Dalliance

Chapter Forty Two

"Thank you." Dawson spoke as he moved his way from the alchemist's tent towards Holly who had began chewing on her fingernails nervously.

"Will he be alright?"

"He will have to heal for several days to make his recovery permanent."

"And you?"

Pulling up his shirt to show his stitches, she traced her fingers on the wound before bringing her hand then over hear heart.

"I am so sorry for everything. My stubbornness has caused such a deep pain for all...I am begging for your forgiveness."

He gave a smirk before pulling her towards the tent that was placed for his recovery. Decorated with only a few blankets, a pillow, and a lantern, they made their way inside as he placed his hands upon her cheeks; his gaze falling deep into hers.

"You have always had it, I apologize for my own acts...I did what I had for your protection...I believed regal man with fortunes such as the Auvere family could not be bought...I was mistaken...Can you forgive me?"

Slowly nodding, she slid her fingers behind his neck and pulled him into a deep kiss. Gliding his hand against her back, he then moved her towards the middle of the tent where she pulled his shirt over his head. Tracing his wound once more, she kissed it before he pulled her into him. Trying to remove her corset by the strings, he became impatient and used a knife to complete the job. With her corset falling to her feet, she kicked it towards the side and was standing in only her bare skin. His hand curved to her butt and picked her up against him until setting her down on the blankets that were made from the fur of animals. With the flickering lantern, they explored one another as she removed his pants, leaving him bare as well. Exchanging kisses and alternating positions with him being on top then her being on top, Dawson slid himself between her legs. A small wince left her lips until they were replaced with deep moans. Gripping the fur at her sides, she moved in sync with his body as he groaned against her neck. His hair falling over his eyes as their bodies began to grow with perspiration.

Holding her down, he continued his thrusts passionately until she claimed dominance. Gripping his jaw with her hand, she then trailed her hands on his chest, until they rested upon his stomach. His grip lingered upon her hips as she rocked back and forth, letting out moans.

Upon awaking, Dawson found the spot Holly once rested was vacant and her clothes had been missing. Fearful that something had happened, he awoke with a jolt before feeling a piece of parchment beside him. Drawing it to his gaze, he glared to it before crumpling it in his hand, the final sentences lingering in his mind-slowly breaking his heart; "I desired one night of true passion with the man I love, and will forever continue to do so. You and I know there is no end to this war...live your life with a family of your own and one filled with happiness and love. You deserve only that. I beg your understanding for my decision and demand you do not come after me. It will only lead to a useless battle."

Glaring at the paper, he then threw it into the fire and moved towards Nicholas who sitting at a nearby table eating a broth.

"You are going to get me those men, or I will see to it that everything you love is sacrificed in front of you. Then...you will die the most painful death possible. I know you told them where we were...in hopes of not having to make good on your end...but now...you have no option."