Page 65 of Adversary to the Villain

“We won’t know that if she steps on us,” Trystan gritted.

“FEE FI FO FUM,” the giant boomed again, ripping up rocks and dirt.

“Who is fee fi fo fum?” Evie asked, shrieking when the foot came down right next to a small house.

Trystan pinched the bridge of his nose, then muttered, “Why don’t you ask?”

The giant picked up a large boulder and threw it so hard, it toppled several trees near theirs. “Oh my. Maybe we should wait five minutes.”

Trystan gave her a dubious glare. “You think a rampaging giant’s mental breakdown will be done in five minutes?”

Evie blinked. “I usually finish my breakdowns in four.”

“Sage!” Trystan moaned, then jolted when the door to a house on the edge of the tree line flew open. A beautiful woman stood in the entryway, long, flowing blond locks pulled back with a simple ribbon.

“Come, you two! Quickly!”

There was no thinking, just running full speed for shelter, toward their blonde savior.

When the door shut behind them, the woman’s blue eyes softened. “Oh, you poor dears. Worry not—my home is enchanted to calm fraying nerves. You both appear to have many. Let me get you some tea and perhaps a snack?” Chocolate chip cookies were cooling on a rack, still soft from the oven.

Trystan took a cookie off the tray, shrugging when Evie looked at him, then raising one eyebrow when he saw she was trying to privately convey a message.

Evie was disturbed by a feeling brewing low in her belly. An instinct that said they should have taken their chances with the giant.

But there was no way to explain why she would feel that way.

In a house…made of sweets.

Chapter 30

Trystan

For a very long time, Trystan Maverine had trusted no one. He would watch every move of those around him, waiting for someone to betray him. Anyone could be a threat. Anyone could do wrong. However, he didnotextend these same principles to baked goods.

But by the look upon Sage’s face, he feared he might have to. “What is it?” he murmured quietly.

“We should leave.”

“Why?”

“Oh, say you won’t leave just yet,” their host interrupted hopefully. “I’m Greta. And I never have guests.” She placed a hand on Trystan’s shoulder, smiling.

“Perhaps because you have an angry giant as a greeter?” Sage guessed, uncharacteristically short. Taking Trystan’s arm with a sharp tug, she said, “I’m sorry, but we really can’t stay.” Sage got as far as touching the doorknob before she yelped in pain.

Trystan grabbed her hand, which was now branded with a red burn. “What is this?”

Greta folded her arms, scowling. “Why do you spurn my generosity?”

“Because it causes blisters,” Sage deadpanned. “Now open the door.”

“I’m afraid I cannot.” Greta flipped her blond hair over her shoulder, all pretense of hospitality now gone. “What will you do, Villain?” It was the first time Trystan had heard that word…and it wasn’t aimed at him.

She was asking Evangelina.

And Evangelina didn’t appear bothered by it in the slightest. In fact, she grinned, peering up at him with her other hand held to her chest. “No one’s ever said it tome.”

“You never forget the first time,” Trystan agreed sedately.