The Timing of the Loss of a Love

Chapter Nine

Discomfort filled me as consciousness slowly returned to my being. The smell of food, strong and wonderfull coaxed me from my drowsy state. I breathed in deeply, taking in the scent of both the food and my bed. My fingers traced the soft edge of my pillow case which rested against my warm dark sheets. I heard the dying cracks of the remaining embers of the previous evening's flames.

My eyes opened slowly, allowing small slits of light to enter my senses. I could see the wood grain of my bedpost, which was very close to my face. I slowly rolled my stiff body over in the soft fluffy warmth which some call bed.

Now staring at my cream ceiling, I began to really take in the smells of food. Eggs, breads, and bacon filled me with excitement! I quickly, and somewhat reluctantly, tossed my blankets aside. Swinging my now chilly legs over the side of the mattress I let my pale toes rest on the dark wooden floor.

Once I allowed myself to get used to the rough texture of the wood I slowly stood from my bed. While my slight, nimble fingers toyed with the hem of my night gown, I walked to the opposite side of the room where the coat hanger stood.

Choosing a fuzzy robe, I pulled it over my soft skin, and over my light gown. Tying the thick strings in a knot I opened the heavy wooden door permitting myself access to the stairs.

Walking quickly as I dared, and as fast as my still sleepy body could carry me, I trotted through the quiet house to the small kitchen.

Upon entering the kitchen all the wonderful smells from my bedroom became stronger and more vibrant. I saw the table's grand display of many fruits, and jams, and breads which had been carefully prepared. As well as Eramif standing in front of the stove, slaving away over the strips of meat and yellow fluff.

I stood in the doorway for a few moments, watching him prepare our breakfast. His focus impressed me. I never knew somebody could be so intent upon flipping a few strips of bacon. I shifted my feet slightly, unintentionally bringing attention to myself. Eramif turned quickly to see what the source of the noise had been. Upon seeing me his tense shoulder relaxed slightly. He smiled kindly at me before turning back to the pan on the stove.

"How are you today my dear?" He said softly.

"Fine thank you." I replied quickly.

There were a few silent moments after our short exchange. Filled only with the sizzling and popping sound of the bacon.

"Well," Eramif started, "I have to go into town today. You seem well enough to go out.. er, if you wish to go with me, I would be honored to host you."

His proposal surprised me at first. For, even though I've been getting much better the past few weeks: basically meaning I'm now mobile, and what were once ribs only covered by stretched skin is now squishy and healthy stomach fat, I surely hadn't expected to be given this wonderful opportunity! It had been quite a long while since I'd gone into town. I truly missed seeing the people there. I knew none of them but it was still nice to know that the human race didn't consist of Eramif and myself. I also missed the feeling of the town, all the warm cozy shops with their red brick walls and pointed roofs. The town square which was hardly short of bustling shoppers. The beautiful ladies with their handsome gentlemen enjoying each other's company. All the different smells of lovely pastries and foods, and the constant feel of the air about me.

My visits to town had truly been the highlights of my weeks when I was a child. Madame Lea would often take me to window shop with her. We would look at all the beautiful cakes and pastries together.

"Yes please! I would enjoy going to town with you!"

He turned slightly again, his dark hair, which was sprinkled slightly with silver now, gleamed in the bright morning light which streamed through the window. He eyed me, playfully laughing at my eagerness. His eyes glimmered with child-like joy. He turned to face the stove once more while my cheeks turned a slight pink. He'd never looked at me like that before, he almost glared, but not in anger. It was strange and I pushed it from my mind as I rounded the large wooden table.