Old Friend

Terra

The morning sun streamed in through the open window, warming my face and coaxing me gently awake. I stretched lazily under the plush down comforter before rolling over to check the time. Nearly nine o’clock already.

After the long night attending to Nathan, I had slept like the dead.

Speaking of Nathan, I should check in on his recovery. I slipped out from under the covers and shuffled over to peer out the window overlooking the central gardens.

Sure enough, I spotted a familiar tall, broad-shouldered figure slowly pacing the graveled path below. Even injured, Nathan was never one to stay idle in bed.

I shook my head in amusement and slight exasperation at his stubbornness. At least the limp in his stride seemed less pronounced than yesterday.

After quickly washing and braiding back my unruly waves, I threw on soft jeans and a rose peasant blouse before making my way to the east wing kitchens.

The sprawling mansion was largely deserted this Sunday morning. With Nathan on the men