It is said that man wasn’t meant to be alone. I believed that. As I waited in the stillness of the late morning air, I also pondered another thought.
Some believed that there is only one in the world that can complete us. Where they got that from, I didn’t know, but I could understand the logic in it. When two people fit together like puzzle pieces, it is hard not to believe that they were not made for you.
Which leaves me where? Naylin…
At the thought of her name, an aching began in my chest. It was like a painful pressure on my heart. All I wanted was to see her smiling again. And if I could hold her again, it would be that much better.
Footsteps outside, Shye told me from my pocket. It’s Coran, and judging from his footfall, he’s preceding the lunch procession.
I smiled and entered the house from the inner garden. I went to open the door when the elderly guard knocked. His face was friendly, with a mischievous glitter in his eye. He bowed his head slightly in respect. He kept his eyes on mine, appraising me, I knew. I bowed my head back at him but lowered my eyes in respect of his age and greater wisdom. When I looked back at him, I saw an approving smile.
“Welcome to my home, Master Coran. Please excuse the bareness. I haven’t been here long enough to decorate.” Stepping aside, I held my hand out to motion that he was welcome to enter.
With his hand comfortably on his sword hilt, Coran entered, looking around curiously and trying not to give away his agenda.
He’s looking for danger, Julius?
I chuckled, silently. Yes, he is…
I remained in the hall as Coran stalked through the house, making comments of appreciation for the space available and waving his fingers around. He also passed my workroom, the boxes carefully closed so no materials were exposed. At this, he asked why, but I simply stated it was part of my trade. He seemed content with this as he joined me in the hall.
As we waited together, I could feel the silence breathing.
Finally, Coran broke it.
“I have a minor Talent. Did you know that?”
Glancing over at him, I watched him stare at the door.
He chuckled to himself and glanced at me out of the corner of his crinkled eyes.
“Of course you didn’t, young man.”
I smiled back and waited patiently. Curiosity nipped at me as we stared at each other.
Coran’s old eyes crinkled more at the edges as he grinned.
“Maybe, when this Joust business is over, we can discuss Talents?”
My smile widened as I nodded my affirmation. “I would like that,” I told him.
We both turned toward the door as a soft tapping issued.
“Well,” Coran said as he turned back to look at me. “You know what that means.”
I could feel my heart leaping in my chest as I opened the door. The maid was silhouetted there in the doorway. She smiled kindly. I smiled back and extended my hand to her.
“Welcome to my home, milady. I’m happy that your beauty can grace it this fine afternoon.”
Taking my hand in hers and beaming radiantly, Yaniya took her skirts in the other and entered with as much dignity as a troupe of noblewomen. My smile grew as I watched the effect of my treatment on her face.
After helping her through the doorway, I turned back to find a pair of beautiful hazel eyes staring back at me. My heart almost stopped with joy as I extended my hand yet again.
“My dearest Naylin. Do I have the honor of basking in your beauty as well this afternoon?”
I watched her shyly blush and turn her face away as she reached for my hand and mimicked Yaniya’s entrance. Behind her, Shoa entered.
“So, Coran!” Shoa patted his old friend hard on the back. “Where’s the food!?” Shoa turned slightly toward me and tipped his head.
“This way!” Coran said, offering his arm to Yaniya.
Giggling a little, the three headed through my house to the dining room, leaving Naylin and me alone.
Naylin snickered and turned toward me.
“Those three get better the longer I know them.”
I let my eyes trail after them. “I can tell.” Looking back at her, I noticed the glow in her cheeks and the brightness in her eyes. “I’m glad to see you in a better state today, Naylin.”
She blushed a little then asked, “Julius? Would you like to show me your house?”
Offering my arm to her, I said, “It would be my absolute pleasure.”
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