Gavin shook his head, not in refusal it seemed, mayhap just to rid his confusion. He brought his hands before him where they remained in wait. Gwen made no move, then Gavin’s eyes narrowed, and he began to circle her. She followed with her head, her hands finally fisting.

Greylen’s head tilted to the side, his own eyes narrowing as he took in the scene before him. His wife, in a stance clearly meant for battle. His first-in-command displaying the actions he himself had begged for on countless occasions. Yet this time, ’twas his mistress whom he served.

Unsure, he stood, his mother pulling him back. “Let her find some solace, Greylen,” she pleaded. “She’s so like you.”

’Twas those words that finally broke through. His wife was in fact like him. Strong and determined. She used her body to work through the things which plagued her most. From the corner of his eye, he saw Anna at the end of the hallway and motioned with his hand for her to prepare their room. She’d swiftly see to a bath by the fire. His full attention on the center of the entryway, he waited, his own hands fisted as well. Gavin began to circle his wife, taunting her with a stare, moving his arms as he readied himself. And still Greylen knew not what for.

Then it began, and the display took his breath away.

His wife engaged, hitting Gavin’s palms with quick punches, straight, and then from below. She grunted as she delivered each blow, while Gavin threw her hands back, harder after each assault. They became embroiled in a game, the likes of which he’d never seen before. And he almost smiled with pride.

She was amazing.

She kicked at Gavin’s arms from the side now, turning to deliver more from behind. Gavin’s defense was harsh, throwing aside each of her blows, and now both made sounds as they battled. It continued for endless minutes, no finish in sight. Finally, he could take no more.

“ENOUGH,” he shouted, standing to move before her.

He grabbed Gwen’s arm and led her from the room. They spoke not a word as they ascended the stairs and entered their chamber. He led her to the tub and removed her clothing before lifting her into the water. She remained silent, staring into the fire as he washed her. Then he wrapped her in a towel and placed her on the hearth.

He stood before her now, arms crossed over his chest as he waited for an explanation. She finally looked at him.

“I—” She shook her head.

“You’ll tell me, Gwen, now.”

“I—”

She started crying, silent tears at first, but then she became consumed, head on her knees as her body shook. And still he didn’t understand, but he knelt and wrapped her in his arms.

“I—” She still couldn’t finish.