A WHISPER OF ETERNIT

Page 182



She had risen early the next morning, hoping to see him again. She had waited in the common room all day, but he had never made an appearance. And then, just when she was beginning to think she would never see him again, he had glided into the room. She couldn't help staring. Never before had she seen a man like him. His clothing—fawn-colored breeches, a white lawn shirt, soft leather boots—was impeccable. Unlike the people of her small village, his skin was clear and smooth. His pale blond hair fell to his shoulders.

She stared at him, hoping to be noticed, and when he looked her way, a rush of warmth flooded through her, chasing away the cold that was ever a part of her.

Her eyes had widened as the stranger moved toward her.

When he reached her side, he inclined his head. "Good evening, my pretty one." Pleasure filled her at his words. "Good evening, kind sir."

"Will you walk with me?"

She had swallowed hard. "Me? You want me to walk with you?" He held out his hand. "Will you do me that honor?"

She hadn't known what to say. No man had ever noticed her before. She glanced around the common room, looking for her mother but, for once, there was no one else in sight.

Filled with a sudden sense of adventure, she had thrown back the quilt that covered her and placed her hand in his.

With easy strength, he had helped her to her feet. Placing her hand on his arm, he had escorted her from the inn.

Outside, night had fallen. A slice of butter-yellow moon kept company with the stars.

Kitanashivered, though she wasn't sure if it was her illness or the cool air that made her tremble. The stranger seemed to tower above her though he was only a few inches taller than she.

"How long have you been ill?" he asked.

"All my life, sir."

"Have you seen a physician?"

"Yes. None of them has been able to help." "I can help you."

Pausing, she had peered up at him. He looked back at her, his eyes glowing like pale sapphires in the darkness. "Are you a doctor, sir?"

"No."