Starbound: A Starstruck Novel Read Online Free PDF Page A

you will need a real Costanta …that is, a properly trained Bodyguard. An adult. Which would make explaining young Stuart’s constant presence a bit awkward.”
    I turned accusingly to Mrs. O. “Did you know about this? You told me they were okay with Rigel being my Bodyguard! And last night you didn’t say a word about him not coming.”
    She shrugged apologetically. “I did try to plead your case, dear, but those more experienced in such matters feel strongly—”
    “I don’t care,” I snapped, anger finally crowding out panic. “We had a deal! You all voted on it.”  
    “We did promise,” Nara said to the others. “Suppose Rigel goes along in a different capacity? He could pretend to be young Molly O’Gara’s boyfriend…”
    Ew. It would be better than him not going at all, but— “That wouldn’t give him any excuse to be near me unless I’m with Molly all the time. And I won’t be, once we get to Mars, will I?”
    “If Molly is named your Chomseireach ? Then he might have reason—” Nara began tentatively.  
    “Handmaids aren’t allowed such visitors, you know that,” Kyna broke in. “Nor can I see him going as the Sovereign’s Bodyguard. That requires very specific training, which—”  
    “He can train before we leave,” I insisted. “He’s a really fast learner, and he’s way more motivated to protect me than anybody else ever could be. Besides, my Bodyguard should be someone I trust completely and I trust Rigel more than anyone on Earth—or Mars.”  
    When they still hesitated, I used the only real bargaining chip I had. “I won’t go to Mars without Rigel. Period. If you guys won’t honor your side of our deal, I won’t honor mine. Go find yourselves another Sovereign.”
    I glared around at them all, waiting, just like I’d done back in December when I’d first thrown out that ultimatum. And, just like then, they caved. To my massive relief, each of them eventually nodded. Some were clearly reluctant, but all that mattered was that they agreed.
    “Very well.” Connor’s tone made it obvious he didn’t like it. “Though once she reaches Mars, at least one more Bodyguard must be assigned, perhaps more. Until then, I suppose young Stuart will do.” Then, to Shim, “Can he be trained in time, do you think?”
    “I’ll see to it that he is. In fact, I will leave for Jewel tomorrow and remain there until they leave for Ireland to oversee his training myself. The Sovereign is correct that he will be highly motivated, both to learn and to protect her. Their bond—”
    “Yes, yes, we know.” Kyna was the only one with the nerve to interrupt Shim. “But that very bond makes Rigel Stuart our biggest security risk. If there’s anyone she will be tempted to confide in, it is he.”
    Shim inclined his head. “A fair point, and one you’ve made often. Excellency, I must again stress the importance of keeping all information pertaining to the Grentl absolutely to yourself. Should Rigel learn anything about that aspect of your mission, he will not accompany you to Mars in any capacity. I assure you that between Lili O’Gara and myself, we will know if that stricture is violated. Will that content you?” This last was to Kyna, who reluctantly nodded.  
    I remembered suddenly what Rigel had told me about his grandfather practically reading his mind sometimes. In fact, I’d experienced that with Shim myself more than once. Between him and Mrs. O, they’d definitely know if I told Rigel.
    My heart in my throat, battling between relief and dread that I’d screw this up, I nodded. “I understand. Thank you.”

C HAPTER 4

    Jewel (pop. 5,013) : town in north-central Indiana noted for corn, artisan jewelry and annual Jewel Jewelry Festival

    The next day at school I worked harder than ever before to shield my thoughts from Rigel. What I couldn’t hide was the fact that I was shielding my thoughts.
    You’re really worrying me, M, he told me halfway through first period.