Free Bridge of Mist and Fog by nikki broadwell Page B

Gunnar knew Wolf was on that boat. But a second later the druid shut him out.
    “Why didn’t you tell me?” he yelled.
    Gunnar grew serious. “He’s part of it, Fehin. Wolf is part of it.”
    “And what is it, exactly?”
    “I don’t know. If I did I’d tell you.”
    “So I’m supposed to put up with Wolf and at the same time complete some destiny I don’t understand?”
    “You can manage it. I’ve seen what you can do.”
    “What about Airy? She’s at risk as long as my brother’s around.”
    Gunnar sighed. “She’s not some sniveling weak-willed girl. She’s the daughter and great granddaughter of two very powerful women and coming into her own. Who knows what she can do?”
    “She’s scared and so am I.”
    “That’s the proper response to danger, Fehin. You two make a good team.”
    “So basically you’re not going to help me.”
    “There’s nothing I can do.” The druid stared at him for a long moment and then softened. “Have faith in yourself and the girl, Fehin. I do.”
    And with that statement the druid disappeared.

14
    “It would only be for a short time, Storm. Did you hear what I said about Wolf?”
    Airy’s roommate appeared very put out, her frown drilling into Airy from where Storm paced. Outside the sun was shining and Airy longed to be out in it. The small room felt claustrophobic and stuffy. Why didn’t any of these rooms have windows that opened?
    “How do I know this isn’t some ploy for the two of you to have sex?” her roommate demanded. Storm pressed her lips together. “I can’t understand why you’re attracted to the little geek.”
    Airy ignored the geek comment, focusing on the sex part, which she found embarrassing and uncalled for. “There’s no way we’re going to have sex here or anywhere else!”
    “Really? I saw you two kissing.”
    Airy frowned. This could be one of two things: either she was a lesbian or she didn’t have a boyfriend and was jealous that Airy did. She was betting on the latter but it wouldn’t surprise her if her roommate were gay. She knew all about this after listening in on several conversations in the lunchroom. It seemed to be a popular topic of conversation. It was the same where she came from but mostly what others chose to do or not do was ignored unless it turned into some kind of a problem. And then the druids would be called to settle differences. “We like each other. And yes, I admit I’m attracted to him. But sex? If it ever happens it will be somewhere private, believe me.”
    Storm let out a long sigh. “You do know that if you’re caught both of you could be expelled.”
    “We know. But I’m telling you, that brother of his is a monster.”
    Storm raised her eyebrows and then smiled wickedly. “Do you think I’d like him? I could take him off your hands if he’s as burly as you say. Is he cute?”
    Airy shook her head in frustration. “I couldn’t see him since he was behind me when he knocked me out. But please, don’t let me stop you from dating a psychopath.”
    “According to Fehin. Maybe that description is just a bunch of bullshit.”
    “Fehin wouldn’t lie about this. I trust him. Now what is your answer?”
    “Just at night?”
    Airy nodded. “He’ll have to come in and out before the hall monitor comes by.”
    “Okay, but if I don’t like the arrangement I want it to stop immediately.”
    “Thanks, Storm.” Airy threw her arms around the other girl, nearly knocking her down.
    “Good god, girl. Take it easy!” Storm yelled, pulling away. “I’m not a hugger as you might have guessed had you been paying attention.”
    “Sorry. I’m just so grateful.”
    “You won’t be if I decide to kick him out. Remember your promise.”
    Airy gave her a quick wave before hurrying out the door and down the stairwell to where Fehin was waiting. “She said yes!”
    Fehin grinned and then took her hand. “Let’s take a walk in the park now that your tempests are gone.”
    “They weren’t my