Deception

Chapter 28

"Don’t tell me the Nightwatchman’s been dipping into the profits!" Robin's voice startled me as I jumped slightly. I chuckled as I continued to brush my horse, as it munched on a freshly picked apple. It was sunset; the sky looked on fire, as the soft breeze blew through the stables.

"Some men take pleasure in giving women gifts." I happily toyed with Robin as he chuckled and pointed to the horse as he stroked his nose.

"This is a lot of gift." He admitted as he continued to strokes the horse’s mane between its eyes, and then leans on the post, his bow strung against his back. He watched me for a little while before he had to ruin the perfect chilled moment.

"And tell me; was it a lot of pleasure? And how were you thinking of reciprocating?" He asked me flippantly and I knew he was jealous as well as I scoffed.

"Maybe you’d find out if you gave me a gift. As it is... turns to the horse... you only come out of the woodwork to ask me for favours. Like now. So?" I growled at him as I turned brushing my hands against my dress. Robin sighed shaking his head though he knew it was perfectly true.

"I just came to ask about Edward" He told me looking up. I knew he was telling me the truth; his eyes gave everything away as I gave a small smile.

"He is much better. He is planning on leaving for business in a week" I answered him as he frowned as straightened against the post.

"You're staying behind? Alone?" He questioned as I rolled my eyes. Did he really think I was that incapable of taking care of myself? Honestly men think woman are pathetic sometimes.

"Yes and?" I questioned as I folded my arms over my chest to see him look slightly concerned.

"Dangerous people about. Outlaws" He joked as I let out a smile as we laughed before we both fell silent.

"I'll be alright Robin. If it makes you feel better I will stay in the castle whilst he is away. I have always been your spy on the inside" I chuckled as he nodded. I could see he was weighing the options in his head. If I stayed here I would be much happier, though Robin would think I would do something foolish. If I stay in the castle then I would be under Guy and the Sheriff's nose and eye twenty-four seven.

An owl hoot echoed through the darkening night as Robin growled slightly before pulling me into a tight hug. He smelt of oak and the forest as I gave him a tight hug. He kissed my forehead before disappearing into the night leaving me alone with my new horse. I smiled before I made my way back to the main house to find my father out of bed…