A LORD'S WEAKNESS

27. JEALOUSLY

A few hours later, they came into view of a rather large village consisting of cobbled houses.

Since they'd ridden away from the castle towards the borders they would have to stay the night somewhere. Although it was far from dark he still had a lot to say to Mariann before riding to the castle which is why he chose to stop earlier.

Looking down on Mariann leaning into his chest on the steed he wondered how someone so small could be so very stubborn making him subconsciously smile. Although her safety was his priority he couldn't help but feel relieved that she didn't leave him.

Rowan halted at a big town hall, leaving Mariann alone with their steed. Holding the reigns she looked around. Townsfolk we're passing her, looking rather uninterested while acknowledging her presence. A gust of wind made her hair fly in seemingly every direction as she stroked it behind her ear.

Turning to the steed she gently placed her hand on its nose, making it shake its head.

She couldn't help but wonder what was in store for her.

A tired but hard-working man had just finished his work on the fields when he walked towards the steed, wanting to report to the major.

The moment he saw Mariann his breath failed him and his head almost leaped with joy. Watching her gently stroke the horse while smiling a little, his head seemed to spin. Having no control over his legs he leaped towards her, making Mariann notice him by his fast footsteps.

The moment their eyes met Marianns eyes lit up.

Henry ran towards her, and embraced her, before picking her up by the waist and spinning her.

Although surprised by his action, Mariann couldn't help but smile at Henry. "How are you?" She finally managed to ask when her feet landed back on the ground.

Henry grinned from one ear to the other, ignoring her question, "What brings you here to Alof? Don't tell me you're a free woman!"

Henry had not let go of her hips, making Mariann subconsciously step away from his embrace. "No, I am still with the Lord, but-"

Henry's facial expression dropped hearing this, making Mariann stop talking.

"Mariann," his voice turned serious, eyes gleaming. "Let me buy you."

Mariann widened her eyes, but before she could even say a word he pulled her into a tight and sincere embrace.

Holding her he went on, "I haven't once stopped thinking about you, Mariann. I've worked hard and If you'd just let me, I'd- "

A strong and harsh grip grabbed Henry by the shoulder and roughly pulled him out of the embrace, making Mariann stumble.

Lord Rowan pulled Mariann back into his arms. "Get the fuck off of her," he grit through his teeth, his words laced with venom.

Mariann had rarely seen him lose his composure but she could tell by his heavy breathing that he was more than enraged.

Henry glimpsed right into the Lord's eyes while straightening his posture. Mariann felt like her words had been stolen from her. No matter how hard she tried she seemed unable to say anything.