132 Life with you part 7 (2/2)

He laughed, ”There are many different types of dance, it typically depends on what part of the world you're in and what music is playing. ”I learned this one in France. Would you like to learn more?” When she nodded he spun her once again and began humming louder. He would only break the humming to give her brief directions, information, or simply to compliment her efforts.

By the time they were both tired the sun had already began to set. Jos's troubled eyes met his. ”Will we make it to the inn tonight?” She asked.

He shook his head. ”Not tonight. Tonight we'll stay at a nearby village and see more of the area in the morning.” When she only nodded, he asked. ”Are you ready to go there now? I know I could use a meal.”

Jos nodded more firmly this time.

”Then let's head that way.” He took her hand and guided her back down the steep path to where the horse waited. He lifted her up and climbed on behind her as usual. He smiled as her hands glided along his arms tracing the tattoos as he held the reins. ”The majority of those simply mean courage, bravery, and skills related to war. Though their meanings have faded or changed over the years, they still serve their purpose I suppose.”

”And what would that be?” She asked.

”To tell a story, a story that is only mine.” He answered.

Her tired eyes met his, ”When will you tell me your story?” He smiled down at her but even in the faint light she could see some other emotion just below the smile.

He released the reins with one hand and pulled her tighter against his chest. ”Soon, Love, soon.” He bent and placed a light kiss on her forehead. ”We're almost there.”

When they stopped in front of an inn, Arei leaped down with her in his arms. She'd fallen asleep once again, and this time he hadn't bothered waking her. He balanced her in one arm and carried the saddlebags in the other. He looked over the inn owner as he walked through the doors. He was a slight, older man. ”My bride and I need a room for the night.” Arei said, ”And I would like a bath sent up.” He sat the saddlebags down and tossed some coin on the counter the man stood behind.

The old man eyed them both before saying, ”This is a reputable establishment. I'll not be having less than honorable guests. If this be your wife, let her wake and tell it.”

Arei frowned but nodded. ”Kitten,” He gently whispered against her ear. ”Wake, Love, we're here.” Her eyes flickered open only momentarily before she smiled and nuzzled into his neck, closing her eyes again. He smiled down at her, ”Kitten, the owner would like a word.”

”Hum?” She moaned, her tiny hand moved up his chest to his neck, but her eyes didn't open.

The inn keeper's lips turned up in a smile and he nodded. He handed Arei a key. ”Top floor, last door on your left.”

Arei nodded and bent to grab the bag from the floor. He took the steps of the three floors slowly as to not jostle his sleeping bundle. Pushing open the last door on the left, Arei let out a pleased sign. The room was far nicer than the last place they'd stayed. He set the bag down at the door and carried Jos to the larger bed. He pulled back the covers and kissed her forehead before setting her down. He then moved to the fireplace and began building it up to a nice glow.

He was straightening when a light rap at the door sounded and the maids and stable boy came in, one carrying a tub the others carrying steaming water. The last maid that came in brought a plate of dried meat, bread, and cheese. ”The master said yer young bride may be hungry when she wakes. His treat.” The young girl nodded to the plate that she set on the table closest the door.

She was now naked and stepping into the tub with him.