Page. Tamora Pierce

people like that pursue their loves privately,’ replied Neal. ‘Manly fellows like Joren think it’s a deadly insult to be accused of wanting other men.’

      ‘That doesn’t make sense,’ Kel said.

      ‘It’s still an insult on this side of the Emerald Ocean, my dear. Now, if I may shave before our bread-and-water feast?’

      Kel eyed Neal’s cheeks and chin. ‘You don’t need to.’

      Neal sighed. ‘I live in hope, as the priest said to the princess. If you don’t mind?’

      Kel went back to her room, shaking her head.