Re: Left Behind (CRP)

[Obli.]

Obli looked at her, some surprise written on his face. "Ye-ye ne'er let yerself want not'in'...even now?" He was rather confused that it would have stayed with her this long. "Ye be knowin' ye ken want fer an't'in' ye want now righ'? 'Tis jes' up t'us t'be gettin' it fer ye." He watched her look at their hands. He took his free hand and gently caressed the back of the hand he held.

"Well, Aash, ifn meh nay be do'gin' daggers, ye nay be t'at scary..." He chuckled at the tease. "'Ones'ly Aash, it nay scare meh none, in fact it be makin' mor' sense t'e more meh t'inks 'bout it." He listened as she spoke of the heartache that tormented her. He knew the feeling all to well, but under different circumstances. He imagined hers hurt a lot worse. He'd loved and lost when she passed away, it had taken him a long time to come around from it. "In time Aash, in time it be jes' a memr'y an' it ken nay 'urt ye. Plus, it nay be all t'at long 'go, righ? Meh r'member when meh fiancee died...meh be needin' a'mos' six mont's b'fer meh put it all b'hind meh." When he looked into her eyes his heart melted for her. The pain she carried - if only he could share the burden. He rose with her, wary to be certain she was feeling fine. He wrapped his arms around her, wanting to comfort her.

He let go as he felt her turn. He did his best to hide his astonishment as she delved into a raw honesty that he hadn't planned on hearing, though he welcomed it. He waited for her to finish before saying a word. "An' jes' whet ye be t'inkin' meh wants t'be 'earin' ye say?" He asked coyly. He ran his fingers through her hair, watching as the beautiful strands cascaded down from his fingers. He saw her shiver as the wind blew. Instinctively he tried to warm her up with an embrace. What was this? Protecting her? From the cold? Weakling. He chuckled as she offered a better solution, getting her home. "Aye, meh be mos' 'appy t'be gettin' ye 'ome safe...frem t'e cold." He grinned. He parted from her with hesitation. Returning to Kael, he mounted the stallion and tool up a position next to her for the rest of their short journey to her house.

Aasha had seen the surprise on his face, dropping her gaze and taking a breath before boldly looking into his eyes. When ya dun gets wha' ya wants when yer a y'ungin', ya learns tha' wantin' leads ta bein' sad when ya dun gets it...an' aft'r a while ya jus' stops. Aasha found herself clinging when he hugged her, inhaling his scent as her heart raced. Her voice dropped to a whisper, partially muffled into his chest. Wha' if'n I dun wants ta gives it tha' much time. She sighed deeply, Donnor had been gone for months, but it hadn't been six months. Did that mean that having feelings for Obli now, even if those feelings confused and scared her, were wrong? She refused to believe that, she couldn't, not when his arms felt so right around her.

She envied him, he was so confident in himself, in his feelings. Even in her. Hearing him talk of how he felt, even when he'd said he loved her...the fear was tempered with a thrill she didn't expect, making her wonder if maybe she was more ready than she thought.

Reaching out, she ran the back of her hand down his jawline, her face serious. Ya wants me ta be sayin' I loves ya. I dun knows 'xactly wha' I'm re'dy fer, but I ain't re'dy ta be ev'n usin' tha' word, let 'lone sayin' it ta ya. Her eyes never left his face, not even when he ran his fingers through her hair. Aasha trembled at the depth of emotions reflected in his eyes, her arms wrapping around him before he moved to mount Kael.

She had regained some strength by then, not quite as wobbly as before. He had hesitated before moving, she did not, walking with a confidence she didn't feel to Storm. Whispering in the mare's ear, she smacked her rump and smiled when Storm headed down the path to her house, then turned slowly back towards Obli and Kael. Biting her lower lip, Aasha shifted nervously, then made her way to the stallion. Her fingertips gently grazed his leg before coming to a rest on his knee. Obli...I wants ta ride wit' ya...I wants ta feel yer arms 'round me. Aasha held her breath, her eyes glistening as she waited for an answer, prepared to walk home if need be.

"It migh' nay be takin' ye t'at long Aash, t'was jes' meh own 'sperience." He squeezed her a little tighter. Finding solstice in having his arms around her. "T'en 'gain, meh ne'er 'ad som'one t'be talkin' to eit'er." Obli shrugged. He would be there for her, he knew that much.

Obli closed his eyes and turned his into her hand as she touched his face. He opened them only so look deep into her eyes. "T'at nay be tru' Aash, Sur' meh would like t' 'ear it frem ye but, meh on'y wants t'be 'earin' t'at when ye re'lly feel it. Meh nay be looking t'be rushin' ye. Ifn ye only e'er say ye care 'bout meh, t'en meh fine wit t'at." He took in her beauty by the moonlight. He felt at peace looking into her eyes.

Obli watched stunned at Storm took off without a rider. It didn't register what had happened until Aasha spoke to him. She wanted what!? Seriously? He couldn't believe it, but he wasn't about to argue it. "'Course you can Aash." He grinned "Where be meh manners?" He dismounted from Kael faster than he'd ever done before. He offered her his hand to get help her up onto Kael, not that she needed it

The breath she was holding came out in a relieved rush when he said of course. Being prepared to walk hadn't meant she wanted to. Her hand slid up his thigh when he dismounted, dropping to her side the moment she realized what he was doing. Taking his outstretched hand, Aasha moved forward until they were almost touching. Ya knows ya didna needs ta be gettin' down ta help, ya c'ulda pulled me from Kael's back?

Aasha didn't mount immediately, instead tilting her chin to look searchingly at his face. Ya ken talks ta me anyt'me yer wantin'. If'n wha' ya a'ready said ain't made me run, nothin' yer gonna be sayin' lat'r will. May be scar'd Obli, but I ain't as daf' as ya thinks. I ain't willin' ta walk 'way. Ev'n if'n I didna wanna feel nothin', I do...an' I dun wan' ta be fightin' mys'lf nom're... Flashing a rueful smile, she added; ya dun makes it easy fer me ta hide... The girl leaned up, gently brushing her lips across his cheek before releasing his hand to climb up on Kael's back. Once seated, she glanced down, holding her hand out and waiting for him to remount.

[Obli.]

Obli smiled warmly at Aasha as she took his had and moved close to him. He loved her. He really loved her. The notion wrapped around him like a warm blanket. "Meh knows Aash, but meh nay be 'avin' it an'ot'er way. Meh be knowin' he 'ate bein' called a lady- and meh ne'er do t'at 'gain. T'at nay be meanin' meh ain't goin' t'be treatin' ye like one." He winked playfully at her and teasing grin grew rapidly across his face. "'Onest Aash, meh be crazy 'bout ye. Daft fool fer ye, nay dou't. But ye mean t'werld t'meh Aash and meh goin' t'show ye t'at e'eryday. 'Tis t'e lil' t'ings Aash, ifn ye ne'er had t'em b'fer...ye be havin' t'em now - prolly mor' t'en ye e'er want. Meh pr'mises ye t'at much." He nodded to her, the pleasure of being with her very apparent.

Obli found her wandering eyes and became entranced as she spoke. "Meh knows ye be tryin 'ard Aash, an' ye nay be daft, nay one bit o' ye. He took his free hand and rubbed her back as she spoke. Meh be v'ry content wit ye feelin' som't'in' Aash. 'Tis mor' t'en meh e'er 'sepcted. Ifn it 'elps ye stop figh'in yerself, know t'at meh be det'rmin'd to show ye whet it be likes t're'lly be lov'd back. Nay repeatin' yer bad 'speriences." He saw he smile and the ensuing teasing made him chuckle deeply. "Meh glad t' 'ear it. His heart fluttered as her lips touched his cheek. There was something about her being mounted on Kael that made him stare at her in wonderment. He took her hand, as she had suggest he do earlier and settled himself in right behind her, so close her was touching her. Arms wrapping around her while to took Kael's reigns ad placed them in her hands, wrapping his hands around hers. Tilting he head to the side slightly he placed a few kisses along her neck and whispered in her ear. "Let's be gettin' ye warm an' 'ome." With a little nudge, Kael moved forward, reigns in the hands of Aash - this would be the first time anyone, other than Obli, had ever had control of him.

Aasha turned, breathing in his scent so close behind her. She was starting to recognize when he teased. Even knowing didn't stop her from wanting to explain. Once...long 'go...when I firs' ran from my co'sin an'...tha'...I mets Aimar. He was my firs' fr'end. He said he loved me too, bu' he wanted ta change me. W'uldna admit tha' I was mor'n a fr'end ta nob'dy. I tried...tried ta be a lady fer 'im. Tried changin' wha' makes me who I am. Was teachin' me all 'em rules ta bein' a lady...wasna till he...died..tha' I stopped tryin' ta be mor'n who I am. Obli...it ain't tha' I dun likes bein' called a lady, its tha' I ain't one. I tried tha', an' it wasna me.

She had stiffened as she spoke, the deep seated resentment she'd felt back then upsetting her all over again. But this was different, she had confidence that Obli wouldn't do that...or hadn't yet. His sister knew about her, he wasn't afraid to be seen with her, even seen being affectionate to her. Aasha turned to face forward, noting Kael's restlessness when she saw his ears flickering. Transferring the reigns to both hands, she ran her fingers long his mane, then took them back, Obli's hands covering hers making her smile and relax slightly. Ya dun gots ta be makin' me prom'ses Obli.

Aasha settled back against Obli as Kael began to move. It was hard to concentrate on the path with him behind her. Worse when his lips began trailing across her neck. Umm...yer gettin' me warm wit'out gettin' me home. The heat in her face confirmed her words. Her leading his stallion was going to result in them both being bucked if she wasn't careful. Sighing deeply, she forced herself to sit straighter, to ignore the seductiveness of the heat emanating from him. I...I'm glad yer a daf' fool fer me...; she whispered, barely loud enough to be heard. The path had grown darker as they rode, at least until they came to the clearing where she lived. There was no need to guide Kael then, his nostrils flared when he caught Storm's scent, making Aasha grin as the stallion moved around to the back of her house instead of stopping in the front. She was home, where she wanted to be. Then why was she wishing they weren't?

Obli chuckled easily as she spoke of not being a lady. "Aye, ye sur' nay be one o' t'em prop'r ladies, t'at be fer sur'. Meh like t'at 'bout ye t'ough. Nay be meanin' ye ain't a special kind o' lady t'meh. Obli watched as she skillfully handled Kael's reigns. Either the horse liked her, or he was was just going easy for once. Obli placed his bet on the first one, which spoke volumes for her. Of course, the true test would be seeing her ride Kael someday without him. Obli couldn't help but chuckle at the thought. He felt her relax as she spoke. "Pr'mises be easy t'be makin' and keepin' when ye be doin' t'em an'way." He shrugged and squeezed her close to him.

His lips turned from a kiss to a smile along her neck with the mention of warming her up. He kissed her cheek and loosened his grip on her while she adjusted her position, only to re-tighten when she settled in again. "Meh ken nay t'ink o' a bet'er person t'be a daft fool fer. Meh b'long righ' 'ere wit ye...to ye e'en." He rested his head alongside hers while they rode the rest of the way to her house. The clearing appeared and Kael seemed to take over. Must be her mare. Obli smiled at the thought. So the two of them both has exquisite taste. Sorrow crept in on him as they reached her house. It meant they wouldn't be together much longer. Thoughts of the frank openness between them on the trip to her house chased the sorrow away. Just knowing that they were going to go somewhere, that some type of relationship was forming was more than enough to satisfy him.

Aasha looked at her house, then back to Obli. It had been a long night, fraught with tensions..her being left behind when they went to Munster, confusion over how she felt about him, overindulgence in alcohol...yet Aasha found she couldn't regret even one moment. Not when it culminated with this, with being held in his arms. She wasn't drunk anymore, the alcohol purged from her system. She was even feeling better, no longer weak or ill, her stomach settled down. The only lingering sign easily fixed once she found something to drink. No regrets that is, save one. The evening would be over the moment she slid off Kael's back and walked into the house.

Leaning back against him, Aasha sighed. She had smiled when he spoke of her being special to him, his laughter vibrating through her. She'd even bitten her lip to keep from arguing about how he could find better, liking the idea of him belonging with her. Her voice was soft, fingers lightly grazing against his arms when she let the reigns go. I likes ya bein' here wit' me...mor'n I 'xpected I w'uld o' c'uld. I... Sighing deeply, Aasha tilted her head, sliding it to rest on his arm so she could see at least the shadow of his face.

[Obli.]

Obli relaxed while he held her. The only person he'd ever wanted this badly in his life was right there in his arms. It just didn't get more complete than this. He squeezed her tightly before she spoke. Her words filled him with hope. He just knew deep down their relationship would blossom into something even more satisfying - if that was even possible. As she turned to look at his his head tilted to face hers, his hand moved to carefully stroke the side of her face. "Ifn we be talkin' 'ones'ly, meh e'en 'njoy'd t'e time ye spent wit meh in jail." He grinned, leaning down to kiss the tip of her nose. "Eh, meh be rude, meh in'erupt'd ye. Ye was goin' t'be saying t'at ye whet? He said with gentle curiosity.

Aasha soaked up his warmth for as long as she could, closing her eyes when he stroked the side of her face. Heat flared where he touched, surprising in its intensity. Aasha slid a hand up his arm to rest on his shoulder while they talked, trying to draw the evening out. Ya enjoyed tha'? Ya didna acts likes ya was likin' me there, glarin' a' me an' all... It was funny, thinking back to how irritated she'd been at his dismissal of her when she first met him compared to how she was feeling now. Giggling at herself, she murmured; Ya looked likes ya wanted ta stab me when I pulled tha' chair ov'r.

Her nose wrinkled when he kissed it, a sigh following when he asked what she was going to say. As open as she'd been, finishing that particular thought made her nervous. Biting her lower lip, she whispered; I...umm... She couldn't do it, grateful for the dark when her face turned red. ...nothin'...jus'...guess I sh'uld goes in...

"Aye, ye be 'avin' a poin', but meh could nay be lettin' ye know t'at meh be goin' crazy wit'out som'one t'be talkin' t'. It nay be like meh be daft fer ye righ' t'en and t'ere...migh' o' 'elped t'ough." He said the last part in a low voice, smiling at her a bit embarrassed. Her happiness drew him to her more. He hadn't seen this side of her much, really the only other time was when they were down at the beach. It had made her all the more endearing to him then and was doing it all over again now.

He looked at her, trying to hide the small skepticism he had in her answer. He had a sunken feeling in his heart as she suggested getting her inside. He didn't want the night to end. He knew logically it couldn't last forever, but he could always idealistically hope, right? Well, he was regardless. "Ah, well, t'at be a lot o' werds fer not'in'." He kissed her cheek with a smile and slid down from Kael. He reached up to help her down - not because she needed it, because he wanted to be there for her.

Glad he'd given her something to focus on besides the sense of loss she was experiencing over the evening ending, Aasha teased; Ya was goin' crazy? Sure ya wasna a'ready a bit daf' 'fore ya was put inna jail? She giggled again before adding; Ya knows...if'n ya was puts in jail now, I'd be comin' ta keeps ya comp'ny...jus' nae fer the same reas'ns I did then.

Aasha tried to ignore the look on his face, not wanting to see that he doubted it was nothing. It made her feel strangely guilty, not something she was used to. Despite her best efforts, it was her own fault he dismounted, the evening was coming to a close because of her fear. In an effort to keep the disappointment from showing, Aasha did her best to smile. A real one showed when he reached up to help her down...maybe she could show him what she was so afraid of saying. Instead of taking his hands, she swung her leg around so she was sitting side saddle, then placed her hands on his shoulders, sliding against him as she got down. Her face was on fire by the time her feet touched the ground, though she didn't step back. Staring at his chest, she mumbled: I didna wants the ni'te ta end.

Obli laughed. "Ifn meh be in jail 'gain, chances be t'at ye be in t'e next room o'er. Mebbe t'ey be lettin' us share one t'get'er." He managed to say between short breaths.

She did everything but what he expected, you know - take his hand and get off Kael. Instead, as she slipped off Kael he reached out to slow her fall, hands running along the length of her backside. It put him in the perfect position to hug her as her words settled in. His nose rested on the top of her head. He breathed in her scent and quivered in the delight. He sighed as the reality sunk in. "Meh be knowin' 'tis jes' fer t'nigh' but meh been r'grettin' t'e poin' t'at meh 'as t'be sayin' g'bye t'ye - 'least since we left t'e tavern." He turned so his arm was around her, ready to escort her to her house, if for no other reason than to fight the inevitable parting.

Aasha grinned, then whispered; Isna jail 'posed ta be pun'shm'nt? Ain't sure bein' locked up wit' ya ken be called tha'... Impulsiveness was going to get her into a lot of trouble, that and her wayward tongue. Aasha enjoyed the sound of his amusement, letting her own laughter join his to dispel the awkwardness that was trying to creep over her at her comment.

It wasn't amusement now, her heart fluttered when his hands ran the length of her backside, an ache settling in. The hug didn't help, she was unsteady, not due to alcohol, but something much more potent. Aasha bit back a growl when he turned, breaking the contact that was causing her to tingle from head to toe. Trying to satisfy herself with just his arm around her, hers slipped to rest around his waist. Her footsteps were slow as they moved towards the door, her fingers fumbling to open it. Umm...its late Obli...an'...maybe... Aasha stuttered to a stop, feeling like a bigger fool than even her cousin had accused her of being. Trying to cover her nervousness, she mumbled; Ya wants som'thin' ta drinks?

[Obli.]

"Aye, t'would be pun'shment fer t'e guards." He couldn't suppress the giggle that bubbled up from below.

Obli grinned. She didn't want the night to end either. He looked at her with eyes of adoration. He placed his hand on hers as she fiddled with the door knob. "Well, meh ken nay be rude an' deny yer 'ospi'ality. His eyes sparkled with delight. "An' 'tis t'e firs' time ye be 'avin' meh into yer 'ouse, meh 'as t'be sayin' aye t' t'at" He kissed her cheek quickly before continuing. "Eh...jes'...ye gots an't'in b'sides t'at mushroom brew t'at be makin' meh eyes odd?" He smiled weakly. "Ifn ye nay 'ave som't'in' else...meh still be 'avin' t'at drink." He winked at her and smiled reassuringly.

His hand over hers did nothing to quell her nervous fumbling, instead making it worse. By the time the door was open, Aasha was visibly flustered. Ya ken says no Obli...I ain't gonna be thinkin' yer rude. Glancing up after he kissed her cheek, she smiled shyly, then reluctantly removed her arm from around his waist. There was very little in the room, Aasha dropped her pack on a low counter before grabbing two mugs. Filling them swiftly from a jar, she looked around. It was a simple home, consisting of only three rooms. An open doorway lead from the kitchen where they had entered, into a common area where the hearth was located. Past that was her bedroom, the door open to let in the heat from the fire...when there was one.

Ya ken comes in. I'll jus'... Handing him one of the mugs, she moved past him, aware that the house was chilly without a fire going. It ain't no brew...jus' wat'r. I gots some ale too if'n yer wantin' it, o' a bottle o' whiskey in my pack. Aasha didn't wait for an answer, moving into the common room, quickly and efficiently lighting the fire she'd laid out earlier. She was glad she had been in such a cleaning frenzy, no reason for him to know how badly she hated housework the first time he entered her home. Glancing around, she blanched. She'd gotten rid of almost everything in her house, most of it still stacked in a pile out back to be burned. The only room still fully furnished was her bedroom, the common area consisting of a soft rug near the fireplace, and a lone rocking chair. Aasha stood awkwardly, waiting for him to follow her into the room, drinking deeply of the water to hide her embarrassment.

"Aash, t'at jes' be meh 'scuse fer sayin' aye. Meh nay be passin' t'is up fer a sec'nd." He put a hand on her shoulder and gave it a gentle squeeze.

Obli walked into the kitchen and smiled. It was a nice little house. Practical. Exactly what a person needed and nothing more. She handed him the glass of water. He took it in both hands, nodding to her with appreciation. He took a sip, tasting the cool refreshing liquid. "Wat'r be jes' fine. Fer once we ken be 'njoyin' time t'get'er wit'out one o' us stumblin' o'er t'e ot'er." He smirked. The common room was practically empty - save a rug and a rocking chair. He knew she'd been getting rid of Donnor's things - but this looked more like the removal of every memory. The toll that her past relationship had on her became clearly apparent. His resolve to not repeat the cycle grew. He walked up to her placing a hand on her shoulder watching the flames in the hearth flicker. "Ye 'ave a nice 'ouse Aash. Meh likes it. 'Tis jes' whet a person be needin'." Obli took the liberty to sit down on the rug, facing the fire. He looked at her invitingly. Heat from the fire washed over him. He reflected on how he'd gotten to this moment. Sitting by the fire in her house. It had been a long and laborious road, yet he didn't have a single regret. He'd do it all ten times over again if the need be. He had finally run out of options. He only had one - and it was Aasha. The satisfaction of that knowledge stirred inside him. This was going to be great.

Yah...I dun did tha' toni'tes...ain't plannin' on gettin' drunk o' on gettin' sick 'gain. Relaxing slightly, she wondered why she felt so odd. It wasn't as if they'd not been alone before. Not even that she hadn't wanted to be...maybe because they were in her house? She had finished the water without even knowing it while she waited for his reaction to her home.

Tilting her head up as he placed his hand on her shoulder, Aasha smiled softly, some of the tension leaving. T'ain't much...bu' its jus' me an' I ain't needin' much. She had wanted him here, why was she acting a ninny now? He was in one of her favorite spots, there was many a night since she'd been alone that she slept on that rug, the crackling of the fire lulling her to sleep. Easing down beside him, she absently placed the mug down. while staring into the flames. Umm...Obli...I'm glad yer here; she whispered huskily.

"Ah, but Aash, look at t'is place!" his voice resounded with enthusiasm. "T'is be all yers now. Ye ken take yer time an' make it jes' t'way ye be wantin'. Meh jes' be wan' t'be 'ere t'see it." the tone of his voice changed to wonderment and eagerness. As she sat next to him, he moved closer so their bodies were touching. He took note that they seemed to just fit naturally together like pieces to a puzzle, interlocking as if destiny had put them there. He whispered back to her. Meh ken nay t'ink of a place meh rat'er be t'en 'ere. Ona boat, road or beach, ifn meh be wit ye, t'e res' dun mat'er." He pulled her in close, enjoying hilding her as the fire crackled.

It was hard not to grin at his enthusiasm, he had given her another way to look at the meager furnishings in her house. He had a knack for that, pointing things out that made her think of a situation differently. It was something she was really starting to appreciate. Ya...will be takin' my time...tis nice ta knows when we gets backs from our travels tha' I gots a place ta be comin' backs to. Ain't a'ways had tha'.

Aasha glanced up to meet his eyes when he moved closer, willing herself not to tense as he pulled her in close. She was close enough that his scent teased her senses, her body tingling with awareness. Surprised by the feeling of peace, even contentment that she felt, Aasha laid her had on his shoulder, her arm slipping around his waist. - Ask girl! Aash before you get too comfortable. No reason to torture yourself. - Umm...Obli...ya knows how we talked once 'bout wha' made sense an' didna wit' takin' me home?

She got him thinking about their upcoming trips to far away lands. Adrift on a boat, sea breeze flowing through their hair. He was looking forward to it, it would be a nice change of pace. Something exciting for them to do...together. It made him smile. "Well, when we be travlin' meh keep meh eye out fer nice piec's. Ifn ye like som't'in' meh find, we ken make sur' t'be brin'in' it back fer ye." He couldn't stop smiling, still thrilled about the idea of traveling across lands with her.

Obli's body stilled as she questioned him. He had no idea where this was going, but he did remember the conversation. "Aye, meh r'memb'r t'e talk. Ye nay be wan'in' meh t'be takin' ye 'ome, like meh should o' been, cuz meh be passin' meh room on t'e way." Obli chuckled and kissed her on the forehead, right above her eyebrow. "So, aye, meh r'memb'r, whet 'bout it?" His curiosity was peaking.

Looking for pieces of furniture for her house together. It sounded so normal, something her life had been missing of late. Aasha realized it also sounded fun, and would give her a chance to see his taste in things, to see if he preferred the simplicity she did. Jus' dun be lookin' fer too much...ain't sure the ship'll hold all we mights jus' be bringin' back.

It was a way to avoid the question she had asked, just for a moment...but did she really want to avoid it? She had asked... Aasha reached up, rubbing the spot he kissed, a quizzical look on her face. Why did he keep kissing her like that? It wasn't her lips, he wasn't trying to... - Stop thinking and just ask! - Umm...well...tis late...an' tis a long way backs ta the inn from 'ere...an'...umm...I gots a floor...

[Obli.]

"Aye not'in but t'e piec's ye be likin' best. T'ink o' t'e stories ye ken 'ave wit t'em - 'Oh, t'at chair? Meh be travelin' in England, stumbl'd int' t'e wrong room a bit o' drunk one nigh' paid t'e man 25P t'let meh takes it.'" Obli couldn't help but chuckle at the story he'd made up on the go.

Obli smiled as she rubbed the spot he's just kissed and the confusion the spread across her face. "Meh ken nay a'ways be kissin' yer lips...'speci'ly ifn meh needs t'be t'inkin' 'bout whet meh 'as t'say. Meh 'ead dun work well when meh kissin' yer lips." As if to prove his point, he kissed her lips deeply. The love of a thousand loves flared inside him. When he pulled back he was a bit dazed.

I gots a floor... it wasn't the words she said, it was the implication that she was willing to have him spend the night at her house that made him look at her pleasantly surprised. The surprise faded into a smile. "Let meh guess, ye nay be t'inkin' it be makin' sense fer meh t'be 'eadin' back t' t'e Inn." A grin crept across his face. "Well, meh ken tell ye t'at yer floors be mor' invitin' t'en t'e Inn. An' t'be 'onest wit ye, meh been a bit concern'd 'bout wakin' up ina same room as sissy, dun wan' 'er t'inkin' t'e wrong t'ing." His eyes sparkled and he chuckled at his teasing remark about his sister. He sighed, ready to take a big step with Aasha. "Meh be 'onored t'be stayin' at yer house, but on'y ifn meh ken see ya t'yer bed, when ye be re'dy, an' kiss ye g'nigh' as ye fall 'sleep. T'en be prolly curl up righ' 'ere." He looked at her lovingly and brushed her lips with his, drawing her lower lip into his mouth and dancing his tongue along the edge before pulling back to smile at her.

[Obli.]

Paid 'im huh? Aasha giggled at the idea. Ya knows...if'n me be stumblin' into a room drunks an' likes a chair, I ain't lik'ly to be payin' ta takes it...mor'n lik'ly to jus' takes it, an' if'n the man dun likes me takin' it, be stabbin' 'im firs'... Still giggling, she tightened her arm around his waist, nuzzling into his side.

Right at the point she realized what she'd done, she started blushing. When he explained why he didn't always kiss her lips, the blush deepened. He had the same problem she did...almost...her thought processes slowed just being close, shutting off completely when he...then he kissed her. Aasha forgot everything beyond the feel of his lips on hers, returning the kiss uninhibitedly, trembling at the passion he aroused.

Blinking in confusion when he pulled back, Aasha tried to control her desire. Perhaps letting too many barriers down around him was a bad idea after all...she hadn't expected her response to be so intense. The girl was left struggling to make the mush of her brain work when he answered her question.

She had to clear her throat twice before she could speak. It dun makes sense...nae this lates...an'... The tension coiled inside her had not eased, butterflies had settled in her stomach, and not because of too much brew. Wha' would she thinks if'n she wokes up wit' ya in there? A slight wrinkling of her brow showed her confusion, changing swiftly to shock. Yer wantin' ta sees me inna bed? - Did he just say he wanted to see me naked? Surely not...he...idgit girl, just wear something to sleep in. Its not like he could know you sleep with nothing on...could he? - Thoughts switched off again, Aasha sighed when his lips brushed across hers, shivering as he teased her lip. Her fingers crept from his shoulder to caress the back of his neck, tangling in the strands of hair at his nape. A small growl of frustration slipped when he broke the kiss, glazed eyes meeting his.

He chuckled. He had forgotten that they had different methods of...acquiring things. It would be an adjustment for him, but he wouldn't change her for the world. He loved everything about her, right down to the smallest of indiscretions.

He brushed past asking or clarifying anything when she questioned him about his request. That was not how he saw it playing out in his mind. What was she- his eyes widened Ooooooooooooooh. No, that wasn't what he meant in the slightest. He might have been getting a little more assertive in tell her how he felt about her, but that...he looked at her glazed eyes and a sense of peace filled him. He relished in the little protests she made when their kisses broke, though if he could he would never break them. "Ye know, once ye be settled, meh ken come sit next t'ye, 'old yer hand, run meh fing'rs tru' yer 'air, wa'ches ye fall 'sleep, kiss ye as ye drift way fer t'e nigh'." His eyes fell from hers as he looked down. He lifted them to meet hers again. "It jes' be t'at..t'is t'e firs' time meh ken make a kiss frem me be t'e las' t'ing ye 'sperience at nigh' an' t'e firs' t'ing ina mornin'." He bit his lower lip. "Ye know, give ye an ide'r o' how meh like to live meh life wit ye...someday." Obli's thoughts started up as soon as he said it. 'STOP! You stupid imbecile. You should know by now the rule is 'filter, filter, filter'. You finally get the one woman you want, more than anything else in the world, to warm up to you and you just HAVE to push it.' He blushed, bracing himself for her response.

[Aasha]

Her brain had still not fully engaged when he started speaking again, she was staring at him, helplessly lost in the feelings he'd envoked. At that moment, she could care less about anything other than him, her past, the fear, everything had fallen away. Her face burning brightly, Aasha lifted her eyes to his, trying to focus on something besides her desire. The picture he was painting was one she'd not imagined, Aasha couldn't remember ever falling asleep with anyone the way he described. Ya re'lly wants to watch me goes to sleep? If'n yer kissin' me an' I'm sleepin', I canna be kissin' ya backs then. She'd gone and done it again, let her fool tongue loose, saying things out loud that she should have kept internal. Aasha buried her face in his shoulder, almost missing his last statement in her embarrassment.

Her head came up slowly, disbelief written all over her face. Obli...I...I...I'm jus' gettin' used to the idea tha' I lo.. Aasha stuttered to a stop, her mind screaming at her. - NO! What are you thinking girl? Hell, are you thinking at all? You like him...LIKE him. Nothing more! You're going to get hurt and its your own damn fault! Stupid idgit, damn fool girl! You went through this before, do you really want to repeat it again? Shut up dammit! Start thinking with something besides your desire... - I likes ya...but...I'm marr'ed Obli...I...umm...I thinks I sh'uld goes ta bed now...

[Obli.]

Obli chuckled as she questioned him. "Aye meh do Aash, meh do. Dun get meh wrong Aash, meh ken ne'er get enough o' yer kisses. Ifn ye want, meh count 'ow many ye miss, t'en ye ken make t'em up la'er ifn ye like." He smiled as her head buried into his chest. He leaned his head against hers. Feeling them rise and fall together as he breathed.

He'd done it. He'd spooked her. He sighed. "Aash...meh be knowin' ye be gettin' used t' t'e ide'r, meh be knowin' t'at ye lo-" He paused. Did she almost say what it sounded like? Was she really struggling with liking him, yet liking him anyway? Or was she struggling with loving him and settling for liking him? He wouldn't press it, but his biased hopes ran high. He recovered himself. "T'at ye like meh, meh be knowin' yer still merri'd, meh be knowin' all t'at Aash... He sighed. "Yet meh ken nay stand t'e idea o' nay seein' ye fer jes' a day an'- He stopped himself. There was no use to push it any further than he already had tonight. Aye, get some res' Aash. Meh goin' t' go check on Sissy. Meh dun feel righ' stayin' 'ere af'er startlin' ye lik t'at. It nay be righ' o' meh t'do." He let out a long breath ending with a kiss. He readied himself to stand and leave, regret deep in his heart. He just couldn't get it right with the most amazing girl he'd ever met. He was deeply frustrated with himself.

[Aasha]

Aasha had blushed when he mentioned counting kisses, thinking of how much she enjoyed kissing him back. She didn't respond though, still trying to come to grips with her thoughts, her mind and heart split and arguing internally. I didna wants ya to leave...didna wants the nights ta end. Jus'...didna knows how ta ask if'n ya wanted to stays here 'stead o' goin' backs to town. I... She blinked, trying to shut her thoughts off, the longing she felt for things to be as he described deeply affecting her. Even going to bed wasn't going to help, not when she was running more from herself and what she felt than from him. Aasha lowered her lashes, breathing deeply to try and calm herself.

I ain't gonna be marr'ed much longer; she muttered. Eyes widening in shock, she forgot all about her own struggles and looked at him. Did he say he was going back to town? Her eyes were shimmering, voice choked when she was able to talk. Yer...yer leavin'? I thoughts ya was gonna counts kiss...umm...yah...guessin' Aayla needs ya...I... Aasha withdrew completely, her shoulders slumping, head dropping to her chest.

Her watery eyes got the best of him. He was losing ground fast. He was making her more upset by trying to make her less upset. This wasn't working. Time to just lay it all out. His voice came out choked in fear, sadness and pending tears. "Aash...deep in meh 'eart, meh nay wants t'be leavin'." He sighed. "Meh jes' so 'fraid of losin' ye Aash fer sayin' som't'in' ye nay be re'dy t' 'ear. Stupidly, meh tries t'run when t'at 'appens. Meh...meh jes' ken nay live wit the t'ought o' losin' ye." He bit his lip as the momentum grew. "T'e trut' be, meh wants t'be countin' kisses fer ye t'catch up ina mornin', meh wants t'be wakin' knowin' ye be jes' a room 'way frem meh, meh ne'er wants t'be leavin' yer side." He paused before blazing ahead. He was putting it all out there and letting her decide. "Aash, unless it means 'urtin' meh family, t'ere be not'in' meh nay be will t'do t'make ye 'appy. Ifn ye want'd t'be merri'd - meh buy ye a ring t'morry, ye only be wantin' c'mitment - meh be yers long as ye be 'avin' meh." He put his hand on her chin raising it so he could look her in the eyes, his voice lowered. "Aash, meh loves ye mor' t'en meh e'er t'ought possible. Meh jes' dun wants t'scare ye nay mores Aash...meh dun wants t'be pushin' ye away...an' meh nay be knowin' 'ow t'do t'at...nay wit'out yer 'elp." His eyes welled and a tear ran down his face. The fate of his desire for her resting in her hands.

The tone of his voice got to her, twisting a knife into her damaged heart. She didn't want to care this deeply, not for anyone, not after what Donnor had done...so why was his voice affecting her so profoundly? Not only his voice, it wasn't just that...she couldn't seem to turn her feelings off, no matter how hard she tried. Aasha met his eyes, seeing her own struggle with tears reflected there. I didna wants ya to go...bu'...if'n yer sist'r needs ya...I canna asks ya to stay. He kept taking, she wasn't even sure if he heard what she said as more words spilled from his lips. Aasha stiffened, knowing she'd tried to run each time he'd said something she wasn't ready to hear. He wanted to run then too? But he hadn't...how could she run away from how he felt if he couldn't?

Sighing deeply, Aasha whispered; I..I tole ya I'd be tryin'. I ain't re'dy to hears much Obli...jus'...I dun unn'rstand why ya ties me up in knots likes this. A fingertip hesitated, then traced where he'd bitten his lip gently. She was being painfully honest, scaring herself to death in the process. I canna shakes tha' pict're Obli. The one o' ya countin' kisses...o' me goin' ta sleeps wit' ya holdin' my hand...o' wakin' knowin' yer here... Aasha dropped her hand back to her side, shaking her head when he continued. I is marr'ed...I dun wants tha', nae wantin' ya to buys me nothin'. I wants...wants...

She didn't realize she'd dropped her head as she spoke, not until he raised her chin to look into his eyes. Aasha tried to resist, it was much easier to deny things when they weren't staring at her in the face. Ya does scares me though...I dunno how to tells ya wha' to do sos I ain't scar'd. If'n I'm feelin' all this an' I ain't ev'n been wit' ya... A deep blush stained her face. Aasha took a few deep breaths, trying to steady herself. I knows...knows I dun wants ya to go t'ni'te. Obli's tear tore into her already fragile emotions. Jus'...dun go Obli...ple'se?

[Aasha]

Obli felt a sense of calm as she touched his lip. Surprisingly it hadn't bled, which was a good start. He tilted his head down slightly so that her finger was resting between both of his lips, as if he were quieting himself or about to kiss her finger. When her voice stopped short of telling what she wanted, he pressed gently. He desperately wanted to know. "Aash, jes' tell meh. ple'se? Meh do, give or be an't'in' ye want, ifn ye jes' tell meh whet it be." He brushed his nose along the side of her face. "It nay be mat'rin' whet ye wants, meh be doin' e'eryt'in' t'see ye 'aves it. In t'e end, meh wants ye Aash an' meh be doin' an't'in' meh kens so meh ken tells t'e werld ye be mine. Meh a're'dy sent a let'r t'meh fam'ly tellin' t'em 'bout 'ow meh feel 'bout ye...tellin' t'em e'eryt'in'." To put it mildly, his family and hers had always seen things...differently. Now he stood in the middle, bridging oil and water together. He had no idea how, but he was damn sure he would force this to work.

Her words made his eyes widen slightly and forced a smile to form on his face, despite his best efforts to the contrary. "Well, meh t'inks meh livin' proof ye nay 'ave t' 'ave been wit som'one t' 'ave strong feelin's. Meh ne'er 'ad such strong feelin's fer an'one b'fer ye, an'...meh ne'er been with anyone b'fer." He mumbled the last part, moving his eyes away from hers. He wasn't sure why his broke the eye contact. It wasn't embarrassment; it wasn't discomfort - just a reaction he didn't understand. Her words pleading to him to stay broke through his last remaining fears. He hadn't scared her enough to make her want him to leave - and he didn't want to leave either. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. Meh nay be goin' an'where Aash. Nay unless yer righ' t'ere wit meh. Only place meh goin' t'nigh' be int' yer room t'wa'ch ye fall 'sleep - t'en righ' back 'ere t'do t'e same mehself." He brushed his lips against hers offering the most gentle of kisses before adding one last thing. "Jes' know, meh dun mean t'scare ye Aash, nay on p'rpose. 'Tis jes' meh gettin' lost in feelin' fer ye 'tings meh ne'er felt b'fer." He spoke softly, lost in the cauldron of emotions.

[Aasha]

How was it that with just a touch…when it wasn’t even him touching her, but her touching his lip…that small contact made deeper when he tilted his head…could turn her into a gibbering fool? Aasha shivered, the flicker of awareness that always seemed to be present when he touched her making itself known. Turning her head as his nose brushed along her face, she brought her hand up, lightly tracing along his jawline. I dunno ‘xactly Obli. I tole ya…I ain’t re’lly lets mys’lf wants. Her eyes lifted to his, sincerity in her voice. I dun wants ya ta change…nae wantin’ ya to be anythin’ bu’ who ya a’ready is. A large part of Aasha was screaming at her to move away, to ignore what he said and hide, just as she’d always done. Where had that gotten her? She wanted to be here with him, she could admit that to herself. Why was it so hard to tell him? Aasha knew the answer lay in her own insecurity. She was a great soldier, an even better pickpocket. She could hunt and fight with the best of them. But when it came to being a woman, she had been made to feel like she was lacking from those she trusted the most. First Aimar, who wouldn’t acknowledge their feelings publicly. Then by Donnor when he’d walked away from her with a callous disregard. He broke through her insecurities, forcing her to listen when he mentioned his family. He’d told them about her? Everything? Obli… her tone reflected panic, him loving her was one thing, but to share how he felt with others who would surely reject her? Wha’…wha’ did ya tells ‘em? Words tumbled over themselves in her haste to get them out. I wants ya ‘round, wants ta fig’re wha’ we’re feelin’, if’n wha’ I thinks I’m feelin’ is real. Wants ya ta be wit’ me, ta goes to sleep wit’ ya holdin’ me, ta wakes ‘side ya. I’m tryin’ to nae be scar’d o’ all tha’ I wants when I’m ‘round ya. Wants ta feel likes I’m des’rvin’ o’ ya…lovin’…me. Yer fam’ly ain’t gonna likes ya wit’ me, they ain’t gonna gives me nae chance to fig’re this ou’. They’s jus’ gonna wants me gone from yer life. They’re yer fam’ly. When they asks tha’ o’ ya, yer gonna be gone an’ I’m gonna be lef’ wit’ no h’art. I dun thinks I ken bears tha’.

She was so agitated that it never hit her what she’d said, nor what she was doing. Aasha wrapped her arms around him, burying her head in his chest and clinging. Fear of how she felt wasn’t important any longer, only that she be given a chance, something she was quite certain his family would not allow. She was even able to brush aside the bewilderment when he said he'd never been with anyone before. Nothing else was more important. Convinced this may be the only time she would get before the Generals, whose hatred of NNGO was legendary, would step in and forbid their newly budding relationship, Aasha put aside all of her inhibitions and let impulse rule. Helps me lose mys'lf in wha' I'm feelin' fer ya...ta nae thinks o' tom'rrow, jus' o' rights now. It was said as she moved her head from his chest, her hands caressing his lower back while she leaned in and kissed him, putting all of the pent up desire she had been denying into the contact. Until all she could feel was their lips together, breathing in his scent as she drew back enough to gaze into his eyes.

[Obli.]

Obli could hear the fear in her voice. To be fair to her, she really didn't know the inner workings of his family life. Logically, she had every reason to be afraid, but in reality it was a lot less frightening than one would think. After letting her spill some of her concerns, he places a gentle finger to her lips and kissed her. "Aash, meh jes' be tellin' t'em t'e truth. T'ey be findin' ou' sooner or lat'r. Meh jes' be tellin' t'em t'at meh fell in love wit an amazin' woman, t'at meh be t'e luckiest man 'live since ye likes meh back...t'at meh wants to in'r'duce ye t' t'em som'day soon and t'at meh sur' t'ey be seein' ye fer t'incre'ible person ye be." He looked at her lovingly. "An' aye, meh tell t'em who ye be." He shrugged. "Meh nay be 'shamed o' who ye be Aash. It jes' dun mat'r t'meh - ne'er did." He said it mater-of-factly. "Meh be righ't 'ere t'fig're it all ou' wit ye. Meh be wit ye always, holdin' ye, wakin' wit ye - showin' ye t'at ye des'rve mor' love t'en meh ken give ye. Meh gladly be givin' ye all t'at an' mor'." He was earnest and sincere. Meh dun t'ink ye gets meh Aash. Ifn meh be lookin' fer fam'ly 'pproval o' who meh loves, meh ne'er would o' stepped one foot near ye. But t'ey nay be askin' meh t'leave ye, or t'ey be lookin' fer dis'pointmen'. Meh ne'er told t'em who t'ey ken an' ken nay be lovin' - meh be damn'd ifn meh let mehself be told who meh ken an' ken nay love. 'Tis t'at easy Aash...plus, meh nay be askin' t'em t'give ye a chance - meh tellin' t'em." He pulled her in close to him and a firm and reassuring embrace. "Aash, ifn yer 'eart be comin' wit meh, t'en all t'e mor' re'son fer meh to stay wit ye - where meh wants t'be an'way. N'b'dy goin' t'be makin' meh leaves ya - e'er."

Her desire flowed over him, pushing the air out from his lungs. He was drowning in her kiss the love he felt for he erupted from inside. He was hot, he burned and he only wanted more of that feeling. His hands had a mind of their own, gliding all over her back and shoulders. Feeling, touching, remembering. He lost himself in her eyes, but not before he spoke softly to her. "Aash, dun worry 'bout t'morry. Meh be righ' 'ere. Meh be righ' next t'ye fer t'e rest o' meh life ifn ye be 'avin' meh. Meh be yers, a'ways." He swept away in her gaze. Falling, falling hard in love with her. She was all he wanted - there would never be another woman for him.

[Aasha]

She relaxed slightly, letting his words soothe her agitation, some of the desperation she was feeling melting away. Aasha hadn’t wanted to break the kiss, not even to catch her breath. Her comment on losing herself in the moment much truer than she could imagine, with kissing him she had done just that. A look of wonderment was in her eyes by the time he was done speaking. Ya tole ‘em all o’ tha’? As she listened, Aasha watched his face, seeing the conviction when he spoke. Obli, I ain’t ‘sham’d o’ who I am, I’m proud to be a memb’r o’ NNGO. They a’ways treated me rights, ev’n aft’r... She couldn’t bring herself to say his name, not wanting to spoil the moment. He was already between them too much as it is, saying Donnor's name while being held in Obli’s arms just felt wrong. It ain’t cuz I’m NNGO tha’ I said I was tryin’ to des’rve yer love. The word was getting easier to say, at least in regards to his feelings. It wasn’t the word that bothered her, not nearly as much as the meaning behind it. For Aasha, saying I love you meant forever, it wasn’t something that could be walked away from. She was just coming to terms with the fact that she could have feelings for him and Donnor at the same time. Recognizing that what she felt was deeper, that the pull she felt wasn’t just physical but emotional, was harder. Somehow, Obli’s reassurances made even that easier than she expected. I been tole mos’ o’ my life how us’less I am. I ain’t wantin’ ya to fig’re tha’ maybe tha’ be true. Tha’ I’m only good a’ bein’ NNGO...nae so much a’ b’longin’ to anyb’dy.

Aasha couldn’t hold back a smile, a teasing lilt to her comment; Yer tellin’ ‘em is ya? An’ ya when ya tells, they’d be list’nin’? Her eyes went wide when the significance of what she’d babbled in panic came back to her. How had it happened? She had fought having any feelings for him, how the hell did it go deeper when she didn’t want it to? It had been crushed once, how had her heart recovered enough to give it to him? Breathing erratically, heart racing, vision blurring, Aasha stared at Obli. She loved him...it was different than what she felt for Donnor, still too new to fully grasp. Tingling from head to toe, and not just from his hands caressing her, Aasha leaned heavily against him. She wanted this; even the alarm over her own feelings didn’t change that. She wanted him... Pushing back her apprehension, Aasha tightened her arms as she whispered; I’d likes tha’ Obli...

[Obli.]

Obli nodded as she spoke. If this was going to be what he wanted it to be, he was going to have to stand beside her - even when it was tough. He was prepared for it. "Aye meh be 'opin' ye nay be 'shamed o' who ye is..." He chuckled. "T'at jes' silly. Ye be knowin' t'at we be comin' frem dif'rent places. Whet meh be sayin' is t'at it dun mat'r t'meh. Meh nay be 'fraid o' whet pe'ple be t'inkin'." Obli looked down at her resting in his arms. His mind focused only on the moment. He took her in with his eyes - all of her. From the first hair on the top of her head all the way down to the toe of her boot. There was no questioning how beautiful she looked - but stopping there, only at the surface, was a grave injustice to her. Just the sight of her was enough to make his eyes light up with intrigue and awe - but it was who she was that tugged at the strong emotions he felt for her. "Ifn ye be settlin' fer all meh love Aash - ye ne'er come close t'gettin' whet meh t'inks ye des'rve. Ye be wort' more t'meh t'en meh ken e'er give ye ina lif'time. But meh be t'rilled ye be givin' meh t'e chance, all t'e same."

He held her close as she leaned into him. This was going to work...somehow. He just knew it. The closer she was to him the more he drew her scent. His desire became more apparent with each breath. He tried to recall exactly how he had gotten to this moment. An honest appraisal of the history was counter-intuitive to the moment they shared right now. There had to be something more to it and Obli was beginning to feel it. Destiny, soulmates, purpose - he didn't know, but it was not chance. There was no way chance took a moment of him being mouthy and turned it into this. He watched her eyes as she spoke. He smiled. "T'en meh gives ye jes' whet ye likes Aash. Meh be yers an' nayone elses. Meh ne'er wants not'in' else but t'be yers." He kissed her swimming in his desires and love for her.

[Aasha]

Drawing back had been a bad idea, apprehension started bubbling up before she could stop it.

- Breathe Ash...its alright, you'll be fine. It's safe to love him, he won't hurt you.

Yah, you thought that before about Donnor, and it wasn't safe. Look at where that got you.

So what if you were in love with Donnor and he left? Obli is not Donnor. Nor is he like Donnor. Hell girl, listen to him. He just told you that he's putting you before anything, including his family!

No one does that. Saying and doing are not the same thing.

It's done, he's told them about you knowing how they feel about NNGO, and doesn't care if they approve. He did it for you, now deal with how you feel for him. You said it yourself, you gave him your heart. You can't take it back...not the words or the feelings. You knew it was deeper, even if you didn't want to admit it. No one fights liking someone, even you're not that big a ninny. You were fighting loving him, and lost. Just maybe this isn't the loss you think it is, maybe you won something better. Nothing you did scared him off, not even drawing blood. He's here to stay..stop being an idgit and just breathe... -

Aasha sighed, focusing inward had told her the same thing her heart was trying to point out. She wouldn't deny what she said, nor how she felt. She was a lot of things, dishonest wasn't one of them. I ain't 'sham'd o' ya neith'r...an' willna be shamin' ya wit' yer fam'ly if'n I meets 'em all. Jus' ain't prom'sin' ta nae stabs one o' two o' 'em. The teasing helped, she finally caught her breath and relaxed a little, letting his warmth and comfort seep in and take away the chills that had followed her apprehension. I ain't ev'r been 'fraid o' wha' oth'rs thinks. Used ta 'em thinkin' the wors' o' me. Jus' dun wants ya to have to be goin' thr'u' it too.

She blushed as his eyes traveled over her, wishing she could read his thoughts, or understand what it was he was seeing. I ain't settlin'...nae if'n yer givin' me all yer love. Its mor'n I 'xpect'd... She bit back the self derision she almost voiced, he saw something in her she didn't, or couldn't see. Aasha resolved to do as he asked, to treasure what was freely given without worrying about tomorrow.

She couldn't quite make herself tell him exactly how she felt...not yet...a sliver of fear kept those words back. Aasha could, and would stop fighting it...for both their sakes. She meant to lighten the mood further, to dispel the tension she'd unwittingly raised with her internal debate. It didn't work. If anything, his lips on hers heightened it, raising her awareness of him to a level she'd never experienced. Aasha returned the kiss passionately, holding nothing back in her response. It was more than desire, the love she left unvoiced expressed in the one way she wasn't afraid to show.

[Aasha]

Obli watch as she appeared to be lost in thought. What he wouldn't give to know what she was thinking. He wasn't sure he would like what he learned, but it didn't stop him from wondering. He chuckled as she teased him. "Ye ken stabs Afonuvin, 'e be used t'it, an' prolly d'serves it. Jes' nay be too 'armful." He joked back, making a mental note he might have to actually stop her from following through with it. "Pe'ple be t'inkin' whet t'ey be t'inkin'. Nay be meanin' much t'meh, 'nless it be ye, sissy an' such." He brushed his hand across her face, thumb and forefinger finding her earlobe and massaging it. "Plus, meh be t'inkin' t'at meh jes' be jes' crazy 'bout ye...t'at 'as t'be mor' impor'ent t'en ot'er's 'toughts...righ'?" He kissed the ear he'd been massaging.

Obli smiled as she spoke of her expectations. "Ye know Aash, as daft as we ken be som'times...meh t'inks we is goin' t'be re'l goo' t'get'er. Meh 'cited t'be yers. Jes' yers." He kissed her again. He couldn't get enough of it. The taste of her lips was exhilarating, the smell of her skin provocative. He wanted her, needed her, desired her, yearned for her - was hers. Just knowing she wanted him around and had some kind of feelings her him warmed him in a way that was new and pleasing.

Pfft...Ain't sure I ken prom'se nae to be too harmf'l ta 'im. All tha' flow'ry talk hes spewin' makes me feel sicks ta my belly, an' makes me wanna cuts 'is tongue ou' jus' so he'd be shuttin' up. Aasha shivered as he massaged her earlobe, shifting to get closer. Aye...wha' ya be thinkin' is more impo'tent...

Aasha was barely thinking, having given herself over to sensations the moment the last barrier crashed down. She was excited too, though she wasn't sure they were talking of the same type of excitement. She was lost in the sensual haze he'd wrapped around her as effectively as his arms, drugging her with kisses. The one thing that came to mind was how well they fit together, with him she didn't have to strain up to reach his lips. She was nestled against him almost perfectly, feeling fragile yet safe in his arms. Even that feeling paled compared to the desire rapidly spiraling out of control. Breathing erratically after thoroughly kissing him, Aasha whispered; I knows som'thin' I wants Obli...o' rath'r som'one...

Obli looked at her surprised at the mention of her wanting something, but he was happy all the same. Her vagueness was maddening, he couldn't resist asking. "Well, dun keep meh guessin' Aash!" He exclaimed with intrigue "Ye tell meh yer wants and ifn meh ken do it, 'tis yers fer t'e 'avin'." He looked at her with desire and bewilderment. He couldn't imagine what she would want, especially right now. He ran his fingers through her hair tenderly, anticipating her next words. She was everything to him. The idea of endless moments, such as this one, made him grin.

Being impulsive was one thing, taking the initiative when Obli didn't understand what she meant...Aasha turned bright red when he asked what she wanted. There wasn't an easy way to say it, nor could she be coy, it just wasn't in her nature. Swallowing hard, she murmured; I wants ya Obli...nob'dy else, nothin' else...jus'...you... Closing her eyes on a sigh as his fingers combed through her hair, she unerringly found his lips with hers, kissing him deeply until her embarrassment at her admission eased. Her cheeks were still flushed, this time with desire when she paused to breathe. If he took long to respond, or worse, looked at her in contempt or disgust, she would bolt for her room. It was late enough that it would be expected anyway.

He saw the blood rush to her face. She was embarrassed? Why? "Aash, ye 'ave meh. Meh be y-" What she was actually saying sunk in. His eyes widened with shock and slowly softened. She wanted him and he desired her. He kissed her, pulled back and searched deep into her clover eyes. "Aash, meh wants ye too. N'b'dy else buy ye. Meh be yers fer t'e takin' - all o' meh Aash." He leaned in to kiss her again. Passion flared in him, his body bristled with desire. Every touch sent shivers through his spine. "Meh loves ye Aash. Meh wants ye like meh ne'er wants an'b'dy b'fer." His hands traced the lines of her body, tantalized by the feel of her soft skin.

How could a person feel heavy and light, burning up and chilled, all at the same time? There was no way she could explain what she meant, and it seemed like he didn't understand. How was she...Aasha knew the moment comprehension dawned, Obli's expression gave it away. The kiss helped eased her urge to bolt, his searching look increasing the flush to her cheeks. The words were unnecessary, Aasha saw her own desire reflected back in his eyes, causing a flare of heat to travel through her, sensitizing her skin to his touch. The sum total of her experience was Donnor, she had seldom been the aggressor, and wasn't quite sure how to proceed. Obli was too important to her, she didn't want to hurt him in any way. Was a moment's passion worth losing him if her bumbling attempts to be seductive failed and he was hurt?

Obli didn't give her a chance to decide, a tingling was left in the wake of his hands. She'd already lost control, he was pushing her further away from recapturing it, even for him. I ain't felt likes this 'fore eith'r... Aasha took a deep breath, then nudged his chest gently, breaking their embrace long enough to move so she was sprawled partially in his lap facing him. She didn't dare looking into his eyes, instead running her fingers down his chest to the bottom of his shirt. Slipping her hands beneath, then sliding them up and around to trace the scars she'd seen once before on the beach. It was then that she remembered her own scars, ones she'd grown used to, even found beauty in, they were a mark of her survival. But they were a beauty she'd only recently come to appreciate...not one she was used to sharing. He'd seen part of them and not rejected her...but all...Aasha reluctantly broke the contact, her fingers hadn't yet traced each mark. Still not lifting her eyes, she removed her blouse, the thin shift she wore underneath hiding little even in the dim light from the fire.

Obli watched as she removed the blouse, desire raging inside of him. He saw the scar on her left shoulder she had showed him a while ago - after a heated moment in a tavern, but there were so many others. Enthralled, Obli's hand reached out and touched the scar he was most familiar with, feeling every bump and valley. Then he moved to the next and kept working until he'd touched everyone he could see taking them all in with his eyes too. He leaned back, propping himself up with one hand as he worked the buttons of his shirt with the other, following her lead. The flaps of the shirt fell to the side exposing more of his torso, including the scar that ran down the center of his torso, just below his chest. It was smooth and the memory of the pain was still fresh. This would be the hardest scar to explain to her.

He slowly reached out, placing his fingers behind her head and drawing her towards him. As he pulled her closer he slowly relaxed his supporting arm, lowering himself gently on the the rug, bringing her within inches of his face. "Meh love ye Aash." He whispered to her, eyes begging her to take him. "Ye be 'avin' nay ide'r 'ow much it be meanin' t'meh t'be sharing t'is moment, fer t'e first time, wit ye. 'Tis perf'ct, jes' like ye be perf'ct t'meh" His control sailed away, he was only in this one moment, with her and the raw passion and desire he held for her.

[Aasha]

The last thing Aasha expected him to do was trace each and every scar that showed. Flashing back to the night she'd shown him part of them, she began to wonder if this is the reaction he'd held back. It was funny what the passing of a month could do, how feelings and attitudes could change. Had he touched them then, it would have been rejected, more blood spilled for what was meant to be comfort. Now...now a thousand butterflies followed the touch, her heart melting when she met his eyes. It only deepened the desire she felt, making her want to show him everything, to feel his fingertips on every inch of her skin.

She was trembling when he leaned back, longing for more than just a touch. Aasha reached out, letting her finger trail down his chest, following his hands as he unbuttoned his shirt. She was looking at her fingers against the broad expanse of his chest, until they traced a smooth, smaller scar just below. Aasha was familiar with scars, especially those inflicted with a blade, and this one had been. Not a dagger, it was too long for that. A sword? Her eyes flew up to his face at the exact moment he placed his fingers behind her head.

Her smile was soft, unconsciously alluring. Fingertips grazing across to his arms, then up to his shoulders as she followed him down to the rug. The position reversed from earlier in the tavern, though Aasha had no intention of scrambling away, or of keeping any distance between them. She didn't move her hands off his shoulders, nor try to prop herself up, instead pressing into him, the material of her shift the only barrier marring their contact. Aasha searched his eyes, losing herself in the swimming cauldron of emotions. I'm hopin' it means leas' half as much ta ya as it does ta me Obli...tha' be lots mor'n I ken ev'r hopes fer... Closing the tiny gap between her lips and his, Aasha kissed him, thrilling in the feel of him beneath her, of the perfection of the moment.

[Aasha]

Obli pushed his lips into her kiss. He nibbled her bottom lip, gently dragging his teeth along her lip before letting it go. He looked into her eyes tenderly, a small sparkle formed in his eyes. "'Alf as much be mor' t'en ye ken 'ope fer? Meh ken try t'be makin' it mean less t'me - t'meet yer 'opes, but meh ken nay be pr'misin' ye t'at meh ken." He grinned warmly at her and drew her in for another kiss. The feel of her body pressed against his was enough to send him over the edge. His hands caressed her back, tugging softly at her shift. He rolled them onto their side, he free hand running through her hair and down her side. His eyes showed alarm as his hands reached the middle of her thigh and his fingers danced across her fishnet stockings. He propped himself up to make sense of this to discover the had cut slits in the side of her pants. A quick glance showed off a hidden dagger. He leaned back down on his side eyes filled with gleeful surprise. "Ye be jes' fill'd wit surprises Aash." He kissed her quickly pulling back to admire the beauty of her alluring face. His eyes slid down as he recalled the scar he'd seen on her chest. His fingers traced the erratic line as he imagined how it must have hurt at one point. Now, it was simply intriguing - at least to him. He looked up at her without moving his hand, desire exuded from his eyes. He carefully rolled her onto her back, his body following hers. Looking down at her he kissed along her neck until he could tease her lips with his. Raising himself from her, so he was resting on his knees, he let his shirt fall effortlessly from his shoulders. He leaned back down against her nostrils flaring as he drew her scent in along her neck, stopping as his face hung just above hers. "Meh be wantin' ye to 'ave meh Aash. Meh nay be 'oldin' an't'in' back frem ye." He kissed her again, swept away in the moment of passion.

The sound that slipped out when his teeth teased her lip was somewhere between a growl and a purr, heat licking along her nerve endings causing her entire body to ache with need. She could barely breathe, let along speak, but managed to whisper; dun try...dun prom'se nothin'...jus' feel. Ya a're'dy pas' wha' I hoped... She only vaguely noticed when her shift fell free of her pants, focusing too intently on him. Aasha let her hands roam down slowly from his shoulders, slipping around to trace the contours of his back, lingering on the scars she hadn't finished exploring earlier. Frustration showed in her expression when he pulled away yet again, breaking the kiss she was rapidly losing herself in. Fill'd wit'... Narrowing her eyes, Aasha growled. He was trying to drive her insane...and yet claimed she was his first? How could he possibly be twisting her inside out without any prior experience?

As if proving her point, Obli's fingers found the worst of her scars, the gentle touch saying without words that it didn't disgust him, that he found her desirable, his eyes only confirming. Aasha sighed, trembling slightly as he rolled her to her back, her hands continuing their travels until resting right above his pants. She wasn't sure how much more she could handle of his teasing, not when she had no control to speak of. Each kiss built upon the last, leaving her breathless and weak beneath him. Aasha's hands slid lower, just inside his waistband, her desire to feel his skin gliding against hers intensifying to almost painful levels.

Dropping one hand to her side, the other moving around to his chest, Aasha leveraged herself up while pushing on him gently. Obli...waits...I... Cheeks flushed, Aasha sighed, drawing air into her lungs along with the intoxicating scent that was him. Nae here... she choked out before slipping from beneath him to stand. Aasha bent to unlace her boots then kicked them off, straightening as her fingers untied her belt. Before she could lose her nerve, she let the pants fall. The stockings quickly followed, along with the dagger tucked inside. Aasha stepped out of them until she stood clad only in the shift, looking down to meet his eyes. Ya said ya'd be countin' kisses when I drifts ta sleep...an' I'm meanin' fer us ta sleeps onna bed. Holding out her hand, she whispered; I'm wantin' ya ta have me Obli. Tha' means seein'...an' feelin' all o' me...

[Aasha]

Obli moved fluidly as she pushed against him, her cautionary words moved him. He hadn't fought this hard to give her all his love to turn around a ruin it in one heated moment. Fear that he might have made her run away again edged through his veins. Her following words and actions snuffed out even the slightest hint of fear. He watched as the boot skittered across the living room floor and sat there transfixed as her pants fell to the floor, seemingly in one fluid motion. As she laid the dagger down, he couldn't help but realize that this was likely the first time ever he'd seen her without a knife...somewhere on her person. It was a whole new level of trust he had never really expected to come to fruition. He looked at her as she stood before him, wearing only her shift. She was both precious and delicate, yet solid and stunning. He rose to his feet and stalked over to her, overwhelming desire was guiding him now. Placing his hand over hers, he enveloped her in an embrace, her hands loosely held behind her back. "Yer beauty be jes' so enchatin' Aash. Meh desir' fer ye goes so deep int' meh soul." He stopped talking to kiss her continuing along her cheek to her ear, inundating himself in the sweetness of her skin. Her words settle in on him. "Us?" He questioned softly, not looking for an answer, more realizing the gravity of that statement. They were together. He was hers and she was his. "Aye, us." He said with peace in his voice and a loving smile. "Meh be makin' sure ye 'ave lots o' kisses t'be makin' up ina mor'in'. Kind o' like t'is. His lips met hers, his tongue teasing he outer edges of her lips. "Meh be 'avin' ye Aash an' meh ne'er letin' go. Meh be 'njoyin' e'ery blissful minute o' gazin' at ye an' touchin' yer ten'er skin fer years t'come. Ye be mine an' meh be yers. Meh nay wants it an'ot'er way." He placed a passionate kiss on her lips and slowly started moving back to the only room he hadn't been in yet, still holding her close.

[Aasha]

For once in her life, there wasn't even a hint of the fear that Aasha had come to expect. She knew with a heart deep certainty that Obli wouldn't turn away from her, not here, not now. There was no embarrassment at standing in so little clothing, no self doubts, no hesitation. Aasha's smile was sensual, her awareness of him clearly reflected in her face. It widened when he rose and approached her to take her hand, her chin lifting to keep their eyes locked. Even when he brought her hands behind her to embrace her, she didn't feel threatened, nor trapped. A sense of wonder followed that realization, that she trusted him that completely.

Leaning against him when he held her, Aasha pressed her lips into his chest, sucking his skin lightly as she inhaled. She didn't have to know the entire meaning of his statement, his tone said it all. Knowing that he found her that desirable humbled her, yet gave her a confidence she had lost for a while. Us... she repeated softly, enjoying the contrast between her softly rounded curves and his muscled physique. His smile made her heart flutter, his teasing kisses caused it to race. Aasha sucked his tongue into her mouth, teasing back before releasing. Nae t'morr'w 'memb'r...jus' now...an' I'm meanin' ta makes now las' a long time... The sense of belonging deepened, a destiny opening before her that she'd not envisioned.

It was hard to walk backwards, even with him leading, not when he kept distracting her with his lips. Afraid she would get her legs tangled in his and bring them both crashing to the ground, she kissed him passionately, then moved until she was walking beside him, urging him towards the open doorway.

Directly inside the room lay the bed, an armoire to the right closest to the window, a small table beside it where a candlestick lay, ready to be lightened. She had no intention of worrying about it, relying on her familiarity of the room and the shaft of moonlight coming through the window, leading him to the edge of the bed. Once there, she smiled, blushed, then fumbled with his belt. Feeling silly when her fingers refused to cooperate, Aasha pushed him back to the mattress, kneeling to remove his boots as a means of regaining composure. One followed the other to the floor, the soft thunk as the hit the only sound save her ragged breathing. Not giving herself time to falter, Aasha climbed onto the bed, her thighs pressed on either side of his waist. She wasn't concerned with his pants any longer, too intent on exploring the broad expanse of his chest, her hands sliding over the contours lovingly. Meeting his eyes, she pulled the shift over her head, letting it drop to the side before leaning forward, her lips following the path her hands had just taken.

[Obli.]

Us... The word sounded so nice coming from her soft voice. The idea that they were anything other than just friends was still fresh and exciting. He had longed for this for months now and finally after trying for so long - he was with her. All his worldly cares drifted away. When he got his tongue back from her his eyes smiled into hers. "T'nigh' ne'er 'as t' end." He whispered breathlessly.

The push to the bed and the following forcefulness triggered something in Obli. He pulled her against his as she finished kissing his chest. The exotic feel of the skin contact was exhilarating. He kissed her as the passion built, trying to push the love he felt for her into her through their connected lips. When it became too much for him to bear, he gently moved himself across the bed and out from under her. Standing at the side of the bed, he slipped his belt off and took Aasha's hands, placing them on the sides of his hips. Ever so gently, he slid her hands down just an inch. The final barrier falling away as he stood before her like he'd never done before. He slid back next to her, reaching out to cradle her face in his hands. "Meh loves ye Aash, mor' t'en meh ken e'er tell ye." With just a kiss and an embrace, the building desire and passion overtook him and he lost himself in the moment with Aasha. There wouldn't ever be a distinct him and her again, just the two of them. He couldn't want for more.

[Aasha]

The smile lit up her eyes. She knew the night would end eventually, but she didn't care. Hearing him say it didn't have to was enough. The rush of desire was heady, Aasha molded herself to him when he pulled her close, deepening the kiss.

Her protestation over this kiss breaking was more noticeable, Aasha's distress manifested in a growl when he moved from beneath her. She meant to pull him back, her hands already reaching out when he took hold of them, her gaze lifting to his before lighting upon each inch of his chest, and lower. She needed little encouragement when he slid her hands down, pushing at the material impatiently. Lips parted in a sigh, her fingertips gently grazed across his hips. She tried to be patient, her hands barely caressing as he slid beside her. Tried...and failed...Aasha was too aroused to be still. Dun tell... she whispered huskily; ...jus' show...ple'se... Kissing him sensually, Aasha urged him to his back once more, sliding full length against him. Letting their desire take them to new heights together.

[Aasha]

Obli laid next to Aasha. One arm tightly wound around her the other gently stroking through her hair, along her shoulder and down her side. Having shared a moment more enthralling than anything he had ever imagined with her, holding her close seemed perfect. As his hand slowly made another pass down her side, he placed gentle kisses across her shoulder all the way up her neck until he reached her cheek. "Eigh'." He whispered softly in her ear, with a smile she probably wouldn't see. Stopping his gentle strokes only to use both arms to hold her close to him. He dug his nose into her hair and inhaled deeply, her sweet scent exciting him. That wasn't the half of it though. Everything about her made him bristle with more thoughts, feelings and emotions then he could ever describe. He touched her face, the lengths of his fingers rubbing back and forth. They slowly found their way towards her mouth, teasing her lips as they brushed by. He wanted for nothing. He was content.

Aasha was nestled against him, an arm lying across the one wrapped around her. The fingers of the other absently caressing his hip. Her eyes were closed, a soft moan following in the wake of his caresses. Mmmmm...ain't sleepin' yets... She felt no regret, instead an ever growing feeling of completeness overcame her. Aasha wasn't sure how she ended up here, with him, especially given their start. Nor did she care, instead reveling in the certainty that this was where she was meant to be.

Aasha smiled softly when he moved his head to her hair. Tilting her face towards him and opening her eyes as his fingers traveled across, lightly nipping when they passed over her lips. She brought her arm up from his hip to his head, her thumb rubbing tenderly. Aasha wasn't ready to say it aloud, afraid somehow that it would change things between them. Whether she did or not, her heart and mind were in agreement, she loved him and didn't want the feeling to end. It was almost too perfect to be real, her soul leading her towards him before her heart or mind could catch on, all culminating in this moment with him. He amazed her, the tenderness and affection coming so easily to him, all directed to her. Warmed by emotions, the long day and even longer more passionate night were catching up, making her drowsy. Aasha brushed a kiss across his cheek, closing her eyes and murmured; Yer mines an' I'm yers Obli... as she drifted off to sleep.

[Aasha]

A small shudder ran through Obli at the start of her gentle touch ending at her kiss. A wide smile formed as she claimed him as hers, offering herself as his. It was the sense of belonging that made the whole thing worthwhile. As she drifted to sleep, Obli thought back over the path that lead him to her. At their first meeting, he'd called her a hound, she'd thrown him in jail for it, countless squabbles and some stabbings later and they were in love. Well, he was in love, though he sensed she might be too - even if she hadn't said it. The whole thing was rather unconventional. It didn't matter to him. Only thing that did matter to him was being right here, next to her, holding her, and never letting go. He placed more ever-so-gentle kisses along her neck, up the side of her face, ending at the top of her head. He whispered "Sixt'en" quietly into her ear so as not to wake her. Putting his other arm around her, he held her close as he slowly drifted asleep. The idea of waking up next to the woman he loved setting the stage for blissful dreams.

As the sun rose in the sky, a ray of sunlight founds its was to Obli's eye lid where is danced patiently until it woke him. He was awe struck by the beauty that lay before him. Still in his tender embrace laid Aasha. His head raised a little to he could scan her as she lay in his arms. He was mystified by her beauty. Yet beyond the obvious physical beauty lay something just as appealing , if not more. An inner tenderness that was underlying the fierceness of a woman that would truly go to any lengths for those she cares about. It was really all too much for Obli, but he adored her just the same. Willing to give her all of his affections, knowing he'd never be able to give her as much adoration as she deserved.

It occurred to him that they would both be looking for something to eat soon. The bubbling of a nearby stream caught his attention and the plan was formed. With protest, he carefully separated himself from her, trying hard not to disturb her. Grabbing his trousers and putting them on. The rest of the clothes were unnecessary. He couldn't resist the idea of one more kiss, so he touched his lips to her cheek. Soaking up the experience of kissing his true love. "Se'ent'en" He whispered. He quietly walked out of the room, through the kitchen and out the door. Taking his fishing pole from Kael, he headed off in the direction of the stream. Passing her vegetable garden, he took note that there were several delicacies that would go well with an early meal. She wouldn't mind him borrowing a couple, would she? He doubted it.

Aasha stretched languidly as she began to wake. A small smile forming on her lips, widening when she thought of the night before. It had been perfect, he was perfect...she loved him.

Full awareness was returning slowly, the first hint that something was wrong was the lack of warmth at her back. Had he rolled away? The bed wasn't that big...Aasha's eyes flew open, rolling quickly to face where Obli lay...only...no Obli. Thinking of how many times she'd ended up on the floor with bad dreams, she peered over the edge. Still no...sitting up, Aasha rapidly scanned the room. He wasn't here...maybe he got cold and went to put more wood on the fire? It was a weak excuse, one that she grasped at tightly, trying to keep the pain at bay.

Not bothering with clothes, Aasha wound a blanket around her, padding silently through the house, her heart sinking when each room turned up empty. She ended at the rug, staring into the now burned out fire. Much like the fire, her feelings for Obli had burned brightly through the night, ending in ashes. She had believed every word he said, soaking it up as truth. More the fool her, he had left just as easily as Donnor, running even faster than he had.

Her natural defenses rose up, burying the sting of betrayal with anger. How dare he make a fool of her? She had given him so much of herself, just for him to throw it back in her face? Hell, she should have just stabbed him and walked away. At least she hadn't admitted how deeply her feelings ran...she shuddered at the thought, imagining him laughing with his friends in the tavern at her foolishness. Aasha wasn't thinking properly any longer, hadn't since she found the house empty. Forgetting her state of dress as she ran towards the back door, intent on finding him and making him pay.

Fishing had gone so well, Obli opted to try his luck again. Success! This was a great river to fish. Probably because hardly anyone made it out this far with any kind of regularity. Tickled with himself, and knowing Aasha would be pleased he sauntered back toward her house with the two fish he had caught. Breathing in the fresh air and taking in this little slice of heaven she called home. Stopping by the vegetable field, he selected a few of the nicer ones placing two in a bag he brought with him. The other veggie was tossed into the air repeatedly while he walked happily back towards her house. Rounding the corner, Obli saw Aasha standing in the door way. He called out to her as he got closer. "Heyoo t'ere Ms. Se'ent'en-Kiss-" The look on her face stopped his words in an instant. She was not happy in the slightest. Placing the remaining veggie in the bag he dashed over to her - as fast as he could, nearly dropping the food he'd gotten for them. "Aash, whet be 'rong? Ye be a'righ'?" Concern and worry were thick in his voice. What could possibly have gone wrong? He glanced down at the sack that held the vegetables, eyes going wide in realization. His head lawered. "T'e veggies? Meh s'rry, we dun 'aves t'eat t'em. Meh nay be t'inkin' ye mind...'onest. Jes' t'at t'ey be goin' gr'at wit t'ese fish...an' yer garden be jes' full o' veggies so meh nay t'ink a few missin' be so bad. But ye be righ' meh should o' ask'd ye. Meh jes' did nay wants t'wake ye. Ye be sleepin'...so beautiful...meh was 'opin' ye be wakin' t' t'e smell o' a good meal an'..." Finally. He stopped himself from rambling enough to look up at her apologetically.

She was beyond reason, opening the door to see Obli sauntering up without a care in the world did not help her disposition at all. If she had a dagger on her, she would have thrown it right at his fool head. How dare he walk out on her! Sev'nte'n kisses? Her eyes were flashing as she turned, scooping up her pack she had laid by the door.

Aasha stalked outside, tilting her head up to keep her eyes on his, the pain in her gaze well masked by rage. She vaguely took note that he was walking fine, the empty bed flashing in and out of her mind. His first? Bah...obviously not, no blood, no soreness...no way. It only fed her anger...the entire bag flew towards his head before she reached him. Why w'uldna I be a'rights? Nae likes I woke 'lone..nae likes ya tole me ya w'uldna le'ves then walked ou' o' nothin'. Did ya fergets som'thin'? Yer shirt? Ya ken finds a new one. My h'art? Keeps it, ain't nae use ta me broke now'ys. Jus' go 'fore..jus' go... Gets 'way from me 'fore I find som'thin' ta be breakin' mor'n yer h'art wit'! Her fist connected blindly once she was close enough, his explanation lost in her fit of temper.

He put his hand up to catch the bag. He caught a strap, but that didn't stop something smooth and hard in the sack from hitting his head. He was dazed as she ran at him and his hand lowered, placing the sac on the ground. As his head cleared, Obli put his arms around her and pulled her close to him. Partly to keep her from hitting him more, but mostly because she was tormented and he wanted nothing more than to make it go away. It was all a silly misunderstanding. "Aye Aash, meh did leaves ye. Meh took a walk down t' t'e stre'm an' got us some fish." He held up the fish. "T'en, meh stopped an pick'd a few o' yer veggies." He patted the bag with the veggies in it. "An' meh be opin' t'be cookin' fer ye...an' collect t'e se'ent'en kisses ye be owin' meh. Naybody else can pay t'at debt fer ye." He tightened his arms around her. "Meh place be righ' b'side ye Aash, naywhere else." He kissed the top of her head.

Aasha struggled and cursed when he pulled her close, trying to ignore the flash of heat between them. Hells bells, even her body was betraying her, sinking into him before she could stop herself, stiffening when she realized it. The brief respite was enough, she started to calm, began to hear what he was saying. Fish? Vegetables? He had muttered about vegetables before she threw the bag, what was it he said? Aasha turned bright red when the depth of her misunderstanding dawned on her. He left to fish? Wanted to surprise her with breakfast? And she repaid him with mistrust, suspicion, a bag to the head and a fist to his chest?

She stopped struggling, closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Obli...I... Aasha leaned against him heavily, unaware that the deep breath had dislodged the blanket. Wrapping her arms around him, she buried her head in his chest, holding him tightly. She felt like the worlds biggest fool, automatically thinking the worst. I thoughts ya lef'...I'm sorry...I...ya dun gots ta cook fer me. Aasha looked up then, blinking back the moisture that was trying to build up. Sev'nte'n...mor'n tha' to be makin' up fer this...I...ummm...I was lookin' forw'rd ta wakin' wit' ya. Didna 'xp'ct ya to be gone.

[Aasha]

Obli felt her slacken in his arms. The tension in her fading away into something more...calm. He rubbed her back as she buried her face into his bare chest. "'Tis a'ight Aash. Ye got 'urt t'at way. Pe'ple dun get o'er t'at stuff quick like. In time, ye be knowin' meh a'ways comin' back t'ye." He leaned back just enough to kiss her before breaking out into a chuckle, looking into her clover eyes. "Ye be tellin' meh, ye go t'all t'is tro'ble t'be 'irin' a cook, jes' t'tell 'im ye nay be wantin' 'im t'cook!? Dun be goin' daft on meh Aash, meh be doin' t'at fer bot' o' us." He grinned at her. "Meh tell ye whet, meh nay cook fer ye, meh cook fer mehself an anot'er person. Ifn ye know o' a fiery lass, who's radiant beauty meh jes' cherishes so, t'at be in'eres'd in ea'in' by t'e fire, ken ye sen' 'er meh way?" He winked at her teasingly. He picked up her sack, the one she threw at him, slung it over his shoulder - keeping an arm around her started moving towards the door to her house. "Ye jes' worry 'bout yer se'ent'en kisses ye be indebted t'meh fer. Ye be 'avin' years t'be wakin' up in meh arms - ifn meh 'as any say 'bout it." He tilted his head to the side, laying it gentle on top of hers. He slid the sack off his shoulder and held it in front of them and queried. "Whet ye be 'avin' in 'er t'at be so 'eavy...an' 'ard?" He chuckled.

Bu' I knows ya isna the same...sos it ain't fair o' me to be judgin' ya on wha' was done 'fore...nae ev'n if'n it were done to me. O' all folks, I ain't one wha' sh'uld be doin' tha'. Nae when its done ta me 'nuff fer me to know bett'r. She smiled when he laughed, the last dredges of the anger and embarrassment fading away with his amusement.

A teasing lilt entered her voice at his comment about cooking. Ya tole me no when I tried hirin' ya to cook...now yer tellin' me ya tooks the job an' didna lets me know? Winking playfully, she licked his chest. Yer sist'r is inna town, food'll be cold if'n yer waitin' fer her to show ups ou' here...an' I ain't sure she knows wheres I lives. Guess'n I'll jus' have ta be eatin' wit' ya aft'r all...

Removing the pressure off the blanket was a bad idea, the blanket went from slipping to pooling at her feet as he bent to pick up her bag. Aasha considered bending to retrieve it for all of two seconds. She almost burst out laughing when he put his arm around her and they started walking. She automatically stepped over the blanket to keep from getting tangled in it, her track record for landing on her bum was high enough already. He'd not noticed the blanket falling yet...she decided to see how long it took before he saw, so bit back her comment about desert first. I'm bettin' ta be owin' ya more kisses than tha'...ain't mindin' tha' debt 'tall... Her fingers reached out to gently caress his jawline when he laid his head atop hers, her lips twitching. Inna bag? Umm...cloth's, 'xtra dagg'r o' two...flints... Aasha blinked, realizing the whiskey he'd given her was in there, along with the letters, including the one she'd never responded to. Biting her tongue, she decided to keep that to herself for now.

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