Chapter 27: Whispers on the Wind

Randelle

I woke to pale dawn light filtering through the curtained window. Beside me Jeremy slept on, the steady rise and fall of his chest reassuringly familiar. I took a moment to trace the beloved planes of his bearded face, relaxed in repose, before easing from the quilted nest of furs.

After washing and braiding back my hair, I moved quietly to the kitchen to start water boiling. The simple domestic tasks soothed my churning thoughts. Soon rich coffee aroma filled the small cabin, mingling with sounds of Jeremy stirring in the next room.

I savored the peace of breaking fast with my mate as the rising sun lent its golden glow. We lingered over emptied plates, speaking little but communicating much through tangled fingers and lingering glances.

All too soon duty's call could be ignored no longer. With a sigh I stood, gathering up my training gear. Jeremy's fingers caught my wrist, halting my motions.

"You seem uneasy this morn, my heart." His hazel eyes searched my face. "Is the