
Which was nice. Very nice. Right?
