"You foolish girl, the whole of Edoras probably thinks you're some kind of… of… of tavern whore!" she sat down on a large rock roughly, ignoring the pain from the backs of her legs as they were jabbed. I'll never be able to go back. Propping her elbows on her knees, she leant her chin on her hands, staring out into the horizon. The fields stretched out endless before her like a stormy green sea. The approaching sound of hoof beats caught her ear and she awaited the sight of the interloper who dare disturb her when she clearly needed to be alone to think. How far away do I have to move? Sighing when the hoof beats slowed, she turned to face the on coming person with an irritated frown. She stood abruptly, losing her balance for a moment and having to grab the nearby rocks to steady herself, she stared in surprised as Firefoot walked over alone. Stroking his nose, she took his reins and looked behind for any sign of her master. Letting go of his reins again, she walked slowly down past him, stroking down his neck and placing her hand on the still warm saddle. Where on Middle-Earth? She was answered by a hand on her shoulder. Turning, she couldn't help but feel lighter hearted.
Éomer locked his eyes on hers. Her wavy red locks contrasting against her grey eyes and pale skin. She reminded him of the last day of autumn, when the first snow mingled with the orange and red leaves in the trees. Tell me I'm not dreaming. His hand slid down from her shoulder, down her arm, to her hand, which he grasped in his. "Don't let go…" her voice was so soft and soothing as she tightened her grip on their clasped hands. Stepping nearer, he lowered his face so he could still look at her.
Reaching up, her hand stroking his cheek, causing his eyes to close at her touch. He's so gentle. When his eyes opened, he brought his other arm and wrapped it around her middle, pulling her into an embrace. Closing her own eyes, she leant her head on his chest, listening to his heart beating strongly. "Don't let it end…" He stroked her hair, leaning his chin on the top of her head gently. "Come back to Edoras." Her eyes opened and she stepped back, out of his arms and looked at him. "I can't."
"Why not?"
"I… I made a fool of myself." She couldn't meet his eyes, instead looking in all other possible directions, pretending to find a clump of rocks interesting. Stepping up to her, he put his hands on her shoulders. "How could you make a fool of yourself when you're my prize stable master?"
"I…" she finally met his eyes with apology and regret. "… people of the town talk. What do you think they'll say if they found out the King was kissing stable girls?" "There'd be a lot more stable girls?" he smiled broadly and she slapped his arm slightly, trying hard not to smile herself. "Be serious. There'd be scandal. Your reputation…"
"What about it?" he shook his head, "I don't care."
"But, my Lord…"
"No buts, it is my reputation, and I will do with it what I will."
"And what will you do with your prize stable master?" she shied away, looking over at Firefoot as she grazed beside them. "Well…" he pulled her up to him, wrapped his arms around her waist, pressing his full lips into hers. She stiffened for a moment from the unexpected assault on her lips, but relaxed into it after a second, putting her arms around his neck. Edoras it is. Home sweet home.
That's it, all done. Hope you enjoyed it! Thanks to everyone who read it and a big thanks to everyone who reviewed it. That's it from Morwen, hope you all enjoyed the Stable Girl series.
Hugs
Lostariel
XxX
