“That marks the southern boundary of the Wolfbridge estate. We are standing on the northwestern edge, and because we’re on this hill, you can see how the fields are sheltered just a little from the full blast of storms coming in from this direction. It’s not much, but enough that our fields weren’t completely flattened last year by some of the terrible weather that tore through most of the country.”
She looked around with fascination. “’Tis almost as if Wolfbridge is in a little bowl, a dip in the land…”
“Indeed, yes. We gain the benefits of the sun and a measure of protection from the wind. Our river and the streams that feed it are capable of handling whatever rain we get, so there are few floods—none that I can recall—and the water is pure. Something to do with the underlying rocks,” he gave a half chuckle. “And that’s where my knowledge ends.”
“What is that?” She pointed off to the distance where several dark shapes stood out against a winter-pale field.
“Those are standing stones.”
“Really? You mean we have our own Stonehenge?”
“Well, not quite that dramatic,” he smiled. “Whatever circle might have been there at one time has pretty much collapsed. But you can still see the overall design. And the upright stones that remain look to be there for quite a few more centuries yet.”
“I suppose it’s not surprising, given that the south of England is rich in such things,” she mused.
“You have an interest in that period of history?”
“The Druids? Archaeologists believe they were the original builders…and yes. I find it fascinating.” She leaned against Daniel a little, relishing his warmth and solidarity. “Who were they? Why did they build such extraordinary edifices? And how was it accomplished?” She chuckled. “In my imagination, I can see many tired workers pulling massive keystones across that hill, can’t you?”
“You have an inquiring and imaginative mind, Adalyn,” he approved.
“I hope so,” she agreed. “I have never really been allowed to express my thoughts, or my interests. Certainly not my imagination.”
“What else do you imagine?”
She felt him pull her a little closer and gladly tucked herself into his side. “So many silly things.”
“Such as?” His voice was teasing. “Tell me two of them.”
She thought for a few moments. “I always wished for a home of my own.” She glanced up at him with a smile. “That wish has come true, hasn’t it? And beyond anything I ever shaped in my imagination.”
He smiled back. “Sometimes dreams do come true.”
“I hope so.”
“That was one. You must tell me one more.”
“You will think me a foolish girl.”
“Never.” He tightened his arm around hers.
“I tried so many times to imagine what it would be like to be loved.” Her voice had fallen to the merest whisper. “I’d hoped marriage might provide an answer.”
“It didn’t?”
“On the contrary. I’m not sure I ever want to experience such things again. The pain—the bruises—” she turned and hid her face in Daniel’s sleeve.
“Adalyn,” he murmured, concern in his voice.
“Enough.” She pulled herself together. “Please forget I said anything. A moment of weakness.”
He simply gazed at her, his face full of some emotion she could not define.
“Now, it is time to move on.” She disentangled herself from his arm and rose. “I am looking forward to the rest of the tour.”
“Of course.”
And the moment was gone, both parties resuming their friendly chatter as they continued on their journey around the Wolfbridge estate.
