The Stillness of the Sky Read Online Free Page B

where I’m going. Cloth such as this isn’t meant for traveling in the woods.”
    “Traveling?” She frowned at me. “Where are you going? Why can’t you stay?”
    Smiling, I knelt in front of her. “This is your family, little one, not mine. I’d never assume to burden strangers with my care. I’m too old for such things.”
    Mrs. Minkov stepped up beside us and considered me. “You’d not be a burden were you in our employ. Prudence would do well with a companion, and you’ve earned our trust for certain. She’s a curious little thing and needs someone with her to guide her safely in her explorations of the world. If you’d consider it, you’d be most welcome to come with us to Torell as a permanent addition to our staff.”
    I stared up at her, unsure of how to respond. While it was tempting, I had no desire to dress in fine clothes and play at society when I would never truly be a part of such a world. And when Prudence was grown, what would become of me then?
    She smiled as I stood. “But, I think you have other things in mind for yourself.” Prudence’s mother strode across the dark wood floors, her steps light with years of practiced grace. She opened a tall wardrobe and rummaged through to the back, producing a soft, cream-colored tunic and finely tailored breeches. “As one who’s fought to follow her own dreams,” she said, offering the clothing, “I’d never think to stop another from following theirs.”
    Twice in as many days now, I’d been offered employment and had it taken back in the same breath. This offer was even greater than the last, and still they thought it unworthy of me? I couldn’t help wondering if the world had severely overestimated my intelligence and ability.
    “Prudence, dear,” Mrs. Minkov said. “Go and fetch my brown boots from my dressing chamber, the ones that come to my knees. I think they’ll serve Jack well on her travels, and I can buy another pair easy enough when we’re home again.”
    The girl hurried off, and I watched her go, still lost in my own thoughts.
    “You’ll at least stay for the noon meal, I hope,” her mother said with a twinkle in her eye. “Dreams need more to run on than an empty stomach.”

Chapter 3

    “Remember, if you’re ever in Torell, please come visit,” Mr. Minkov said as he shook my hand for the hundredth time. “I could never repay you for your help with Prudence, so no favor is too great to ask.”
    “It was nothing, truly,” I said. “I’m only glad she’s home safe.”
    Mrs. Minkov eased him away and embraced me. “Nevertheless, the kindness you showed her would be offered by few. You’ve gifted us our only child back safely.” She pulled back and smiled at me. “Wherever your travels take you, I hope you meet with nothing but greatness in the world.”
    The wind rushed out of my lungs as Prudence flung her arms around my waist. “I wish you’d stay, Jack. I’ll miss you!”
    I chuckled and returned the sentiment with a gentle hug. “Be careful not to wander off after any more deer. Their trails are tricky things.” Tilting her head up, I winked at her. “But don’t worry, I’ll see you again, I’m sure.”
    Hefting my pack, which now held an apple, some dried meat, and two fresh rolls on top of my own sparse possessions, I turned and headed back to the main road.
    “Jack!” Prudence’s father called after me. “Best keep to the westerly road. It’s a bit more rocky, but the journey more beautiful.”
    I waved in acknowledgment and set out once more. As I walked, my mind wandered, my thoughts of where I might go next or who I would meet. Really, the possibilities were endless, but a little overwhelming because there were so many. With no solutions presenting themselves, I once again took up the matter of the mysterious beans. I wondered if maybe there was someone who might help me find out where they’d come from, or what they might grow into if planted. There were always rumors of witches