Cassia Turns Down the Position

Fabia’s offer hung in the air between them.

“It’s a generous offer,” Cassia said, her voice steadier than she felt. “Truly. And I appreciate you showing me… everything.”

Fabia’s green eyes held on Cassia's. “Then you’ll take the job?”

Cassia shook her head. “No. Thank you for the offer, Fabia, but I'm afraid I can't.”

The older futa frowned. “Twenty denarii is not enough?”

“It’s not that.” Cassia glanced back toward the barn, where a muffled whinny drifted through the open door. “I'm just- I’m just not the right futa for this type of work.”

Fabia studied her for a long moment, then nodded slowly. “Fair enough. I can respect that.”

After a cordial goodbye, Cassia turned toward the road, her linen tunic suddenly feeling too thin. Behind her, Thunderbolt whinnied softly, a sound that might have been goodbye. Or longing.

Cassia didn’t look back.