Merlin accepted the staff with casual grace, as if it were his due. Taliesin stepped back, allowing Merlin his place beside Mim. She took a short breath, stomach pinching as she detected the scent of the forest—the freshness of moss clinging to an oak. Well, he had been carrying timber. Mim shook her head, chiding herself. Glancing at her sideways, Merlin said, “You’re looking lovely this morning, Mim.” He held her gaze for a beat and her cheeks flushed. He was teasing her. Of course he was.
