Minette adds his comments to her small treasure of knowledge. She had not known there were other kingdoms. Perhaps not all monarchs were as cruel as Gryffen's Queen seemed to be? Maybe she could find help. If she could build Gryffen's trust, maybe there was hope for a life beyond the mountains. She felt lost and hopelessly alone. No one in this land even knew she existed except for the white stallion. He could murder and torture and rape, and no one would be aware. She almost retorts that she wishes someone would kidnap her, but she thinks better of it. The thick scar above her eye is still healing.
Minette blanches at his mention of the child. He is relentless. His every word pokes at her, challenging and pushing, proving that he is in control. He make no secret of his impatience and disgust. The gray mare withers inside, certain he is, at best, going to deny her request, and at worst, punish her for her audacity at even asking such a thing.
“I am sorry. I did not think.” Her voice is subdued, even as tears threaten to well up. She had hoped and hope can be difficult to extinguish.
He speaks again and relief floods her features. She is a clear pool of emotions, every ripple showing. Having never needed to hide her feelings before, Minette finds the idea itself a struggle. Even the condition of the shadow raven accompanying her cannot dampen her small show of spirit. She winces slightly as its talons clutch at her back, and glances at Gryffen. She pauses, her emotions warring between gratitude and resentment. Never before in Minette's life has she been treated like this, and her heart has not acepted her conditon.
Finally she speaks.
“Thank you, sir.” She keeps her voice steady, unaware that her features are as transparent as they are. “When you next leave, I will visit the Meadow.”
She longs for him to say that he is through with her, that he has not further use of her company. And most of all, Minette hopes that he will not speak of their child.