— For some reason, the previous weekend has made me feel mentally vulnerable. More so than usual. It’s weird, but I’m trying to pull myself out of it. Anyway…

Night became absolute and Gabs slept fitfully.
Her mind created and replayed the situation of the conversation. She, Aldren, and Saddy would stand in a room, perhaps the inner chamber. The walls were thick and private. What was said there would not travel and could offer the feeling of security.

At first, they would stand in a triangle. Gabs knew that her existence would be generally ignored by Saddy and, at first, her voice may not register. Aldren would be quiet out of respect and anticipation of Saddy’s reaction. Aldren, of course, would know the purpose of Gabs’ meeting. She wouldn’t have to say a word. He would just know.

Gabs pictured herself moving closer to Aldren as she explained their relationship and the state of their little kingdom. She would emphasize the woes, such as the insecurity the people feel, the lack of food, and missing skilled laborers. The people were depressed, angry, and upset.

Aldren was their leader. People looked to him for strength and confidence. To have that type of effect, he needed to have those qualities as part of his core. Saddy was unintentional, although Gabs couldn’t be certain, undermining him.

The people saw them together. They did not show affection and, for Saddy’s part, barely acknowledged the people around her. The villagers were non-existent, not even cattle. They were shadows in the air and movements in the wind that, ultimately, amounted to nothing.

Gabs knew that she had the strength, love, and adoration for Aldren that Saddy lacked. With her, he could inspire the people. He could be a defender. A provider. He would never be alone and whatever happened to those men wouldn’t have happened. Somehow, her existence and support would be protection against any hardship.

Gabs lips curled into a slight smile. Her eyes closed and her mind delved deeper and dreams were created.

The situation continued.

Saddy would leave the room. In her dream, Saddy was crying although Gabs knew that would never be the case. She didn’t think Saddy had ever shed a tear in her life.

Aldren would take her hand. His firm fingers would wrap around hers. Embracing, Gabs would stand on her toes to kiss him. Instinctually, she knew that it would be important for her to make the first move as Aldren would be uncertain and, maybe, a little shy.

Their lips would touch and she would feel his being from that touch. Gabs knew she would his soul, his person, his weakness, and his essence through that touch.

She would reach up, place her hand on the back of his head, and curl her fingers into his hair. Tugging at his locks, he would bend his head further. The kiss would become deeper and his hands would go from her waist to her shoulders. With thing fingers crusted by blisters and work, he would trace her shoulder blades. Starting at bottom of her skull, he would massage her spine before whole handedly circling under her arms and bringing his palms to her breasts.

Still kissing, she would lead him over to the bed, seeking entrance to his through the long crimson robes until she found the smooth chest.

Her touch would be gentle, feeling battle scars and the definition of his muscles. Until.
Until…

Gabs dream faded into a silver cloud with twinkling fringe.