(no subject)

[equal_of_any_man]

{From here}

Olivier opens the door into a small hall, nothing compared Lawrence's hall but big enough for a party of thirty or so people. There's a pair of chairs pulled up by the fire. Ermina sits there, a linen cloth over her knees as she embroiders the edges, a pair of dogs at her feet. She looks up as the door opens and smiles. "Athelstan!" She gets up and bounces to him, the dogs barking and dancing around their feet.

Comments

[athelstanthescribe]

It makes Athelstan glad to see it, as it's also a sign of good health, and he tries hard to eat all he's given rather than cause any worry for that reason.

[equal_of_any_man]

Ermina rests a gentle hand on his sleeve. "Do not force yourself, Athelstan. It will not go to waste and there's no profit in making yourself ill."

And there are two rather large dogs looking hopefully of scraps.

[athelstanthescribe]

He smiles up at her apologetically, with a glance at the dogs.

"It's a richer meal than I've had in some time."

[equal_of_any_man]

Ermina takes his hand and squeezes it. "You have a place at our table, any time you need. For as long as you need. You don't need to tell me what's wrong. I'm sure my husband has already asked or he would still be asking. Just know you are our family and always will be."

[athelstanthescribe]

"It would cause you such distress to hear it, my lady", he says softly, "that I hesitate to tell. But I know I can always come to you."

[equal_of_any_man]

"Then I won't make you repeat it." She gets up and kisses the top of his head. "But don't blame me if I try to feed you up while you're here."

[athelstanthescribe]

He smiles slightly and takes her hand.

"I would never try to prevent you."

[equal_of_any_man]

She smiles and kisses his brow again before starting to clear the table. "Husband mine, why don't you show Athelstan around the manor?"

Olivier smiles. "Very gladly, if you're willing?'

[athelstanthescribe]

"I would love to see your home", Athelstan says, standing up.