![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() “May we sit a moment?” She nodded but had gone too shy even to meet his eyes. “I truly am poor company at such times and usually before such times, as well.” “You are poor company for people who expect you to play on without missing a note, perhaps,” Val replied, holding her gaze. I’ll read to you and beat you at cards and bring you hot-water bottles for your aches.” Ellen’s brows knit. I’ll cuddle you up and bring you tisanes and rub your back and your feet. “So you become unfit company? Do you have the megrims and cramps and melancholy? Eat chocolates by the tin? Take to your bed?” “Sometimes.” Ellen peered at him, her expression guarded. “My courses are due.” Val cocked his head. She must have sensed his bewilderment, because she turned away and spoke to him from over her shoulder. “I will not force myself on you, I just want… I want to see you.” To make sure she was all right, whatever that meant in the odd, new context in which he was trying to define the term. “Just be honest.” “My… tonight might not be a good time.” “Sweetheart…” Val let her go and turned her to face him. “Talk to me, Ellen.” He kissed her cheek. “I will come back after dark,” he whispered, “if you’ll allow it.” She went still, and he knew a moment’s panic. “Before she could don her wide-brimmed hat and leave the sanctuary of their willow bower, Val did wrap his arms around her again, this time positioning his body behind hers. ![]()
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