I reach inside the basket to make sure there’s nothing else in there. “How were you able to spin all this so quickly?”
“Once I start something, I’m quick to get it done.”
“I can see.” I set the basket aside. “So, did you find anything out about the dyed threads?”
“Not yet, but I haven’t had a chance to look.”
“What do you think you’ll find?”
“I’m not sure, but I’m hoping to discover what is making the colors appear to move.”
“How will you do that?”
“I have multiple lenses I plan on using, to make the threads appear larger.”
“I swear, you’re like a litterateur.”
“You’re not the first to say that, and Elena has already asked me to tutor the children that will eventually come.”
“I think the entire village would agree that there is no better person for the job.”
She frowns. “I don’t think I’ll be able to handle the noise.”
“Just make sure you don’t pick a mate close to Elena and Meg.”
She shifts uncomfortably, and I regret bringing up the word mate.
With much to be done, I lift the basket. “This ought to keep me busy. Thanks again.”
“Will you be going out with Ramsey for more bugs?”
“I asked if he’d bring me out, but he said no.”
“Dogan and I will be leaving the village for a few days to explore further inland, to help with the map I’m making. You could come with us. Dogan is getting our route approved with Grixis right now. Apparently, there are whispers that travel might be restricted.”
“Oh, I wouldn’t want to intrude.”
“Intrude?”
“On your trip. With Dogan.”
“You wouldn’t be intruding,” she deadpans.
Bless her heart, she really doesn’t know…
As I’m about to tell her I’m too busy to leave, I recall Elena’s advice.
Whatever fantasies I have of Ramsey are just that—fantasies. The reality of him is cold, harsh, and brutal. There will be no smiles of affection from him, or kind words when I’m feeling down.
There will be talk of honor and weakness, and I’ll never feel like I’m enough.
Traveling will force my mind from him, and perhaps, when I return, the men will see me in a new light, and I’ll no longer look so weak.
“I guess maybe I should go.”
She nods curtly. “Pack a bag. We’ll be leaving before first light.”
After she’s left, I gather a needle, thread, and a weaving board for when we’re camped, shoving them and a change of clothes in a linen tote I made for myself. Then, I start weaving more bedding.
