Guarded Treasure

by Mae Lovette

“Mr. Pimsley, I think you’ll find I’m a rather well-educated and intelligent woman, and you might be surprised how much I understand the things I say.”

He was carrying his own duffle as well as her suitcase, which was so heavy he wondered if she’d brought a collection of decorative anvils. “What in the world do you have packed in this suitcase, bricks?” “Books.” “Ah.” “I said I’d carry my own suitcase,” she mumbled, wanting to avoid making a habit of being indebted. “Nonsense, what are man servants for?” He looked at her with clear eyes and half a smile.

“The ambitious librarian with something to prove and the petty scoundrel with nothing to lose.”

There might be nothing on earth he could bring himself to deny her. If she asked for the moon, he’d search for a ladder.

“Ben, have you told the crew not to look at me? Why on earth would you say such a thing?” He stood with his hands in his pockets, regarding her. “I didn’t tell them not to look at you. I told them what would happen if they did. It sounds like they chose to conduct themselves wisely.”

“You better believe I’ll shoot anything that comes near you, without hesitation. I don’t care if I blast the Rosetta Stone to gravel in the crossfire.”

“The secret to getting everything you want in life… having a big strong man get it for you.”

“My love is like a rising star, with beautiful eyes for looking and sweet lips for kissing. Your hand is in my hand, my body trembles with joy, my heart is exalted because we walk together.”

“Edie,” he smiled, brushing dust from her cheek. “You’re the treasure I found in the Cursed Tomb of Argo. All I need to get safely out of this place… is you.”