Page 41 of Claimed By the Viking

“I do not seek your counsel,” Signy glanced between the two women. “Nor that of your runes.”

“I’ll leave you to talk.” Astrid’s expression was sympathetic as she retreated. “Thank you again, Frida.”

Frida nodded farewell before once more turning to Signy. “We need not cast the runes. Take my hand, and I’ll sense what awaits you.”

Perhaps it’s the will of the gods that we’ve met here this day. Maybe there’s a message they seek me to hear.

A hush seemed to fall as she allowed the other woman to clasp her palm.

Frida closed her eyes. “I see turmoil. Some past and some to come.”

Signy pulled in a shaky breath as Frida went on.

“There is death, dear Signy, but also new life. I see a child in your future.”

As ever, Frida’s instincts were accurate.

She opened her eyes once more. “Have you bled this cycle of the moon?”

Signy looked around to confirm they were still alone. “I haven’t told anyone…but I suspect...”

“And the baby’s father?” Frida pressed. “Does he care for you?”

Signy swallowed deeply. “I… I cannot tell.” She blinked away threatening tears.

“Know this, Signy. If the gods have blessed you, I shall ever be here for you… and the babe, no matter what befalls. We must stick together.”

Signy managed a weak smile. After years living with her mother, she appreciated the sense of sisterhood.

“Something else troubles you.” Frida’s gaze bored into her. “You carry a burden which must be shared.”

Signy’s thoughts turned at once to the bees. She had yet to steel herself to confide in her mother over what she’d experienced at the hives, but she knew it was imperative.

She prayed that The Great Happening was not to come again, but there was no denying—something was wrong on the island.

Can Frida see that, too?

Or has she read more precisely what’s on my mind… and wants me to share my interpretation?

“Now is not the time, Frida,” she answered hurriedly. “I’m not ready… that is, I need to… ponder.”

“I understand.” Frida squeezed her hand before she let it go. “Remember what I said. I’m here for you.”

Wiping her eyes for what felt like the tenth time that day, Signy nodded. If a life without Viggo awaited her, she was going to need all the support she could get.

CHAPTER 15

“You’re right,Viggo. We need to be honest with one another.” Signy pushed the door closed behind her.

His head turned in her direction, but he didn’t stir from the stool upon which he habitually sat.

“So, I was right.” His voice was weary. “You tell me what you decide I should know rather than trusting me to understand what’s important?”

“I’ve no excuses.” Signy came closer. “I’ve much to explain. Things I’ve held back, but I’m resolved to tell you now. I ask only that you keep this confidence between us, for the secret isn’t mine alone, and I fear endangering the peace we’ve created between your men and our women.”

“Peace! Is that what you call it?” He made an exasperated sound.

“Please, Viggo. You may judge for yourself why I’ve not shared this with you before.” Hastily, she drew forward the other stool.

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