Page 86 of Desire

I nodded and stroked my fingers over his side like he’d wanted before easing away with a stretch.

“Are you feeling well?” he asked, watching me.

“I have some light pains, which are normal with my monthlies,” I said. “Those will pass, though.”

“Nothing else?”

“Should there be?” I asked, sitting up. He moved with me, and I gazed at the expanse of his exposed chest.

He chuckled and shook his head. “No. We’re just worried that you pushed yourself too far yesterday.”

“Unless you see my hair greying, I don’t believe I did.”

I kissed his cheek then stood and retrieved my cloak.

“Brandle,” I called. “Would you be willing to carry me?”

He appeared at the door several moments later. I smiled and moved so he could pick me up without entering the cottage.

“Do you think they would find this odd if they were watching?” I asked as he moved.

“What do you mean?”

“That you’re able to easily carry a woman several inches taller than you?”

“They’ve fought with us several times and know not to underestimate our strength.”

The worry he wore like a cloak grew heavier.

“Will you help me bathe when I’m finished?” I asked.

His gaze met mine, and I felt his surprise and relief.

“I will.”

The fire was burning brightly in the hearth when we returned, and he closed the door behind us.

“Will you tell me what’s worrying you?” I asked as I freed my shift’s tie.

He helped me lift it over my head and turned me. His fingers swept through my hair, twisting it up into a coil, which he secured with a smooth stick.

“Please, Brandle,” I said when he remained silent.

He plucked the tie holding my bleeding cloths in place, and I fought not to flush as he removed them.

“Some things, I cannot tell you,” he said, clasping my hand and helping me into the water. “And some things, I chose not to share out of fear. You’re helping us, Kellen, and I don’t want to do anything that will cause you to run.”

“I won’t run, Brandle,” I said as I leaned back against the tub.

His gaze searched mine; then he took the cloth, wetting it and soaping it.

“I would like you to treat me as you do your brothers.” He froze and looked at me in panic. I laughed. “Only in the regard that you don’t keep secrets from me. If your curse isn’t preventing you from speaking it, speak the truth as I have been doing. Even when it’s uncomfortable. Please.”

He sighed and took my hand, washing it first and working his way up my arm.

“I’m worried that the spells you’re casting will attract attention we cannot afford to attract. I’m worried that it’s taking so long to break the spell, not for our sake but your sister’s. I know you fear for her safety. I’m worried we won’t be able to keep my promise of protection. I’m worried that, once the curse is broken, it won’t be enough. I’m worried?—”

I leaned forward suddenly and kissed him. He didn’t try to take control, but he didn’t turn away either. He allowed me to kiss him sweetly as long as I wanted, and I felt his satisfaction that I was doing so.

---