“No, and hopefully we’re spared any more snow, giving you a chance to get home.”

“Time to dress and get Thaw outside,” Snow said, guiding herself along the side of the bed to the end and reaching for her garments that Nettle had left on the chest in front of the foot of the bed.

The door suddenly burst open and Tarass stood there. “Come, Thaw, outside with you.”

“I will see to him,” Snow said, feeling the need to keep Thaw with her.

“See to yourself. When you’re done meet us in the Great Hall,” Tarass ordered. “Now tell Thaw to go with me.”

His snappish tongue warned her she was better off not arguing. “Thaw, go with Tarass. He will take you outside.”

Thaw trotted over to Tarass and right out the door.

“Will I be able to go home today?” Snow asked.

“I’ll make sure of it,” Tarass said and hurried the door closed behind him to follow Thaw down the stairs.

He was angry with himself for having foolishly fallen asleep in her bed last night and for being naked. He was also angry that he had slept so comfortably beside her that he hadn’t woken during the night, something that had become a habit of his, though not with Snow. He had slept soundly and felt more rested than he had in some time.

Never had he slept through the night when he had shared a bed with a woman. And he had always made sure to take his leave of a woman before sunrise. It was an action that he felt made it clear that he wasn’t interested in any more than what they had shared that night.

The pup rushed through the Great Hall and he had no problem keeping up with him. He was glad for the cold air that stung his face when he stepped outside.

“Angry so early in the morning?” Rannock asked as Tarass descended the stairs.

Tarass didn’t like when he allowed how he felt to show, but Rannock was a friend and often saw what others didn’t.

“Women can annoy,” Tarass said.

“You’re only finding that out?” Rannock asked with a laugh. “Though I’ve heard many a man say, if you’re annoyed with a woman watch out, it might be you’re annoyed with yourself for falling in love with her.”

“Are you saying that I’m falling in love with Snow?” Tarass snapped with an angry snarl.

“That set a burr in you.” Rannock laughed again. “What happened?”

“Nothing. She goes home today. I want six warriors to ride with us. Have them ready. We leave after the morning meal,” he ordered and turned away from Rannock, calling out for Thaw who was already a distance ahead.