Thora winced at the scolding tone in Geira's voice. "I... had to leave. I couldn't let Father marry me to someone I didn't know."
Geira's stern expression softened. "I understand. But running away was not the answer."
Finally, she turned and focused on Ari. Thora twisted her hands together, trying to stop their shaking while she waited for Geira's reaction.
"Who are you?" the blonde woman asked.
"My name is Ari. Thora has been traveling with me."
Several moments of silence ensued, followed by Geira looking between the two. Her eyes settled and narrowed on Ari.
"What have you done to her?" She took a step toward Ari, her fist raised.
Thora grabbed her stepmother's arm. "Geira, I am with him willingly."
Geira's deep blue eyes widened. "Your father..."
Thora heaved a sigh. "It's a long tale, Geira. Ari saved my life. I... owe him."
Geira shook her head. "What has he done to you? If he's harmed you, there'll be nothing left for your father to kill."
Thora held back her laugh at the surprised rise of Ari's eyebrows. "He hasn't harmed me. He kept me safe. And when Kata was wounded, he helped to heal her."
Geira's lips pressed together and suspicion glowed in her eyes. "You must come with me at once. Your father will want to know you are safe. Well, mostly."
Thora shook her head. "I am staying with Ari." She leaned in close to her stepmother's ear. "I love him. And he loves me. And after tomorrow, when he's cleared his name –"
"He's an outlaw?"
Thora glanced around, hoping no one had heard Geira's outraged cry. Thankfully, none paid them the slightest mind.
"Not anymore," said Ari. "And after tomorrow, I will have justice against the one who falsely accused me."
Thora grabbed Geira's hands. "Please don't tell Father you saw me. Not yet. Tomorrow, when you all hear the truth, you will be glad Ari found me when he did."
Geira hesitated, looking between them both. Thora reached out for Ari's hand, the familiar warmth and safety settling over her when he took it.
"Very well. But I cannot promise the children won't reveal your presence here."
"I won't tell, Mama," Gunnar vowed.
"I'm sure you won't. Elin, however, will not understand." Geira shrugged. "I cannot promise you anything."
"Father will be angry when he learns you saw me. Will you be all right?"
"I'm sure he will find some way to punish me," Geira said with a sigh. A flash of pink tinted her cheeks. "Do not worry. I will do my best not to betray you."
Thora hugged her stepmother. "Thank you."
"Where are the wolves?"
"I sent them into the forest. They created too much of a ruckus."
Geira nodded then stepped up close to Ari. "If you don't protect her, her father will be the least of your troubles."
"You have my word she will be safe when she's with me. Always."
"I'll have to be satisfied with that for now." She faced Thora once more. "As soon as your business is finished, I expect you to find us and explain everything to your father. We are in one of the public longhouses. Promise me."
