Apples of Gold
Guy's feet barely kissed the ground as he ran down the steps. He could hear the blood surging in his ears. He wanted to run, as far away as possible. Away from Nottingham. England. Europe. Her. Away from her. To the end of the earth where he could surely hurl himself off the edge and end his miserable existence. Rid himself of this false life where he ridiculously thought he stood a chance at happiness.
He skidded to the door, clutching the frame, gasping for air. His hair fell into his eyes obscuring his vision - making it blur. At least that is all he had the courage to tell himself… His wife! His wife was seeing Hood. In their bedchamber. What else had she been doing with him? He shook his head, unable to bear thinking about it. Then the thought hit him: surely the baby was Hood's. Damn! He cursed her name a thousand times in his heart within the span of a moment. She had whored herself to his enemy - an outlaw - and now carried his babe.
Guy of Gisborne felt nauseous. Oh - how he wanted to fall upon his own sword. His eyes narrowed; he would make sure Hood's blood wet the end of the blade first. He evened out his breathing and closed his eyes, standing to full height. He released the doorframe and drew his sword. The raspy sound it made against the scabbard filled him with a ghastly, ruthless power. His heart was empty when he turned and ran up the stairs.
Robin felt the blood drain from his face. His throat felt as if Gisborne's hands were already choking the life out of him. "We've got to go," he grabbed Marian's hand and pulled her closer to the window. She resisted, though her eyes were wide and excessively bright with worry. "Marian! You have to leave!" Without caring about the consequences of his actions, Robin grabbed her by the sleeve and forced her to him, "He'll kill you. You can't stay!"
Her body filled with a sudden fear. Fear for herself, the child she carried, Robin, her father and even Guy. She couldn't help but wonder what he would do. She pulled back, "You go. I have to stay."
Robin shook his head, "No. I can't let you." Every fiber in Robin's being screamed - Take her with you! If he allowed her to stay and meet the wrath of her husband, her blood would be on his hands as much as Gisborne's. That was something that he didn't think would ever wash away.
Marian listed a number of reasons why she could not follow Robin. Her father ranked highest among them but having a child in the woods followed. Then there was the prickling one that nudged at her - she couldn't stand the thought of Guy living out the rest of his life believing that she had been unfaithful to him.
No. She had to stay - no matter the penalty. She had started digging her grave; it was time to fill it. She pushed Robin to the window, "Go."
He straddled the windowsill and looked intently at Marian, pleading with her to relent and come with him. She shook her head and Robin started to swing his left leg over the edge and onto the trellis, but he hesitated. She wasn't safe here anymore and he couldn't abandon her to her fate. He took her arm again, "Not without you."
If he could only get her to go with him, then surely he could make her see that Gisborne was no good for her and she had no obligation to stay with him. Certainly, God above would make allowances in this particular case. He had done more good in the world than Guy had - God would hear him out long before the latter.
To Marian it seemed as if an eternity had passed whereas in truth, it had only been a mere minute. Her heart was thrashing about within her. He needed to leave. There was no question in her mind that Guy would kill him and she would not permit Robin to stay and give him the opportunity.
As the door flew open, it slammed into the wall causing Marian's already racing heart to skip a beat. The entire contents of the room rattled as a result of the force. Once more, Guy stood in the doorway. His teeth clenched tightly together and his lips pulled back into a wolf's devilish smile. He clutched his blade in his right hand so tightly that his knuckles were pallid. The color had drained from his being as well and he looked hollow and empty. He looked like a man long dead - his spirit murdered before his body became aware.
Guy of Gisborne didn't say a word, he didn't even think. He just let his body react naturally and suddenly he found himself across the room, lunging at Hood, his sword ready to feel soft flesh split under it. Marian hollered something but he didn't pay her any heed - her words were inconsequential. He was blind, his eyes saw but he did not.
Robin jerked backwards at the last moment and Gisborne's sword cracked and splintered the wood at the window's ledge. Robin swung his leg back inside the room and directed it at Guy's head. His aim was true, Gisborne's head snapped back, and he stumbled into the frame of the bed.
White blotches obscured Guy's vision as he tried to regain his grip on consciousness. Hood's boot had crashed into his chin and he could feel the blood puddle between his teeth where he had bitten down on his tongue from the impact. It trickled out the corners of his mouth as he ground his jaws against the pain.
Though slightly off balance, Guy righted himself and swung wide at Robin. The blade only sliced the air while Robin effectively dodged the motion.
Robin looked frantically around the room, even with Guy wounded the fact remained that he was weaponless. It was then that he noticed of the shield above the bed.
In a mad scramble, Robin crawled over the mattress and grabbed his only protection, just as Guy's weapon cut a chink out of one of the bed's ill-fated columns. Robin rolled to the floor and used the shield to block Gisborne's next assault. Robin was grateful at this moment that rage blinded his opponent. For however brutal his attacks were, they were very ill planned. He could hear Marian yelling and he could hear Much outside as well, calling his name. It was impossible to respond to either without jeopardizing his immediate safety.
Guy's head ached from the blow and his disorientation was catching up to him. He ignored it; he was so impatient to eviscerate his foe that he could die in the process and go happily as long as Hood died along side him.
He raised his sword again and it slammed against the shield in a sickening, scraping scream. A strange, hollow fulfillment consumed him as Hood stumbled back into the wall. His victory was near! He bashed the shield repeatedly as Robin held it up to defend himself. Guy managed to catch a piece of arm that peaked out from its cover. He heard Robin's pained exclamation and felt exultation rise in his chest - the sound was music to his ears.
Too little, too late he felt the toe of his enemy's boot hook around his heel and pull. Guy went down backwards, breaking his fall against one of the bedposts and grating a limb in the process on the newly splintered wood.
He hissed and let it transform into a yell as he sprang back and lashed out hard. The rapid succession of his blows came as no surprise to Robin and he was able to block Guy, though his arms were growing weary. He could only pray that Guy's were fairing no better…
Crouched as Robin was to better fend off Guy, he didn't notice when Guy kicked out and caught the edge of the shield. Robin's protection snapped up, into his nose and instantly he felt blood gush from his nostrils.
Guy lashed out a second time and the black and yellow shield flew from Robin's hands and slid across the floor. Robin wiped at his nose but stood his ground. He would not give Gisborne the gratification of knowing his anxiety. Lifting his chin he looked directly into his enemy's eyes praying that stare would haunt him for all eternity.
A small spark of life crossed Guy's countenance and his snarl changed into a fleeting smile, "Time to die, Hood."
He began to hoist the sharp blade once more without any thought of the Sheriff's glee when he carried in Robin's severed head and smashed it down in front of him. No thought of his wife's misery. No thought of her at all. Nor did he care that Spencer wouldn't get the pleasure of dispatching Hood and his delusions of grandeur would be frustrated. The only thought he possessed was that he would be furnishing retribution for all the hurt Hood caused him. Nevertheless, Guy knew that even his death would not be able to cover the pain.
His chest ached and his lungs felt too small for his body as he watched Robin's unflinching countenance. Once he was gone it would be over, things would be as they should. Still he felt wanting - Marian had deceived him. And he had believed her! Things would never be as they should. However, this final act would give him some peace of mind.
Both hands gripped his sword tightly, like an extension of his body and he hoisted it above him. Guy started to lower the blade and was about to chop it into Hood's skull when he was forced to stay his hand. Marian stood directly in front of him, her arms spread out at her sides to protect the dead man behind her. His innards grew queasy - had she been a second later he would have ripped her face open.
"Move," he said, his voice hoarse, though his mouth was wet with blood. When had he gotten hurt? Ah, he remembered.
"No," her voice was steady even if she felt her hands tremble at the lack of emotion he displayed.
"I told you to move."
Not daring to look away, she shook her head at him. Marian could feel Robin behind her as his hand reached out and gripped hers. She knew it was a plea for her to stop - to stay alive. Robin was sure Guy would kill her and in sooth, she wasn't so sure he was mistaken.
Guy sniffed angrily before shouting, "Get out of the way!" He was seething now and a passion filled his soul, a passion of hate, "I'll deal with you later."
Marian's cheeks were burning with humiliation and terror as she remained where she was. "Guy," she choked on his name. "Please."
Her husband snorted, "Please. Why should I do anything for you?"
She had no reason to give him at first and she looked down. Why should he? Quickly she peered up, "Because you're a good man."
His laughter sent an all-consuming coldness into her heart, it was worse than if he had stabbed her with his sword. At least it would be over and done.
"I am no good man."
"Guy don't. Think -" she stopped herself. She couldn't say Think of us - that would only be a slap to him under the circumstances. "Think of the baby."
Guy bared his teeth, "Why should I care if it doesn't have its father?" The words killed him even as he spoke them.
Marian's brow furrowed in bewilderment until his meaning seemed to strike her. She wanted to yell at him but that would not soothe the state of affairs - only fan the flame. She inhaled and prayed silently for guidance, "Guy, for me."
He swallowed hard and closed his eyes tightly, could he do this? Guy felt himself lower his guard. She was the only good thing that his life had seen in years. Could he kill that goodness? He could. He could make her life a living hell. Let the flames that had swiftly consumed his world, incinerate hers as well. He could forced her aside easily, he was stronger, and let her witness her lover's bloody death. It would burn in her memory for the rest of her life.
He held back an instant longer, preparing himself - trying to savor the moment. Marian stepped forward and laid a hand on his shoulder, "Guy-" It struck him that he had found Robin and her just minutes ago in a similar position. Guy stepped backwards and away from her touch, shaking his head as if he did not want to believe his own memory.
Marian let out an inaudible sigh and took another step in his direction, easing away from Robin, hoping to give him more space - a better chance to flee. She made another noiseless petition to God pleading that Robin not be so stupid, as he often was, and try to take her with him. She could only give him a small opening to escape and should he try to save her, it would be lost and her efforts would be for naught.
Guy could almost feel the steel scorching his hand. One instant he wanted to hurl it from him, the next he wanted to scream and thrust it out in blind fury, damning the consequences! If he killed her, she wouldn't be able to hurt him again… The lies smoothly flowing from her lips would die and he would be free.
He moved back another pace and his wife moved forward one. What was she getting at? Too late he realized. Hood bolted from where he had been cornered and made for the open window.
Guy shoved Marian aside and roared, going after Robin one final time but missing as his adversary half climbed, half fell down the trellis. Gisborne swore to have that torn down and chopped up for kindling…
Much had a fist pressed forcefully to his mouth, in order to stifle a yell, as his friend landed hard on his back. While he shakily stood, Much could see that Robin's arm was bleeding and he was glistening with sweat. Much ran to his side and helped him, urging him to get back to camp as quickly as possible.
Robin was Much's first priority, he always felt as though he had a certain responsibility to look after him. Much could see no future for himself if Robin was dead. They had been friends far too long for him to think of himself alone. There was no way that Robin could continue the fight against Gisborne - Marian would have to wait for reinforcements.
Robin ignored Much's exhortation to run, as he watched the window where Marian faced Gisborne alone. He felt disgraced. How could he have been such a coward and left her there? He knew she had intended for him to make his escape but it cut him to the quick to think that he had abandoned her.
He felt suddenly exhausted, "Much, give me your sword."
"But Master!"
"Much!" his tone was a warning that was not to be taken lightly. "Your sword."
Guy rounded on Marian, his weapon still clutched in his hand, "You little harlot." His teeth gnashed against themselves repeatedly, as he looked her up and down with contempt. He sneered in her direction giving a full display of his derision towards her.
She had betrayed him - again. Lied to him - again. Kept things from him - again. There was no reason for him to protect her any longer. He had forgiven her before in an attempt to make reparation for letting Winchester rape her. He laughed dryly to himself, even that hadn't proved true - the man had not gotten that far. He owed her nothing.
He showed her his back and went to the window once more. Hood was gone - the dastard. Something caught his attention. A piece of green material fluttered in the wind. Guy tugged at it but it would not come. He wrenched it from the shutter and the ripping sound it made brought him a measure of satisfaction.
He fingered the worn material - a scarf - and felt his fist close tightly around it. Guy couldn't help but recognize it as Robin's… He whipped around to Marian and shook the neckerchief a hair's breadth away from her face. "So this is how you get Hood to come and make a cuckold out of me. Like the whore from Jericho," he spit out the words as if they seared his lips.
If memory served, Marian was almost certain that Guy's use of the analogy was wrong - the girl form Jericho was saved because of her actions - whereas Marian was condemned. She cringed and refused to meet his glare. How could she face him? She could swear a thousand times on the grave of her mother that she had been true to him and it would not matter. He had all the proof he needed.
"It's not what you think," she said, watching him grow angrier.
"Oh? Then pray tell, wife, what should I think?"
She faltered and he spoke again, "Do you take me for a fool? Whatever you say - I won't believe you."
"Then believe what you will!"
"I already do." He tugged at the bottom of his jacket. "And I intend to tell the Sheriff what I believe as well."
She looked horrified. He wouldn't. He couldn't! She was with child - his child! Though he hadn't said anything when she had told him, she could not find it in her heart to think of him as that merciless. "Guy! The baby?"
He shifted away from her and pulled open the door, "It's not my concern."
She was speechless; she would hang for this. Moreover, Guy was going to walk her to the gallows himself…
Guy stormed down the stairs and out the door to his waiting horse. He felt as though his skin couldn't contain the hate that was throbbing through him. He wanted to forget everything. Go back to sleep and start the day anew and pray that it did not transpire as badly as it actually had. Nevertheless, that was impossible. Therefore, without another thought, Guy of Gisborne rode towards the castle and the Sheriff.
Robin made a sound of profound relief and slipped out of the door to the servant's quarters as soon as he heard Gisborne leave. He motioned for Much to stay where he was and sprinted up the stairs. Marian was standing there, her face a mask of shock. "Marian! We've got to go!" He was filled with relief at seeing her alive and the hole that had begun to consume him began to fill.
He grabbed her hand and started for the door again. He hollered her name when she refused to go along with him. Robin pulled her to him and held her, "We have to go." She was silent and Robin cursed, she was going with him whether or not he had to sling her over his back and carry her to Sherwood himself!
It surprised him when she nodded into his chest, "I know."
He held her at arm's length, "Good."
"My father-"
"We'll take him too. Marian, I - I'm glad you understand."
Marian shook her head, "The baby. I can't let that be on his conscience."
Robin scoffed, "I don't think it would be." When she didn't respond, he headed for the door, "Bring what you need. I'll get Edward and be back."
After he'd gone Marian covered her mouth, how she wished she had never hung that scarf…
Much let Edward lean against him as Sherwood welcomed them with outstretched arms. Marian looked back once at Locksley before, sadly, walking to her new life - one that still included Guy but now as an enemy, not a friend. Her morale worsened and she felt the loss of him far more than she had expected.
Guy passed by Allan as if he didn't see him, as he strode with determined step down the corridor. A part of him tried to recall the time when he found out that he had nearly killed Marian with his knife. He was trying in vain to bring to mind how sick he'd felt afterwards and how angry he had been with himself. He knocked that part away, he didn't wish to think on that now. He couldn't remember a time when he felt that he would rather join her in the grave than live without her.
He disregarded Allan when the latter started walking next to him. He did not want anything distracting him from what he was about to do. He had to think and that was something he would be unable to accomplish with Allan babbling.
"Things not go well?" Allan asked.
Guy wheeled around and shoved him against the stone, sending the breath from him, "No. Now get away from me."
"Oi!" Allan coughed and massaged the back of his head where it had connected with the wall. "I's only asking."
"Don't." Guy continued on and noted that Allan followed at a good seven steps behind. When he entered the Sheriff's chambers, Guy didn't hesitate to speak, "Milord."
"Yes Gisborne? Come to grovel and beg me to let you go home early?"
"No. I have something to tell you."
"Spit it out - I don't have all year."
"Milord-"
"Sheriff!" Spencer shoved past Guy and stood before Vaisey. "The Prince sent me to request an audience before dinner. He wishes to further discuss the matter of the feast with you."
"Of course," the Sheriff said, clapping his hands together and smiling - from what Guy could tell - a very fake smile.
Spencer quit the room but not before ramming his shoulder into Guy as he did so. Guy gritted his teeth so hard he was sure they would crack under the pressure. Vaisey gave him his attention again, "You were saying?"
Suddenly Guy was unable to swallow, "Hm?" That interruption had allowed time for a sliver of doubt to wiggle it's way inside his head and etch itself on his mind.
"You said you had something to tell me." Showing his impatience the Sheriff strummed his fingers on his desk.
Guy finally managed to gulp. Oh Lord. He wished he had something to hold onto, in order to keep upright. How could he go on with this? When it came down to it, could he let the Sheriff snuff out her life and leave him to wallow in his own self-pity?
"What did you want to tell me?" Vaisey's voice had a sharp edge and rose by the word.
Guy calmed and steeled himself, "Marian's with child." With those words, the horrendous pounding in his upper body started to die, although it was not what he had come to tell Vaisey. He felt like he had let himself down. He wasn't man enough to tell the Sheriff that his wife had given information to Hood. He had also left out the fact that he strongly believed that the child was in fact Robin's as well…
The Sheriff stood, "Splendid!"
Guy's eyebrows shot up in astonishment, "Milord?"
"Yes. I was wondering when baby Winchester would be announced!"
Guy almost let his head droop. By God's heart, why did the Sheriff feel the need to taunt him now?
"I'm sure you're quite anxious to finally see little Harry! Oh, what's the sad face for? Did you think it was yours? You know it's not, Gisborne."
He stepped away from the Sheriff and walked out of the room, barely uttering two words, "I know."
Guy tried to close the door hard behind him but Allan caught it with his boot. Gisborne didn't care that Allan hadn't spoken a word to him the rest of the day. He knew that Allan had heard, skulking outside the Sheriff's door as he was. He didn't give a bother about that either.
Locksley felt empty and it made Guy's skin crawl. Something was amiss. Even before they wed - the manor never felt this desolate. Leaving Allan at the foot of the stairs, Guy entered into his bedchamber. He expected to see her, red eyed and weeping into her palms. Then he remembered that she was stronger than he thought and had more strength of will than any woman alive.
She was not there. Not bothering to panic, he made a search of the house and found neither Marian nor Edward. Her horse was still in the stable but there was no sign of her anywhere. She had left; gone off with her swain to have a roll in the thorns and thistles. His open hands suddenly formed fists. Let her. He did not care.
He was better off now that she was gone. She wouldn't be a distraction to him anymore. No more lies. But there was no denying that nothing good remained in his life without her. He had no friends to speak of, if you didn't count Allan - and he didn't.
Therefore, even though Guy felt he should have been glad that she had left, he was stunned to find the remains of a chair in his hands and see pieces of it strewn across the floor. He groaned and sunk down to the ground, leaning his back against the wall as a memory resurfaced. He had done the same thing when Winchester had taken her. Back when she meant something to him. Back when he cared. If only Hood had gone after her then - he would not be in this state now.
Guy stood and went down the stairs not even acknowledging Thornton's halfhearted attempt to speak to him. He revisited his room some minuets later, arms laden down with various containers. With that, Guy of Gisborne drank himself to sleep.
Guy wiped at his bloodshot eyes with the back of his hand as he slowed his horse at the castle stables. They did not appreciate the daylight anymore than the rest of him did. He hated to admit that he was surprised not to have woken in a pool of his own vomit. He was just getting ready to dismount his horse when Vaisey came, and ordered his own steed to be readied.
"No, stay there," the Sheriff instructed. "We're going to commandeer some of the shire's finest beasts for Prince John's feast." He made a show of rhyming some of the words, obviously pleased with the prospects.
Allan frowned deeply at the Sheriff's intentions. He knew that there was more than enough meat at the castle. Requisitioning the poor's livestock, possibly the only food they had to feed their families, was unnecessarily callous. It wasn't like the peasants had many animals to begin with, but when you take that from them… Allan snorted, they weren't even allowed to go hunt venison to put food in their children's bellies. He knew from experience that there was a glut of the King's deer in Sherwood. What the devil did he need them for? It wasn't as though the King could munch on them from the Holy Land after all.
Allan wasn't able to prevent his ignominy. He felt his shame and disgrace as if they were twin weights looped around his neck, dragging him down. Looking at himself only confirmed his suspicions - he was lower than dirt. Could he condone the fact that he had put in with this man - the Sheriff of Nottingham? Oppressor of the weak and helpless. Liner of his own pockets. Ruthless, gleeful murderer…
Allan was expected to do whatever this sadistic man required, even if it went against his grain. Even when it opposed everything that he had once stood for. That seemed so, so long ago. Despite wishing that Robin would give his men some of what they stole, he knew that he was doing what was right. Would he have gotten over that greedy hill had Gisborne not stepped in? He hoped so. Allan would never find out though - would he? He had crossed that bridge and then burnt it behind him to prevent his return.
He envisioned the people who would go hungry as he sat on his bum and did nothing. A widow with her five skeletal children. An old man hardly able to stand long enough to plow an eighth of his field. A young couple with their newborn babe. An old woman with cracked, bony fingers, scrubbing the flesh off her hands while trying to keep alive. These were the people that Robin tried so hard to help. These were the people that he had let down.
Allan knew there was nothing he could do to change the mistakes he had made or fix the crimes he had committed. But he swore, that when he looked into the faces of those families and saw their hopelessness, he would make it up to them. One day.
While Vaisey listened for a satisfying pop as he dug his heels into the back of an ill-used guard and mounted his horse, he continued with his conversation, "Why don't you bring your rounding wife to dinner at the castle? There's a stuffed suckling pig being prepared and kid boiled in its mother's milk." He licked his lips in mock anticipation.
Guy grimaced at the distasteful menu before responding with as much composure as he could muster, "I don't believe that she will be able to attend, Milord."
Vaisey gestured as if encouraging Guy to speak further, "And why not?"
"She has been keeping to her bed," he lied. "The babe has made her unwell."
The Sheriff nodded, "Given the circumstances surrounding it, I can see why." He rubbed his chin thoughtfully, "I think I'll stop in and give her my regards - make sure she's being truthful with you."
"Milord?" What did the Sheriff suspect?
"Did you ever think, Gisborne - no I don't suppose you do - that she might be claiming to be with child to avoid her - ah - wifely duties?"
Guy let the air out of his lungs in relief and furrowed his brows. Better to let Vaisey do the talking instead of interpreting any hidden meanings… "Milord?" he repeated - that was the only thing he really felt comfortable saying. The Sheriff was confounding - before he had seemed to know that she was with child, even if he did suspect Winchester was the culprit.
"Really Gisborne, if you're this bright in bed I can't imagine you figuring out how to make one."
Growling ever so quietly, Guy attempted to overlook the Sheriff's insults. He motioned for Allan to follow them. This was going to be a long day.
It wasn't until Locksley was but a short gallop away that Guy became restless. He held the reigns too tight and fidgeted, asking that the Lord above smite Vaisey's schemes from his head. That being said, if that could not be done he asked that God smite him instead and let him leave this wretched world. However should he not accomplish either, Guy attempted to concoct a plausible reason for his wife's absence. He would say that she must have gone to consult with the healer woman. Yes - the Sheriff would be at a loss to argue with that, unless he insisted upon checking up on his story. Surely, he wouldn't have reason to… Guy felt the worry writhe in his stomach, once the Sheriff latched onto an idea, he seldom released it.
"Let's stop in," Vaisey said with a smile so despicable that Guy resumed his bargaining with God.
Guy remained motionless, "My lord I don't think-"
"Oi! Believe me, mate, you don't wanna do that."
All heads swiveled to look at Allan who looked very nonchalant about the entire thing. He leaned forward, "Giz don't want ta say anything, but it's a bloody hell in there."
"Oh," the Sheriff said, pursing his lips. "How so?"
"Well I dunno why anyone calls it a delicate condition - there aint anythin' delicate 'bout it." He held up a forefinger, "But I do know why they should be confined. God in heaven I can hear her spewing out everythin' she ate - and even some she didn't - all the way down in the servant's rooms. I don't know what they do ta make 'imselves heave like that - 'less their up there ruminating like goats."
Guy had to cover his mouth with his hand, partially to hide his amusement as well as to keep from gagging.
"Goats?" Vaisey asked, slightly taken aback. Though he tried to make himself as unfamiliar with the fairer sex as possible, he had never heard anything close to what Allan was describing.
"Frightful - aint it? That chamber pot has overflowed more'n once - right Giz? An' if they don't catch it in time I've seen it start seeping through the floor and drippin' downstairs."
Guy could not prevent his breath from hitching - he was only thankful that the Sheriff was so fixated on Allan's unhindered, ridiculous depictions that he didn't hear him. Alas - he didn't see how the Sheriff would believe this utter nonsense…
"And begging your pardon Sheriff - you just 'ad those couple of meat pies… The sounds alone are bordering on the ungodly - make any man lose 'is lunch."
"Yes. Well, womanly plights never did merit my notice." Vaisey turned to Guy, "Bring your wife to the castle when she is not seeping or leaking or whatever it is that she is doing."
The Sheriff trotted his horse alongside Guy's, and spoke only loud enough for his ears, "Consider yourself fortunate, Gisborne. I don't know the real reason your boy is working so hard to keep me from Locksley - but I do know an overplay when I hear one. It won't work forever. I intend to see Marian sooner than later. In addition, I know that the Prince would enjoy paying his respects as well. Be forewarned - I'm being gracious today."
Guy felt his lips tighten; apparently, God did answer prayers in one form or another… Despite the degree of gratitude, he felt for Allan at the moment, he didn't glance back at him. Why reinforce what the Sheriff already knew?
"You wanna talk 'bout it?" Allan asked as they entered Locksley. The moon was adorning the black sky by the time they arrived at the manor and Guy had not yet divulged why Marian had been absent since last night. There was no denying that she was - Allan A Dale was not addled. However, the where and the why of the matter had not been revealed to him.
"No."
"Where is she?"
Guy snarled and came within a finger's width of striking Allan, "When I want to talk about my marriage with you, I'll do so." He walked away, "Get out of my sight."
Guy stomped through his empty chamber, wadding his coat up before tossing it into a corner. He noticed that the chair he smashed had been replaced without question. Good - it was about time the servants did something useful. Not bothering to finish undressing, Guy sank into the mattress, an unmistakable gloom loomed heavily over him.
Unlike the night before he did not drink himself into a stupor and felt as though he received the sorry end of the deal. Sleep did not come easily to him and he lay awake staring into the empty room, powerless to stop thinking of her - his wife. No. She was not his wife any longer. She gave up that privilege when she left with Hood. Though in truth, he had to question if having any ties to him was considered a privilege. Is that not why she had taken Robin into her bed - because he was unworthy of her?
Guy buried his head in his pillow and desperately tried to quiet his thoughts. Despite his best efforts, she kept appearing and haunting his slumber or lack thereof. Though he endeavored time and again to wipe her from his mind, she fought back and refused to leave. But she had left! And he had let her…
However much he tried to deny it - he had given her good reason to leave with Hood. She was under the assumption that he was on his way to tell the Sheriff. She had been right and he had not changed his objective until the last possible moment. That still did not excuse her actions. Letting Hood get a child on her was the reason that he had gone to the Sheriff in the first place. Even if he was undeserving of her, that didn't give her leave to go behind his back. He had offered to have the marriage annulled and would have gone through with it even if it killed him. But she chose to remain wedded to him.
That burned him - she was still his by law and in the sight of God. Even if she despised him and would rather have Hood - she belonged by his side. He had every right to force her to come home, unhappy or not. It was the principle of the matter. The question remained - could he tolerate taking her back with the knowledge that she had been unfaithful to him? Could he look upon the child when it was born without seeing a way to hurt his enemy?
He rumbled into the night, he would take her back but that did not mean he would share his bed. As far as the babe went - he would cross that bridge when he came to it. Moreover, if Robin so much as thought of Marian again he would find out - if he hadn't killed him by then…
He was able to reason further on the matter by remembering that Vaisey would begin to wonder where Marian had gone. Allan's ludicrous story would only keep him at bay for so long and it would be unreasonable to announce that his wife had died suddenly and he had buried her next to the barn…
He flipped the bedclothes off and donned his coat, none the worse for wear after lying crumpled on the floor. "Allan!" he shouted, as he made his way to the door. "Get up!"
The railing under his hand was smooth from decades of use, some parts especially were well worn and his fingers trailed over them in particular. The steps made a hollow thunk under his boots and his stirrups clinked on each tread. He didn't care how loud he was being. So what if the rest of the servants in the house were woken from their slumber? If he had to be up at this indecent time of night - why shouldn't they?
After several more screams of his name, Allan stood groggily before him, half dressed, and looking like he had fared little better than Guy in the past few hours.
Guy started out the door, "We're going." He didn't wait for Allan or see if he would follow. He didn't have to - he knew.
Allan could not quite get his mouth to work without sounding like he was choking - apparently it was still asleep like he wished the rest of him was. He opted to remain quiet as a result and dressed as he followed Guy out into the black world. He figured it was for the best that he wasn't able to articulate yet - that way he couldn't question Guy's motivation. There would be no fear of his unchecked temper at present.
Once they were mounted, Allan did regain the use of speech and braved the waters that could smother him without a second thought, "Where we goin'?"
"The outlaw's camp."
"What?" Allan screeched, startling his horse and sending it skittering to the side.
"That's right. And you're going to take me there."
"No."
Guy reached over and grabbed the neck of Allan's shirt, "You'll do as I say or the next being you'll be speaking with will be the Devil, trying to sweet talk your way out of the fire." He shoved him back into his saddle.
"We didn't agree on this."
Guy arched his shoulders, "Agreements get broken."
"I'll not betray my friends." He regretted the words as soon as he had spoken them, true or not.
Guy laughed, "Your friends? Do you think they consider you a friend? You're rawer than I took you for."
Allan sat motionless atop his horse. "I'm not takin' you." Guy's words had stung more than he could have ever imagined. Sadly, he knew Guy was right - they didn't think of him that way anymore. However that didn't justify causing their deaths. Once they had been friends and Allan would cling to that memory.
"You will."
"I'd rather be damned than be a Judas."
"You already are!"
"Go to 'ell."
"Fine! I'll find her myself!"
Allan met Guy's stare and all the unspoken words fell into place, "Marian ran off with Robin?" He knew that Robin had not abducted her. He wouldn't do such a thing unless he feared for her life… Allan puffed out his cheeks in thought, there was so much that Gisborne wasn't saying.
Guy felt his jaw tighten at Allan's words. He didn't wish to acknowledge the question when he wasn't in a position to contradict it. He cursed himself for his thoughtlessness. After all these years, he should have learned never to speak out in anger. "I'm getting her back. She is my wife."
Allan didn't know what to do or think. Strolling into camp, leading Guy right to them, wasn't an option. Without a doubt, Gisborne would bring the Sheriff's guards straight back, before he would even have a chance to blink. That's when he saw the pain written out on Guy's features.
Allan gulped hard and flung his head back. What was he doing? He found himself almost whispering his next words, "Fine. I'll take ya."
Guy's only response was to spread his arm out, giving Allan leave to lead the way. Allan shook his head, "First I'll haveta' blindfell you."
Guy snarled, "Is that the only way you'll take me?"
"Yea, it is." He hoped that he had read Guy's intentions correctly. Of course - he never had learned his letters…
Guy wished he could bloody well see. The helplessness that overcame him the moment Allan wrapped the strip of cloth around his head was enough to make him dismiss his entire design. How he hated to be dependent on another to guide his way. Nevertheless, it was his only logical option - there was no way to change it. Another choice open to him was to beat Allan to an utter pulp and then force him to lead the way. Somehow, it seemed to Guy, to be the preferable of the two. The problem with that alternative was he wasn't quite sure that Allan would cooperate afterwards…
What he was doing now seemed to be his only rational choice, aside from galloping through the woods in hopes of stumbling headlong into the outlaw's hideaway. But most likely, that idea would only get himself shot.
His horse spooked and Guy barely prevented himself from being thrown off. Once the horse settled and he was in far less peril he twisted in the direction he thought Allan was in, "What, in the name of God, happened?"
"Nuthin' -nuthin at all…" Allan said, all to cheerfully.
Guy turned his head again when Allan's voice came from the left instead of the right; the very area his horse had been frightened away from… Guy scarcely contained himself from ripping the cloth off him and smothering Allan with it. "Is there a reason you want to die?"
"What? No! Why?"
"Because if you fail to kill me, as I think you're trying to, be assured I won't."
"Fail to kill yoursel'? What's the point in that, Giz?"
"You know what I meant."
At Guy's deadly tone, Allan felt the need to make up for his unneeded, unwanted correction, "I wasn't trying to be an ass."
"You don't have to try."
Blissful silence prevailed from then on.
Once Allan removed the blindfold, the forest almost seemed bathed in daylight. Guy used his fingers to massage his eyes, "How far away are we?" They had dismounted the horses and tethered them at Allan's recommendation and Guy trusted that the camp wasn't too much further.
There was a slight hesitation his Allan's voice when he replied, "Not far." Was he afraid? He should be. Allan had informed on Hood and his men, giving up their plans to him.
There are some who could argue that Guy had been disloyal to Robin as well. He had worked with the Sheriff against Hood, hadn't he? Guy didn't see it that way. Though they associated when they were children - Guy felt his case was different from Allan's and not able to be considered an act of treachery. There was no love lost between himself and Hood. Any sense of loyalty between them had vanished long ago. You could not betray someone to whom you had no connection. And Robin had ended that bond when he did nothing to prevent Guy and his sister from being banished.
Gisborne's neck stiffened, he had no duty to Hood whatsoever. Each day he put his childhood a little further behind him, though certain memories were still burned into his mind just as they had scorched the earth.
He tried not to hold onto the upsetting thoughts, he needed to keep his focus on the purpose of finding Marian and convincing her to come home. However, at this point in time, Guy felt that he was not beyond using force…
He rallied himself and continued forward. He had come this far and nothing would make him turn back now. Not before seeing her at least. Though bitterly he thought he might regret this entire escapade if he found himself bathed in his own, still warm blood, with Robin leering overtop him. He refused to let that be the case - if anyone died, it would be Hood.
"I won't brook any trouble from you." He tightly held Allan back, digging his fingers into the latter's wrist. He heard Allan emit a subdued noise from his windpipe and felt satisfied.
"Oi - it's not me you're gonna 'ave'ta worry about. It's not like Robin's gonna be happy to see either of us."
"Were you under the assumption I wasn't aware of that?"
"Hey - forewarned is forearmed."
Guy rolled his eyes and released him, wondering how it was that Allan could actually come up with something rational. However, as it was - nothing made sense to him anymore…
After another few minutes of walking through the dark, Guy knew they were close, he could see the golden glow of a fire. Another few paces brought them right to the edge of camp. Allan thrust out his hand to hold Guy back, "Lemme go in first." Guy didn't argue that head and remained concealed in the shadows. Gisborne was darkly pleased that they had gone unnoticed by the outlaws. He was proved wrong again, when a loud voice called out, "Who's there?"
Allan exhaled lengthily, "Here goes." He held his hands up above his head and walked into the dim firelight. Guy watched as four people encircled Allan. Darkness obscured them somewhat but Guy could still make them out. Hood stood in front of Allan preventing him from going further, and then there was the servant, the boy from Locksley, and the Saracen.
"I thought we'd said our peace the last time you showed up uninvited?" Robin said.
"I'm here in behalf of Gisborne," Allan said, arms still high over his head.
Robin lifted his brows, "Gisborne? Is the Sheriff's right hand too afraid to come? Or does he not want to lower his standards and talk with me himself?"
Guy allowed his nails to dig into the palms of his hands while he attempted to think past Hood and keep a look out for Marian. So far he hadn't seen her, though he'd been looking everywhere there was a splash of light.
It was then that he felt something rap against the base of his neck, calling him to attention. Slowly he pivoted around and came vis-a-vis with quite a large stick. Before he could react properly, the staff rammed into his abdomen, so hard that it sent him sprawling out of the bushes and before Robin, on his hands and knees.
"So he did lower his standards after all. Now I'll have to lower mine," Robin said, crouching down on the balls of his feet and leaning over Guy. "You've made a terrible mistake in coming."
Guy gulped air; his stomach throbbed from the staff having knocked the wind out of his lungs. The woodsman - he had forgotten him. "I want to see my wife."
"And what if she doesn't want to see you?"
"Then I'll wait."
"You can wait until the devil and his own are frozen in ice. She doesn't want to see you."
"Let her decide that."
"Fair enough. Then when she sends you away, you won't be able to argue it." He paused and bent a little further down, close enough to smell the dirt, "Remember - I'll have an arrow trained at your back and if you should harm her in any way it will fly true and you'll be dead before you can gasp."
Robin stood aside and gave Guy the space he needed to regain his footing. Guy crossed his arms and made his way past Robin, being careful not to drop his watchfulness. He felt the soft fletching of Hood's arrow brush his cheek in silent reminder. Guy jerked his body away, "I'm here to see my wife. Nothing more." However, everything he believed said otherwise. He should do away with Hood while he had the chance! The Sheriff would consider this reprieve a weakness on his part, another shred of his humanity peaking out. Guy knew that it would be bad form to bring his enemy to his demise here and now, given the circumstances.
To his surprise, Robin let him go by. Guy waited for the sting of the arrow to pierce his spine but when the pain didn't come, he cast a glance behind him. Robin stood staring after him, he appeared to be filled with disgust and was holding his bow securely in his hand. Guy laughed - as if he was any better? The man who had made a whore of his wife looked down on him?
Guy waited for an armed escort to trail after him but no one followed. He almost wondered if he was going the wrong way or walking into a trap. He hadn't waited for Hood to point out the way to his wife after all… But the look Robin gave told him otherwise, he was headed right.
He no sooner caught sight of her than he felt defeated. She stood under, from what he could make out, a structure made from leaves. She held her head high and unafraid; his spirits sank so deep that they could have drowned in an empty chalice. He would never convince her to come home with him, she was too sure of herself. Guy of Gisborne decided to adopt the same arrogant manner. Two could play at this game.
"I'm here to bring you home."
"Why should I go with you?" she asked, daring him to respond.
"You are my wife. Your place is with me." He wished he could snatch his words back. This is not how he had intended things to go. Alas, his pride refused to let him beg or even ask.
Drawing closer, it was clear to him that she hadn't been sleeping right. Her eyes were reddened and rimmed with dark circles. However much he noticed it - there was nothing left in him that considered showing pity.
"Come back to meet the gallows? Do you think I'm your plaything? A rag doll that you own? That you decide the fate for? I'll decide my own." Marian had her arms folded while she spoke, daring him to respond.
"There would be no hanging."
"How can I believe that?"
He sighed, "By trusting me."
"Trust you? You threatened me. You left me no choice," she said heatedly.
"I found you and Hood," he spewed out the name. "Together. I had every right to tell the Sheriff about your treachery."
"So you did tell him." There was no question in her words, just cold fact.
"I haven't told him," Guy said, silently adding the word 'yet' for his own emotional benefit, reassuring himself that he still held the upper hand. The look she sent his way made him avert his gaze. It was as if she had heard his thoughts.
Guy told himself once more that he hadn't done anything to be ashamed of. She had betrayed him - not the other way around. She should be groveling at his boots, begging him to take her back. Nevertheless, here she was, meeting his eyes, insinuating that he was the one in the wrong. He would not take anymore of her insolence. "You're going with me."
She didn't budge, "No."
Guy wanted to shake her but he restrained himself with great effort and managed to grind out one word, "Why?"
She looked shocked, as if she couldn't believe that he was that thick. She reiterated her previous words to him slowly, hoping that he would be able to grasp her reasons this time, "You threatened me and our baby."
Guy's face darkened and he seized her suddenly, warning her, without any thought to Robin's waiting arrow, "Don't. Don't say that. You should be grateful that I'm willing to take you back while you're carrying Hood's spawn!"
"The baby is yours!"
"And you expect me to believe that? After all the other lies you fed me?"
Marian bit down hard on the inside of her cheek; though she was nervous, she didn't want Guy to see. Mayhap this was it. She might not be able to smooth over her transgressions this time. Guy may not be so willing to overlook her faults at a tender word. Worse - he may never believe her again. She had dealt treacherously with his trust one too many times for him to listen to her now - even when she was telling the truth.
She did not look away from him while she spoke, "I swear the child is yours. I've never lain with Robin."
He chuckled, "Again you expect me to believe something from your lips. They spit poison, Marian. You want me to play the addled fool and take your word for it. I'll not trail behind you like a dog waiting for the next kick to my ribs or scrap from your hand. How can I trust anything you say?"
She wanted him to believe her with a fever she didn't know was in her. The thought of a future where he was unable to, made her sick all over again. She hated the thought that he would think ill of her on this account, not when she finally had something sincere to tell him. "Guy, I promise."
Guy released her and pointed at her as if to send her words back where they came from, "Your promises are worth less to me than your wedding vows were to God."
"If that's how you feel why don't you just go?"
"Because I'm doing the honorable thing. I'm going to take you home regardless. You are my wife - and it is my right before God and man to do as I see fit."
"And if I refuse? If I do what I see fit?"
"Do you want to have a child in the forest? To have the Sheriff hunt you like a wild animal? Because he'll notice, sooner than you think, that you're no longer at Locksley. Then he will make it his objective to track you down and execute you. And don't think that being with child will change that. The Sheriff is not one for sympathy.
"I'm being gracious. I'd accept if I were you. Unless you would rather let your baby suffer. Then by all means - stay with Hood."
"And if I return with you - what of the baby?" He had sworn that she would not hang but he hadn't said anything definite of her - their - child. Would he allow an infant he didn't believe to be his, to live under his roof? Or was he using the baby as a ploy to get her home and then use the child to capture Robin?
"You can care for it as you see fit. But don't think for a second I will call it mine."
He departed from her and began walking. It took everything in him to keep from looking back at her. If she didn't come - he wouldn't know what to do… Drag her behind him and force her to Locksley at sword point? Even that would do no good. He would be a lifeless corpse before she could even make a peep of protest.
Marian repressed her self-importance and followed her husband. Everything he said was true - there was no denying it. She believed him; he would not hurt her or the baby. She trusted him even if he didn't trust her. In the fact that he was allowing her back into his life, there was a small amount of forgiveness for her sins against him. It was a start. A small start but a start nonetheless.
She would attempt to begin again with a clean slate. She would try to keep the deceptions at bay and not tangle up her shaky marriage with them again. Marian was not sure if she would be able to succeed but she would make an effort. She had nothing left to account for - Guy knew it all.
She felt her heart shatter when she caught another glimpse of him - the night was more cheerful than his expression. He appeared stone cold and unfeeling. Unfeeling towards her. Marian had always had his devotion until a couple of days ago. It was always him seeking her approval, her affections. Now it seemed to be the other way around. It felt strange to have something that had been so constant, abruptly gone.
Guy halted and looked down at her, "And if I ever catch you with Hood again-" his jaw set and he closed his eyes as if straining to control himself. He did not finish, just continued walking while his unsaid words hung in the air choking the life out of both of them.
Guy placed a hand on her back without warning. His touch was gentle and she felt as though her heart stopped beating with relief. Maybe there was still some hope for a true reconciliation? Then she knew she had been too optimistic, for she realized what he was doing - he was positioning himself between her and Robin.
As he guided her past Robin, she could feel the tension hot and thick in the air.
Robin blocked Guy's path, "You're not taking her."
"She is my wife," Guy said, his free hand slowly inching in the direction of his dagger.
"Do you think I'm going to let her go with you? To her death? You're going to feed her to the Sheriff."
Guy didn't respond. Instead, he calmly started to continue onwards, his breathing hard and deep as he tried to maintain control of his fury.
Truth be told, Robin was scared, not for himself but for Marian. Guy of Gisborne was far from a kind, hearted lamb, he was a wolf who would not take perfidy lying down. Robin knew without doubt that Marian's life could instantly be in danger. It would be weak of him to place her and her child - a child that he wanted with all his soul - at such great risk a second time.
Robin stood his ground, refusing to allow the woman he loved to walk away from him. Even if Gisborne did not hand her over to the Sheriff, it would be wrong of him to let her leave with that fiend. Guy could hurt her without murdering her. Robin was certain that he was more than capable of doing just that.
"I'm not leaving without her," Guy said, determination lacing his voice.
When neither Guy nor Robin refused to back down, Allan stepped between them. He had respect for both men and refused to sit by while they killed each other with their glares - because he was sure it would grow into more than a staring contest soon enough. His heart was pounding so loud that he was surprised he could hear himself speak, "Oi! Take it easy. The Sheriff don't know. No 'arm done." He wished that his declaration would settle the matter but neither man seemed to hear him, or see him for that matter. The way they looked right through him was unnerving. Allan put his hands out trying to put a little more distance between the quarreling parties, "Look - I don't want to start the day off dead."
While Allan waited for the worst, he felt another body stand next to his - it was Will. Allan felt his throat close off. Though it could merely be for Robin's sake that Will was by his side, it was of such great comfort that he nearly broke down. Will might still be his brother-in-arms. Still might count him as a friend. He could only hope - and hope he did.
Will Scarlett looked knowingly at Allan, giving the latter some form of reassurance, and then spoke to Robin, "Think of Marian."
"I am," was the only reply Will received. There was no conceivable way to determine whether or not Gisborne would harm Marian. As of yet, he hadn't. Marian trusted him enough to go with him and put her safety in his bloodstained hands.
Besides killing the man in front of his wife, there was only one way that Robin could completely be sure nothing would befall her. He would follow her and be her silent guardian. Gisborne would never be the wiser. If that is what it took - so be it. Robin did not cower to any man's will but he did respect Marian's decisions, however much he disagreed with them.
Attempting to be the better man, Robin, almost quivering with anger, stood down. He allowed Guy to pass for Marian's sake. He intended to follow them for her own good. Her safety might very well depend on him. Should Guy injure her in any way Robin would not hesitate to kill him. He would be justified and nothing Marian could say would change it.
Edward stood with Djaq waiting for whatever outcome would take place. This turmoil had not been good for him and now he was about to be shuffled around again. There was no doubt in Marian's mind that her father was worried what Guy might do when they were out of Robin's immediate reach. He knew what Guy was capable of - having personally received the brunt of his wrath before.
Marian took his hand in hers and gave it a reassuring squeeze, however much she didn't feel at ease herself. She was ashamed that her father had seen any of this - to see the muddle she had made of both of their lives. She wished that she had escaped from Winchester herself, then none of this would have happened.
She stole one final look behind her and, upon seeing Robin, she spoke a silent I'm sorry. Marian held no doubt that this was not the last time she would see Robin though. He still needed her help as did that child that was being kept prisoner by the Sheriff. Once Marian made up her mind, little could change it.
Marian's chest stung for here she was, already planning to keep something from Guy. Hadn't she just told herself to wipe clean all her lies and treachery? Sadly, it seemed like some things would never change. She was unable to cut Robin from her life like the ruined middle of an embroidery work. That being the case, it would be only proper for her to discard the entire project - and Marian wasn't ready to stop living.
Robin raised his hand as he abruptly remembered something, the tumultuous situation Gisborne had caused by entering the camp in the first place had displaced the obvious from his mind, "You led him right too us!" He gave an accusatory stare in Allan's direction.
"No I didn' - I had 'im blindfolded." Allan felt his palms grow wet. He had known this would end badly…
Robin scoffed and Allan knew that he was thinking about his former sedition. Allan studied the ground about his feet, there was nothing he could do or say to convince Robin otherwise. Knowing this himself, Robin, albeit skeptical, decided to place his faith in Allan's empty words.
Before letting them leave, he did insist that Gisborne, Marian, and Edward's eyes be covered. Gisborne would never have to know that Marian and Edward knew the way to the camp. If he insisted that she be blindfolded now, Guy wouldn't be able to pressure her into disclosing the whereabouts of their hideaway. He went to tie the cloth around Marian, intending to whisper in her ear his plan to follow her.
Guy snatched the material from his hand. Gisborne twirled Marian around and tied the knot hard and fast. Robin scowled at Guy, before kindly wrapping the blindfold around Edward's head. This only reinforced his determination to watch over Marian tonight.
Guy's actions enraged Marian. She almost used the skills she had acquired as the Night Watchman at the very moment Guy grabbed her. But for the sake of a ceasefire and her father, she acquiesced to his coarse treatment. Should he try that again, however, he would not find himself so fortunate…
Wordlessly Guy led Marian to their chamber. She almost wished he would shout, yell - do anything. Even the worst would be better compared to this unsettling quiet. He hadn't spoken another word to her and it brought back his taciturn behavior of the other day. Those actions had led to all of this. However, she could not fully exclude herself from blame in regards to his reaction to her disclosure, no matter how much she would like to.
Anxiously she stepped inside the bedroom and spun to meet Guy. She waited for him to say something. It worried her, what he might utter though. Many times, she had wished that she didn't care about him. That she couldn't. It had always been easier for her to be angry with him. Now she wasn't so sure if that was the case anymore. All she wanted was for him to speak with her. One kind word would sooth her fears.
His eyes swept over the room and rested on her, "You'll sleep here." Nothing else, not even an accusation. He walked out the door and down the stairs.
Marian felt all the strength drain out of her. She sat near the pillows and rested her forehead on her fist. She was too tired to scream and too outraged at his behavior to cry. This was it. She had been moving towards this outcome for as long as she had known him and now she was finally here. What had she done?
Guy sat in a chair before the fireplace, the flame of which had long since burned out. His chest hurt and he couldn't hold a thought for more than a few seconds. When Allan came and sat across from him, Guy didn't want to acknowledge it. Allan forced him to, when he leaned forward insolently. "What do you want?"
Allan ignored Guy's bitter tone, "Thought you might wanna talk 'bout it now."
"With you? No."
"With who then?"
Guy grimaced, "No one."
Allan slapped his knees, "Sure you do. I'm the only friend you got."
Guy cocked his head, "Is that so?"
"Well you got Marian but you're not bein' too friendly with her right now - aren'tcha?"
Guy didn't answer, only took a sip of the drink he had poured himself.
"You can't stay mad at her forever, Giz."
"Can't I?"
"Nah. Never thought I'd say this but you love her too much."
"Really? And, pray tell, what if, when I am ready to forgive her, she wants nothing to do with me?"
"I wouldn't worry so much about that. I'll tell ya Guy, that wife of yours has a very thick posterior," Allan said, reclining into the chair.
Guy's head shot up and he stared at Allan, brows raised, "You better think that means something other then what it means…"
A/N. Sorry that took sososososososo long. I hope that it was worth it… *gulp* I hope that this chapter made sense. Hopefully Guy wasn't too forgiving/Marian too stubborn/Robin too callous. Remember - Marian is pregnant and riding the emotion train at present.
Robin truly is concerned for Marian. He still loves her very much.
I'd like to thank all the anonymous reviewers! Thank you guys! You really mean a lot and I wish I could tell you in person.
Thanks to everyone for the encouragement. Even though it didn't seem like this chapter was EVER coming I was working on it steadily. "Humanity" will be finished! I promise!
Take care and thanks for reading!
CA