Wings of the Walker - CoraLee June Page 0,16

Ashleigh? I'm sure she has a special place in your heart. I want to make sure our trade is equal” Cyler grinned at me.

"I'm not sure I am willing to part with our Walker," Josiah muttered. Hope coursed through me, and I smiled.

"Oh, nonsense!" Linda interrupted. "I was just telling Josiah the other day that your peach orchids in Dormas are simply divine. What about a seasonal freight full of peaches this year? I think they would sell well here in Galla.”

Peaches. I was worth a shipment of peaches to this woman. My face fell.

"Is this acceptable to you, Josiah? Are you willing to part with your Walker for a crate of… peaches?" Cyler asked lightheartedly, but the phrasing made it abundantly clear. He wanted to know what my worth was. My heart thumped so loudly in my chest that my ears rang in time to my internal conflict. I wanted badly for Josiah to fight for me. Despite our socioeconomic differences, I wanted, no, needed to know that he felt even just an ounce of the affection I felt. —that my leaving would affect him in some way. But instead, he crushed my hopes and my heart with five little words.

"Increase your gold by a quarter," Josiah whispered.

Pain radiated through me in waves of disappointment, and I stifled a sob. Memories of my childhood danced in my mind.

Of Josiah holding my hand and whispering tall tales in my ear.

Of our late nights.

Of his smile.

Each memory was now overwhelmed by his betrayal.

"That is quite a steep cost for one Walker. For that amount, I could buy vaccinations for ten Walkers in the Zone” Cyler announced, ignoring me.

Meanwhile, I noticed Mistress Black looking at me with a menacing grin. It appeared my departure made her all too happy. Perhaps the feelings between Josiah and I were more apparent than we realized.

"I agree that it is a steep cost, but Ash isn't just any Walker, and I think you've realized that," Josiah announced.

I pleaded with my eyes for Josiah to show some sadness at the thought of me leaving. But, each passing moment that he remained quiet, each tick of the clock, made me further lose hope that the man I loved actually loved me back. How could he let me go?

"Well, I guess it’s a deal, then.” Cyler clapped his hands together. “Oh goodness, forgive my manners. I didn't even ask if the sweet gal wanted to come with me to Dormas,” Cyler added with a grin. He pulled my hand into his lap, forcing me to bend over so that we were eye level.

"So, what will it be, sweetheart? Dormas doesn't have the buildings or fancy technology of Galla. We live a simple life.” He brushed his rough hands over mine. “I’d love to have your cooking in my belly every night, and I think you could help me bridge relations with our new immigrants.” Cyler made it sound more like a marriage proposal than a request for me to move and serve his household.

Once again, my eyes found themselves glued to Josiah. I wanted to know that at least some part of him didn't want me to leave. His stony eyes connected with mine in a flash of fury. I briefly wondered if he was mad that I didn't immediately jump on the opportunity to stay. Josiah couldn’t risk his position in the Galla province by turning down such a lucrative offer. For the first time in my decade and a half at their home, I held the power. I could see Josiah's opinions on the matter so clearly written across his face. But truthfully, the decision was made when he refused to fight for me.

"It would be an honor to serve your household, Master Black," I whispered.

"Call me Cyler, babe," he whispered back. If he hadn't told me of his intentions, I would have questioned his endearing nickname, but I knew this was all a game for him. I just prayed I wouldn't end up losing more than I could handle in the end.

Mistress Black coughed, forcing Cyler to let go of my hands.

"Well, I must admit I'm quite jealous of you, brother. I was looking forward to my new home with such delicious meals," she joked politely.

Linda jumped in. "Oh Jules, do you mind if I call you Jules? I can assure you that we will have only the best food for you here in the Stonewell home." She beamed with pride which made me swallow the