*TRIGGER WARNING*
This chapter references to Sexual assault!
Gabel rode as fast as he could through the continuing downpour. Though he thought perhaps he should have cleaned himself up, his excitement overpowered his logic.
He raced up the small dirt path for two miles till the serene farm came into sight.
At the house he pulled back on the reins causing his steed to slide forward in the mud.
He Leaped off, and ran up to the porch.
Before he could even knock the door flung open.
The older white haired woman stood in the doorway, a shocked expression covering her face.
"I am so happy you have returned!"
She stepped forward and hugged him.
Gabel furrowed his brows.
"Is everything... alright?"
The woman moved away and glanced back for a moment before pulling the door shut.
"What is the meaning of this?"
She let out a shaky breath, "I know Elara will likely not say anything, so I must take this opportunity tell you now. After you left, a couple other knights came by."
Gabel grabbed the woman's shoulders, "Who? Tell me at once!"
"I do not know, but it was obvious she knew them. One of them...called out for her, he threatened to burn our farm down...if she wouldn't go with them."
The woman turned her gaze towards the ground.
"I could hear her struggle in the distance...."
Gabel shook the woman, "Speak plainly! These knights came here and harmed her?"
"She will not speak of what actually happened . . .but one can guess what took place."
Gabel's loosened his hands on the woman's shoulders.
"It wasn't just once. He returned several times since you have been away. He was just here the day before yesterday."
The woman again wrapped her arms around Gabel's waist.
"I am just so happy you have returned! My husband was going to ride to the Earl, to tell him of this but Elara wouldn't let him. The knight must have threatened to do something grave."
Gabel patted the woman's back once then pulled her away from his body, "Take me to her now."
The older woman backed away and opened the door, leading him inside.
They walked through the main living area, where Gabel had first seen his son last month. Then down a hall the woman stopped in front of a small wooden door and knocked.
"Elara....Sir G.."
Suddenly the door flung open.
There she was.
Standing in the doorway of a small bedroom with Cassian in her arms.
"Gabel!?"
Immediately Gabel stepped forward and passionately kissed her.
Cassian who was between their two bodies bursted out into tears.
Gabel flinched backwards at his sons sudden reaction.
"I'm sorry I didn't mean to upset him.."
Elara shook her head, "Its alright, he was just startled that's all."
She turned her head to Cassian and kissed him on the head.
"Shhh Calm down my love. . Do you not remember Gabel? He has come to see us again."
