Page 19

His features so handsome that nary a maiden

Can resist his smile, their hearts all laden.”

I bite back a laugh. “What on earth are you singing?”

“Something I just made up.” He grins. “Do you like it?”

Before I can answer, he continues.

“With eyes of amber, his tail so sleek,

The bravest hero—though modest and meek!”

I burst out laughing. “Modest and meek? I don’t think so,” I tease.

He gasps, feigning offense even as his eyes shine with mischief. “You wound me, my Lady. Do you not like my singing?” He tips up his chin in a mock imperious look. “I believe I have a rather exceptional voice, if I do say so myself.”

“Perhaps.” I laugh and decide to tease him in return. “Though your songwriting leaves much to be desired.”

“And yet, you're smiling.” He arches a playful brow. “Admit it, you're thoroughly charmed by my song and my singing voice.”

“Hardly.” I bite back a grin. “I'm merely amused by your lack of musical talent.”

His mouth falls open in pretend shock before he heaves a dramatic sigh. “You’ve wounded my artistic soul, and I fear I may never recover.”

“I have a feeling you’ll be just fine,” I joke in return.

He chuckles, the rich sound vibrating through his chest, warming something deep inside me.

Finik peeks his head out of my dress pocket and my heart stops as he leaps onto a nearby tree. Panic spirals through me as I realize just how high up we still are.

Ren’s singing had been so distracting, I’d almost forgotten what we were doing. But now that I’ve been reminded, I bury my face in his chest and tighten my hold on him, shivering.

“It’s all right.” He nuzzles the top of my head. “We’re almost there. I promise I have you, Rapunzel.”

Despite his soothing words, my heart is still racing.

“Would you like to hear the rest of the song?” he asks, a teasing lilt in his voice.

Unable to speak, I nod against him.

He draws in a deep breath and begins singing again.

“Through moonlit woods, he bravely strides,

adventure following where'er he glides.

A wink, a grin, and a roguish glance,

leaves every heart in a dizzying trance.

Oh, clever fox, handsome and brave—”

Soft laughter escapes me, my anxiety slowing melting away as I listen to his ridiculously funny song.

“Are you laughing at me again?” he asks in mock offense.

I chuckle. “Don’t forget to mention how modest and meek the clever fox is.”