Thread: Being Fair to the Fairy (Lano & Darkangel)

Meriel nodded as Sir Samuel informed her that they were about an hour away from their destination, his home. Almost immediately, her lips turned upward at the thought of finally being allowed to properly rest, to get out of the damp cold. Oh, and to finally eat something that would make her tongue dance as something sweet swirled about her mouth. Just then he handed her some dried apples to eat. Thank you, Sir Samuel, Meriel replied softly. She brought the dried fruit up to her lips and then let her tongue lick at it a moment before allowing her teeth to sink into the sweet smelling morsel. Oh how wonderful it tasted. Meriel savored the bite, letting the fruit roll about her mouth. She smiled a little as a hint of tartness laced the sweet flavor, making it more complex and delicious. The gesture had been a kind one and she appreciated it. No doubt such treats were difficult to come by this time of year, so late in the season. The fact that he was willing to share so many warmed her. As Meriel continued to nibble on the dried apples, she sensed that Sir Samuel was upset with himself. Her eyebrows furrowed slightly, wondering why he felt as he had. From what she was gathering so far, he seemed a decent man, kind even. Caring. It made her feel a bit easier about having lost her freedom since she knew it couldve been to someone horrible, with intentions that could harm. But this man? He was proving himself, slowly, to her and it made her smile that it seemed so important to him to do so. They rode on for a short while longer, but came to a halt when Sir Samuel pointed out another nearby apiary. Of all the luck! Meriel knew such things were a rare find indeed. And that with the weather growing colder, theyd soon be closed for the season, only being able to sell whatever inventory theyd managed to store away as overstock. Biting down on her lip just then, she hoped that theyd have enough to support themselves as needed during the upcoming harsher months of the year. Sir Samuel then handed Meriel his purchase, a lovely container of sweet honey. Oh, the scent of it alone nearly made her eyes roll back in euphoric bliss. Happily, almost as if she were an excited child offered a present, she opened it and let her eyes drink in the sight of the golden liquid. Immediately, she let her tongue dart out and lick at the surface of the honey as it set there within the container. A tiny groan escaped her lips as the sweet liquid coated her mouth and dripped down her throat. Just then, he handed her a spoon and almost instantly, her cheeks tinged a deep shade of scarlet. Thank you, Meriel whispered as she averted her eyes in slight embarrassment, her lips still quirked into a smile. She then took the spoon and dipped it into the honey, bringing the spoonful up to her mouth for tasting. At that, they rode on further, no doubt nearly to his home. Sir Samuel had said they werent far so Meriel was certain theyd soon be dismounting the horse and readying themselves for some much needed rest. Perhaps after a small sleep, Ill be well enough to help the young one, Meriel spoke, her voice melodic to the ear. This, she gestured to the honey she was eating. Is helping. Again, I thank you, Sir Samuel. She took another spoonful, letting it roll down along her tongue as she swallowed it. Where will I be staying, Sir Samuel? Will I need to prepare myself a room or Again she blushed. She knew her keeper had spoken of other things he wished from her. But, she wasnt ready. She barely knew him. She Or am I to share your bed? Meriels voice almost faltered as she finished speaking. She hoped Sir Samuel didnt misunderstand. It wasnt fear or sadness or anything of the sort that was consuming her now. No. It was embarrassment. Worry over giving away her heart, her body to someone she barely knew. She needed time. She needed to get to know him, understand him. And that wasnt something that could happen in a single day. No. She couldnt give herself over to any man she didnt love. Could she love him? She didnt know. But, given the kindnesses hed been exhibiting on their journey to his home, she found herself beginning to wonder if such a thing were possible.