Chapter One:

He shifted awkwardly for a moment, wondering what to do. After much struggling, he hesitantly wrapped an arm around her, trying to offer what little comfort he could.

Kel didn't question what he was doing, but instead turned into the embrace and began to sob into his tunic.

Okay…what was he supposed to do?! Inside his mind, he began to freak out. Luckily, his body took over from there, and he was soon stroking her hair and rubbing her back, whispering comforting words into her ear.

After a while, the tears stopped, but still she stayed leaning against his chest, rubbing her cheek on his soft shirt. He didn't dare move, afraid of startling her, making her stop. He wanted her to trust him, to be comfortable with him. He didn't want to scare her away.

Finally, she looked up, eyes red from crying, and mumbled, "I'm sorry." She met his eyes as she said it, but he could sense how uncomfortable she was, how much she wanted to look away from him. He let out a sigh. What could he do to not make her feel like she needed to hide?

Gently, Joren said to her, "There's no need to apologize." He wrapped his arms around her, giving her a small hug. Kel hugged him back fiercely.

They stood in that position for many silent moments.

"Umm….maybe I should go?" It was more a question than a statement, but Joren could clearly hear the uncertainty in her voice.

He didn't want to push her too fast. Instead, he hesitantly released her. "Okay. I'll see you later. And…if you want to talk, I'm here."

The last part, he was unsure of himself. He didn't know if she would listen to him. But he would try.

She just nodded her head and gave him a small smile before making her way to the door. Even after she left, Joren stared at the closed door, wondering what would happen next.

K, could everyone do me a HUGE favor? my sister just posted a story on Anne Boleyn, called "The Most Happy" on fictionpress. It's really a wonderful short story, but no one has reviewed yet. I would love you guys forever if you would go read and review it!!!!!!! The link is ?storyid1811508.

Thanks!!!!!!!