Snippet #1872275

"I can't afford to lose you. I'm afraid that one day you will go and leave me. When you realize that I'm not worth the trouble. When the wars go on because our families find out about us. I don't want you to go, Kale." Anne told him fearfully. He hated seeing that fear in her ocean blue eyes. He wanted her to know that he would protect her when others tried to tear them down, and never leave her if the cavalry marched to try and separate them. Kale would stand his ground if faced by a thousand soldiers trying to tear them apart from each other, and he would never give up. Anne was worth every tear that would be shed, and every heart ache or pain in would cost him.

With her head resting against his shoulder, he reached up with one hand and gently stroked her silky hair. Kale needed her to feel safe. To know that he would keep her safe. Because he would. Kale heard the birds cease chirping, as if they could sense the need for silence. The wind fell, and suddenly the only people who mattered any more were the two of them.

He turned his head slightly, and whispered in her ear. "You're worth anything our parents try to throw in our way. And I'll fight through the Dire Woods every single day of my life just to see you, Anne. If that's what it takes... I will. There isn't enough trial or trouble to keep me away." He paused, "I promise." Kale whispered, as he pulled away from her ear, and looked down into her eyes. He could so easily become lost in her eyes. Like a ship in the sea, caught by the waves.

Kale caught himself leaning forward to kiss her, but stopped himself, and froze. He was sure that would be overstepping his bounds. They had just met, afterall. Besides, she probably didn't want to... no. He inched away, half-hoping she hadn't noticed he momentary lapse of concentration.