Chapter 20

Maxi turned around in surprise to see Riftan staring back at her. Just a moment ago, he had been standing some distance away. How had he approached her without her noticing?

"Were you going to leave without saying a word?"

"I d-didn't want to d-disturb you…"

"You're not disturbing us at all."

He took hold of her arm and turned around to look at the squires. The young men, drenched in sweat and red in the face, were looking at them with curiosity.

"We're taking a break!" Riftan bellowed. "We'll start again in an hour. Go and rest in the annex."

He then led Maxi away by the hand. Flustered, she turned to look at Rodrigo, but the steward stood with his hands politely clasped, making it clear that he did not intend to follow. Riftan did not look back as he led her along the path.

"Have you eaten?"