THE TWO KNIGHTS that followed us to the garden behind the castle finally left after Knox sent them a signal. With just the two of us standing awkwardly, trying not to face one another, I could feel the uncomfortable silence slowly grow intense. It was as if I was not at ease. Growing restless, I became a mess. I swallowed nervously as I took a chance of bravery and addressed Knox first.
“Listen, Knox. About the other day,” I licked my lips. “I know it looked bad, but, uh, it’s not you, okay? I don’t want you to think that I—I ran because of you. It’s just that, I mean, all of it is just happening too fast. I didn’t expect you to do that, whatever that was, and I freaked out—“
“You’re freaking out, Marigold.” Knox grabbed my shoulders. He gazed softly into my eyes to will me to calm down.
