Crow gave Penelope an estranged look, “I’d much rather spend time with a beautiful woman than share the company of two men.” He met her gaze searchingly. She was definitely distracted, but he couldn’t tell what it was that held her attention. Perhaps he could coax the information out if he got her to relax a bit? It was worth a try. 

Crow turned walked over to a nearby tree, laying down in the shade. He closed his eyes. It was strange, but in a way, he didn’t mind that Penelope was still on guard. After spending the last two days sitting around inside of a wagon, he felt lethargic. Of course, he wouldn’t pass up a chance to run if it arose, but he didn’t feel like putting the energy into making the chance happen just yet. Unless an opportunity made itself apparent, he could handle one more day with the knights and then take his leave in the outer villages.

“Come over here,” Crow said after a moment, opening his eyes again and patting the grass beside him. He waited for Penelope sit down before he went on, “You’re tense. I’m going to teach you how to relax.” He smiled up at her. “Resting is a valuable skill you will use throughout your life, so pay attention. I want you to lay down here and close your eyes—or just look up at the sky if you still don’t trust me.” He shrugged. “Whatever suits your fancy.”

He didn’t have any particular plot to go along with the little exercise. It would be nice if Penelope fell asleep, but he didn’t expect the knight to do anything so careless. If anything, he found that he was earnestly beginning to enjoy her company, though he would never admit it aloud. He might even miss her when he went back to the outer villages. He never dreamed he would think something like that about a knight. He smiled to himself. It was a strange thought.