12
The next morning, Argolicus found Severa and Pup in front of the villa as he was riding away for the day. Her head was down and the white dog nuzzled her face.
“You two have made friends.”
“Yes, he’s learning tricks. Watch.”
She brought her arm up. Pup followed the movement with his eyes. She lowered her hand. Pup immediately lay down.
“Now watch. This is his new trick.”
She turned her hand sideways. Pup rolled over on the ground.
“We’re off. Have a good day.”
Severa looked up from the dog, her face beamed. “I like it here.”
He looked at her eager face, the fresh cheeks, and the innocent delight and shuddered at what happened to girls sold as slaves.
“I’m glad you are here.”
Argolicus looked at Nikolaos riding behind him. “Do you have your note equipment?”
Nikolaos started t
