Chapter Twenty-Nine 

Melinda's jaw dropped. She started to argue then shut her mouth. She could do this. She'd carried her sisters piggyback numerous times. Of course, he was a lot bigger and probably weighed a hundred pounds more than them. But she would do it.

She held out a hand.

"I have your word? If I carry Lord Falconburg out of here, you will allow us and his men to go free? No one will bother us?"

The man looked amused. "I give you my word." John grinned, taking her hand in his. "'Twill be a sight to see. We have an accord."

"Yes, we have an accord."

Melinda walked over to James and looked him up and down. She turned around and bent down, knees spread apart.

"Put your arms around my neck."

She could feel the anger rolling off James.

"Not now," she whispered. "Wait until we're out of here."

He wrapped his arms around her neck, the tension rolling off him.

Melinda reached behind her, pulling her arms under his legs and clasping her hands together. She slowly straightened, hoping she wouldn't fall over. He'd never forgive her. Melinda wobbled back and forth, afraid she was going to drop him. But she found her center and stood. Well, sort of.

"What have you been eating? Rocks? You weigh as much as an elephant."

John and his men laughed. Renly looked like he wanted to join in, but knew if he did he would face James in the lists later.

James whispered in her ear, "Kill me now."

"Whatever. Look at all the gold I saved you."

"Your necklace. 'Twas valuable?"

Melinda limped out of the clearing, focusing on taking one small step after another. She panted, her knees and legs shaking. Hold it together. A little longer and you'll be safe. They were almost out of the camp and to safety.

"The necklace belonged to my aunt. She died the day Lucy went missing. It was all I had left of her."

"I am sorry. You should not give it up. Put me down. We will find another way."

"No. Aunt Pittypat would think it exciting and romantic for Robin Hood to wear her necklace."

James scoffed. "He is not Robin Hood."

"Perhaps not. Think of what a great story we have to tell. Living in the woods with outlaws. Ransomed for a charmed talisman. Very romantic."

Melinda swore she could feel James rolling his eyes.

"You read too many of these romance books you tell me about. I am grateful."

She wanted to laugh but didn't have any extra breath to spare. Renly and the other knights followed behind. At least, she thought it was them. She couldn't risk looking back. Melinda was afraid she'd topple over if she didn't keep going, one foot in front of the other. Breathe.

They were almost to the edge of the wood when John called out.

"You win, lady. 'Tis too late to travel. Stay with us tonight. You have my word: no harm will come to you, Lord Falconburg, or his men."

Melinda let James down and stumbled. He caught her.

"Thank you. I think you're made of solid steel."

"Perhaps."

She'd love to soak in a hot tub for about an hour.

James called out, "We accept your hospitality."

John clapped his hands. "Let us feast, drink, and dance."