The Bronze Mage (32 page)

Tabitha, in turn, swore to honor and love James, body, soul and spirit, to the best of her ability for the rest of her life. They were exhorted to seek and grant forgiveness readily; to believe the best of each other; to defend each other in public and private; and to always be faithful in affection and action. Then it was over. The kiss at the end was reserved for unions of preference.

Adding King Fenril, Queen Lynnette, Princess Anya and Crown Prince Cameron to the party improved the ambience at dinner over that at lunch. Melanie and Anya were happy to catch up. Cameron had a million questions to ask Jerrold about the role of a crown prince and the situations they each faced. The two sets of parents also found much to discuss. Lively conversation swirled around the table, occasionally lapping against the silence of the bridal pair.

Tabitha's nerves were somewhat settled by the more relaxed atmosphere around her. When she thought no one was looking, she smiled at James. He returned a small smile, but it didn't reach his eyes. She hoped he was just being careful of her family.

At the end of the meal, she and James thanked their hosts and bid farewell to her family. The others were likely to socialize much longer, but this was the traditional time for the bridal couple to make their exit. She laid her hand on James's arm and allowed him to lead her to their suite.

Her mouth grew drier and her palms sweatier the farther they walked. Part of her was anxious, part...well, more than curious. She wanted him. It had to be safe to admit that now, at least to herself. He was handsome. He was certainly powerful. Whenever they were alone, he made her feel special. Surely, he must love her to worry about her so much. He'd rearranged his whole life just to take care of her. But nothing about their interactions had ever been simple. Tabitha had a nagging fear that a few ceremonial words weren't likely to change that.