Tarass took her hand, closing his large one firmly around her small one and feeling now that he had hold of her, he wouldn’t let her go. He would make her stay until she was well enough to travel whether she liked it or not.

This would be the last time she would feel his hand wrapped around hers. Why did that thought disturb her? And when had she grown to favor the simple gesture? She pushed the disconcerting thoughts away.

“I appreciate all you have done for me, Lord Tarass. You have been most kind and hospitable, and I am ever so grateful. However, it is time for me to take my leave. My heartfelt thanks for all you’ve done for me.” Tears were close to filling her eyes and she slipped her hand out of his, having to give a little tug since he didn’t easily let go. She quickly turned her head. “James, we should leave now.”

“A good idea, since it will take us longer than usual to reach Willow’s home,” James said.

Snow was grateful her brother agreed, since she needed to leave before the sadness that was rapidly growing in her caused her to spill tears. She didn’t understand it and she needed to be away from here to make sense of it.

“I’ll send a troop of my warriors with you,” Tarass said.

Tarass’s commanding tone left no room for James to object.

“That is generous of you, Lord Tarass,” James said.

Tarass took Snow’s arm to walk down the stairs and she didn’t resist. She didn’t want to. She wanted to feel his protective touch once more before they said good-bye. His hand remained on her arm when they reached the bottom of the steps and she wondered… did he not want to let her go?

His hand drifted off her and she silently admonished herself for such a foolish thought.

“Nettle,” she said, reaching out her hand in search of the young woman.

“Right here,” Nettle said, taking her hand.

Snow pulled her into a hug and whispered, “I will miss you so much.”

Nettle sniffed back tears. “And I you. Life was so good with you here.”

They hugged and Nettle stepped away.

“I’ve come to say good-bye.”

“Twilla,” Snow said, recognizing her voice.

Twilla wrapped Snow in a hug and whispered, “You’ll be back.”

Her words stunned Snow. There would be no reason for her to return here.

“Take care,” Twilla said for everyone to hear.

Snow felt a large presence in front of her and she knew instinctively who it was.

“I would tell you to be good, but I don’t think that’s possible,” Tarass said, keeping his voice low. “Take care and stay well.”

His hands were suddenly at her waist and he lifted her onto a horse, and then he was gone.