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“How are you?” She asked hushedly, leaning on the doorway, a candle in her hand. Atuat turned on her side and propped her head up on one hand. Hei-Ran had her hair down and a thin nightgown on, no cane. Reckless. “Tired.” She sighted: “Lonely.” Hei-Ran staggered in and put the candle down. “I’m sorry.” She extended a hand so Atuat would help her to the bed. The journey had exhausted them both: “I’m going to tell her.” “I know.” “You’re sullen.” “I’m tired.” Hei-Ran looked down, then over. She traced Atuat’s hips, stroke her waist, and smiled tenderly: “May I sleep here?” She was tempted to say no, to mess with her. She considered it. But no, they were too tired, too many knots away. “Sure.” She said, moving over.
Hei-Ran untied her nightgown and allowed it to slip down her arms. “Do you…” “No.” She interrupted Atuat, leaning over and pulling the silken dress away, slowly. “Thank you.” Hei-Ran twisted her hair and turned to lay on Atuat’s chest. Then, she stretched one arm across her body and pressed lightly on her side, her heat spreading over. Her heart beat strong against Atuat’s. Her skin was so smooth. Her touch so soothing. Still… Would it be too warm when summer came? She wondered. Would the days be endless and the nights too short? Then, Hei-Ran kissed her breast and held her tighter. Atuat sighted, relieved, and kissed her head. “I love you.” Hei-Ran said, simply. “I love you too.” She answered.