“You’ll never know.” Brighit shoved past him into the clearing then stopped.
Several large trees had fallen, creating a little shelter. A rotting log lay in the center. She settled herself next to it, leaning back, and brought the whistle to her mouth. She blew one long note, then a shorter one, and began her tune.
In her mind she heard the words of her mother’s favorite song.
The handsome knight of one score and ten
He gave his hand to me
His touch so light I could ner believe
He came here just for me
Throughout the night he held me close
And I cleaved unto him
For in the morn twould be farewell
And never more to see
A sudden sob choked her breath. She dropped her face into her hands, the whistle forgotten beside her. The tears poured out for all she had given up. The security of her family. The loss of her mother and probably even her father now.
A gentle hand lay against her shoulder and she jumped. She swiped at her tears and stood away from him. “I’m sorry,” she said.
Peter did not touch her again. “Why are you sorry? What wrong have you done that you seek forgiveness?”
She shook her head, still swiping at the tears. “M-my weak-kness.”
“Tears are a woman’s right. They come from deep in her soul. You need not apologize for the depth of your feelings.”
Brighit swallowed hard and struggled for control. “No. It is not right for you to see me thus.”
Peter shifted slightly closer, his arms at his side. “Do you wish to be alone with your sorrow? Or will you allow me to offer comfort.”
Her breath hitched.
He raised his open arms slightly.
She stepped into his embrace, burying her face in his shirt. He smelled of smoke. The flood of emotions raged within the firm safety of him surrounding her.
He murmured words of comfort, one hand stroking her back, the other holding her tight. She let loose her fears. The loss of her dreams. She would allow herself this respite, a chance to experience peace. However fleeting or untrue. Shifting against him, she turned her cheek and the strong, steady beat of his heart comforted her. Her tears subsided.
“I will see no harm comes to you. You can trust in that.”
His whispered words soothed her and she snuggled closer still.
“You can trust in that.”
His lips by her ear.
“I promise you.”
Feather light, he kissed her hair.
“I will see you safe this time.”
His lips moved against her head. His breath was warm and a shiver swept over her.
