Slowly, my strength returned. Enough so when Thorbjorn offered me a draught of bitter herbs, I wrinkled my nose and shook my head.
“Careful, little one. You’re not big enough to fight me.”
“I can refuse to drink.”
Thorbjorn c****d his head to the side, his beard hiding a grin. “I wouldn’t recommend it.”
“Why not?”
“He’ll punish you,” Rolf uncrossed his arms and rose from where he had been leaning against the wall in shadow. He’d been hanging around more and more, though I often didn’t notice him until he wanted me to. Even in man form, he seemed more like a wolf, a wary, waiting predator.
I gulped.
“Not harshly. And not in a way that will cause permanent harm.” Thorbjorn glared at Rolf. “You don’t have to scare her.”
“She’s not scared. She’s testing you, brother.”
“Oh, aye?” Thorb
