Words Left Unspoken: 1st Revision ('Unfinished Work')
A dark figure stepped out of the shadows into the courtyard. It paused for a moment then turned and began walking toward one of the fountains along the perimeter of the garden. Its footsteps, though they hardly made a sound on the marble walk, were labored and hesitant. Upon the fountain sat a young maiden gazing deeply into its waters. She did not look up as the mysterious silhouette approached her. It paused yet again about five feet from where she sat and studied her as though it were deciding upon its next move, when at last it bowed low to the ground.
“My lady.”
She gasped in fear turning to see what it was that had startled her.
Great, I scared her. Smooth Réo! His eyes remained focused on the ground in front of him. He could feel her eyes passing over him. I wonder if she’s missed me.
“Réo!”
She stood from where she sat and ran over to him. He rose quickly to catch her. She threw her arms around him.
“You’re home!” She said holding him tight.
“Yes, for a short time at least.” He regretted his words as he heard them spoken.
“So you mean not to stay?” She said withdrawing and turning from him.
“No, I cannot.”
“Of course, I should have known that even banishment couldn’t bring you home to stay.”
“I’m sorry Allyn, but I can’t turn my back on Dunwin, especially now.”
“I know. ‘A servant’s work is never done.’ Jerak taught you well.”
Their eyes met for a moment, but unable to contain the grief swelling up inside him, Réo quickly looked away. I wish things didn’t have to be like this, but I have no other choice. I can’t give her what she desires, not anymore. And why did she have to mention his name?
“Actually I glad you came. There’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you.”
“Yeah? What’s that?” He said attempting to overcome his sorrow.
“Ránnos has asked for my hand in marriage.”
He stood paralyzed with shock. No! You can’t!
“What did you tell him?” He asked claimly.
“I told him I needed time to think it over.”
“And have you?”
“Yes, but I still don’t know what to do?”
“What did Leon say?”
“He told me that Ránnos was an honorable man and that we are most fortunate to have him representing Aqueron on the council. He hopes Ránnos might serve to restore the High Council to its former glory in the days of Jerak. He said that he is loyal and trustworthy and that day he believes he will make someone a fine husband, but the decision had to be mine.”
Réo shuttered having heard the name of Jerak spoken of yet again.
“Réo? You know Ránnos better than anyone. Should I do it?”
“I think your brother’s right. You have to be the one to decide that.”
“Please, Réo. I need to know. Is my brother right about him?”
Réo took the deepest breathe he could ever remember taking. Relax! This is what you wanted. This way she can put you behind her and maybe even be happy again. But I love her! Then let her go, so that she can do the same.
At long last, he finally spoke. “Although I doubt the influence your brother believes Ránnos could have on the council, he is a good man.”
“Thank you Réo. I knew I could count on you.” She said embracing him once again.
“You’re Welcome.” He choked out.
He held her but at a distance, instead of drawing her close as he wanted to, until he could finally bare it no longer. He released her and hid his anguish.
“Rowin is expecting me.”
“Very well. Good bye Réo. It was nice to see you again.”
“As it was you, my lady.” He bowed his head to her then left for his brother’s house, the house that had once been Jerak’s.