Disclaimer: I don't own the Chronicles of Narnia.
Author's Note: Please review! I hope you enjoy this chapter!
Asher stood in the doorway of Susan's room, watching her stand at her window, staring up at the night sky.
"Lady Susan?"
"Oh!" Susan cried, turning to face him, and quickly wiping at her eyes.
"Susan?" Asher said again, his voice laced with concern. "Are you alright? I mean-"
"Yes-quite, I apologize. Did you need anything, Prince Asher?"
"I, er," Asher reached up and scratched the back of his neck. "I was wondering if we could talk?"
Susan nodded, walking toward him. They sat down on a small couch in the corridor. For a moment, there was silence.
"Prince?"
"Oh-er, right then. I wanted to know, well-"
"Well?"
"Please, forgive my rudeness, but could you tell me where you came from? Before Marak's inn, I mean," he stammered hurriedly.
Susan sighed. "I don't think you would believe me." I hardly believe it myself.
Asher rolled his eyes. "Try me."
"I…I'm sorry. I can't." Susan said, standing abruptly and going back into her room.
She traced the alabaster walls with her fingers as she paced around the room, whispering to herself. "Lucy. I miss you. So, so much. I can imagine you here. You would be great friends with Ana. And you'd love the colors! Oh, Lucy," Susan cried as the first tear trickled down her cheek.
"And Peter, I know you'd get along with Asher famously. He's not at all like anyone I've ever met. But sometimes I think he reminds me a little bit of you. Your goodness, your chivalry. I need you here. I need my big brother back. You always knew just what to do."
Susan was sobbing now, having circled the whole room and was once more facing the windows. "Even the stars are different, Ed. I remember how you used to get into such arguments with the centaurs. I wish you were here with me. I can almost hear your voice. 'Buck up, Su, it's not so bad. Act like a queen of Narnia.' But I can't stand it. I can't be strong without you. I tried. I did. But- but-"
Susan fell to her knees, gasping and crying as harshly as she had when the policeman had walked up to her door to tell her the news. She shook violently, unable to stop. Suddenly two strong arms encircled her and she turned and clung to Asher.
"Shhh, Susan, shhhh, you'll make yourself sick. Susan, please." he murmured, rocking her gently.
"A-Asher?" she whispered brokenly.
"I'm here. Susan, it's alright, shhhhh, love, please."
Gradually, her sobs turned to whimpers, and then to occasional shudders. She stayed wrapped in his arms until finally her breathing calmed.
"I'm sorry you had t-to see that," Susan said, leaning her head against his shoulder.
"No, Susan, it's fine." After a pause, he said, "Let's get you to bed."
She nodded, exhausted. He lifted her up and gently laid her into the bed, then brushed her hair from her forehead. "Sleep, Lady Susan," he whispered, before walking out of the room.
