“Alegan, I really must protest,” Jari said as he stumbled along Alegan’s side. “Catli is going to stretch my hide if he knows I helped you do this.”
Alegan turned left along the beach as Jari pointed and talked. His new friend was a serious, but helpful, man and had been more than willing to lead Alegan to a secluded section of beach when he asked. Jari just agreed and didn’t bother to find out why until they were actually on the beach. After this, Alegan was pretty sure his friend would find out what the favor was before he agreed.
“I will intercede on your behalf, all right?” Alegan tried on a playful grin. It sagged at the edges, but that was a start.
“Catli will ask why I didn’t find out what you were up to first.” The grumble was half serious, like Jari just figured out the same th
