Chapter Fourteen
Hugh rode through Dapple Bend and across the village common, with his father and Tam and the Ironfists. The meadow opened out in front of him, golden-green, scattered with wildflowers. Hugh’s eyes fastened on the whitewashed little cottage. Five days since he’d left its safety. Five days since he’d trundled away in a wagon, guarded by Tam and Cadoc. Five days since he’d last seen Ivy.
His throat was strangely tight. It was stupid to be nervous, and yet he was more nervous than he’d ever been in his life, his hands sweating on the reins, his heart beating unnecessarily fast. Gods, please let me say the right thing.
He saw a young boy running across the meadow, followed by the two huge red-brown hounds, heard peals of childish laughter and deep joyful barks.
A cluster of
