The next morning, Cormac and Deirdre's home is shrouded in silence. Deirdre's movements are mechanical, her eyes vacant, still reeling from the loss of her grandmother. Cormac watches, his frown etched with concern, as he dresses beside her. His gaze lingers on her dejected form, his heart aching to ease her pain. As he finishes dressing, Cormac's eyes never leave Deirdre's face, his expression a mix of empathy and helplessness. Cormac's gentle touch on Deirdre's shoulder sparks a connection, and she looks up, her eyes meeting his. He offers a soft, comforting smile, and she responds with a shaky, vulnerable one. Without a word, Cormac opens his arms, inviting her into a warm, sheltering embrace. Deirdre accepts, burying her face in his chest, her arms wrapping tightly around him. As they hold each other, Cormac's lips brush against her forehead. He pulls back, his eyes taking in the beauty of her face, her features etched with sorrow. He leans in, his lips meeting hers in a soft, gentle kiss, his arms still cradling her. For a moment, they linger, lost in the comfort of each other's embrace. Then, Deirdre pulls away, her smile still shaky, but her eyes a little brighter. Cormac's fingers caress her cheeks, his touch soothing, as he begins to speak, his voice a gentle whisper of reassurance.

(C)I love you, Deirdre, my beautiful sunflower.

(DD)I love you too, Mic, my handsome goblin.

(C)Would you like to talk to me?

(DD)About what?

(C)About what you’ve been going through.

(DD)...Not really, I want to go to the shop today. I have to keep tending to the flowers, otherwise they’ll start to wilt.

(C)Deirdre, please talk to me. I’m here to help you.

(DD)No, you have a lot to worry about. I can’t put any burdens on you.

(C)It wouldn’t be a burden, please, I want to help you

(DD)Let’s just finish getting ready for the day and go to the shop.

(C)You might want to let Kate know that you’re not going to join them in today’s women’s day out.

(DD)Yeah, I should. We’ll head to the pub. That’s where they’ll be meeting up.

(C)Alright, if there’s anything I can do, please let me know. I’m always here.

(DD)I’ll be okay, my love. Let’s finish and go.

(C)[sigh] Alright, sweetheart.

Cormac and Deirdre complete their preparations and set out to join Kate and the others at the pub, where they plan to inform the women of Deirdre's absence from the women's day out in the city. Upon entering the pub, they're immediately enveloped in the warm atmosphere and the gentle hum of conversation. They weave through the bustling crowd of patrons, their eyes scanning the familiar faces until they spot their group gathered at their usual table. The atmosphere is electric with anticipation, the women's excitement visible as they prepare to indulge in a day of shopping, laughter, and bonding. Meanwhile, Merig, Barth, Thomas, and Merig Senior prepare to head to the queen's prison to give Sean his weekly beatings. As Cormac and Deirdre approach, they are met with a chorus of smiles and greetings from Joanna and the other women, Deirdre's subdued expression hints at a somber mood.

(J)Good morning, Deirdre, and Cormac. How are you both this morning?

(C)We’re doing alright, still just waking up.

(K)Are you ready for our women’s day, Deirdre?

(S)We were just waiting for you. We’re going to have a lot of fun.

(EM)I even got invited. I think it’ll be good for me to get out.

(A)Yeah, we were hoping it would be good for you as well, hon, it’ll help you distract yourself.

(DD)...I’m sorry to say but, I won't be joining you ladies this time around. I need to go to the shop again today, I have to tend to the flowers. I want to open the shop soon, so I have to make sure everything is taken care of.

(J)Oh, okay, sweetheart. Is there anything you need?

(DD)No, ma’am, I'll see you all later.

(K)Okay, hon, let us know if you need anything.

(A)We love you, Deirdre. If you change your mind, come find us at the marketplace.

(S)We’re more than willing to save a spot for you.

(EM)It’ll be fun if you decide to.

(DD)I appreciate it. I'll see you all later. I love you, Mic.

(C)I love you too, sunflower.

Deirdre's shaky smile falters as she turns away, her eyes welling up with unshed tears. She hastily exits the pub, leaving behind a trail of concerned glances and somber faces. The group watches her departure in silence, their expressions reflecting their helplessness. Cormac's frown deepens, his sigh heavy with frustration and defeat. He turns to the group, his voice laced with despair. His words convey a sense of desperation and hopelessness, his efforts to help Deirdre seemingly in vain.

(C)[sigh] I tried really hard to get her to talk to me. You were right. She said she doesn't want to burden me.

(K)As I suspected, you've got to try harder to let her know. She'll sink deeper into this depression, Cormac. I know we said give her time, but as I thought about it last night, the more it reminded me of myself when I went through the aftermath of the chaos that happened last year. I was falling so far into this black abyss, that I couldn't get out on my own. I didn't want to ask Merig for help, but I needed him and he wanted to help me. I said the same thing she did and things weren't getting better for me. I finally realized I needed Merig’s help, so I swallowed my pride and talked to him. It was the best decision I made at the time, especially for my mental health.

(M)I’m going to have to agree. I thought I was losing Kate, and I thought she would leave me. But she just needed my help, and her silence was a cry for help. I answered the cry, and I reassured her that she wasn't a burden. But she’s my number one priority and the most important thing to me because I love her.

(K)Deirdre is your priority, Cormac. Don't be afraid to reach your hand out to pull her from the abyss. She’ll thank you for it, just like she did the first time when you two fell in love.

(C)You’re right, I need to do better, as a future husband and as a father to her child. I have to be the hero again, and to be honest, I'm okay with that. As long as Deirdre is happy again, then it'll be worth it.

(L)You got this, pal. We did our best to pull you out of the abyss not too long ago. Deirdre ended up doing it for us. She's the strongest one out of all of us when it comes to you.

(G)Do what you did for her then, Cormac, be her light again, and help her find her way like you want to, like you need to.

(B)Do it not only for her sake but for Connor’s sake. Make sure that the baby is healthy. Pay Nessa a visit.

(M)You can do it, buddy. She's the love of your life, and you're hers.

(S)Take her in your arms and don't let go until she realizes she's not a burden.

(C)Right, I'll do my best. I'm sorry I'm taking up your time, ladies. I'm sure you want to go and have fun. You as well, Merig, give Sean a good beating for me. You too, Tom.

(T)Absolutely, Cormac, go give Deirdre some extra love.

(Msr)Everything will be okay, Cormac, just let Deirdre know that. Be there and don’t leave her side like you promised.

(O)We’re cheering for you, dear. Offer help, even if she refuses it. It may seem forceful, but if you don’t, it’ll just get worse.

(M)I know we said it would get better if you just let her grieve, and she can do that, but don’t let her grieve alone. I can tell she’s in pain and she needs the help, but she doesn’t want to say anything.

(K)I could see it too, just looking at her before she left. I can tell she needs help.

(J)Go to the shop and see if she needs help with anything. Start with that. Give her space, but don’t completely leave her side. Keep that hand extended to her so she can pull herself out of that depression. The sight of you brings her peace and light. When you’re not there, it’s just dim. Stay by her side and keep shining brightly for her. She may not tell you she needs it, but she does and we can tell.

(C)Thank you, Jo, and everyone else. I want her to know that she can rely on me. I won’t give up on her.

(K)I’m sure she doesn’t want that either. You didn’t give up on her in the beginning and she didn’t give up on you.

(C)I know that’s one reason I love her so much. She stayed by my side when I didn’t think I deserved it. She’s done so much for me, it’s time I return the favor.

(M)Go get her, buddy, she needs you. Take her home and spend time with her.

(C)I will, I’ll see you all later.

(J)We’ll see you later, Cormac, good luck.

(C)Thanks, I’ll need it.

Cormac bids the group farewell, his expression somber, before turning to exit the pub. The group disperses, their paths diverging like the branches of a tree. The women, eager to begin their day out, make their way to the vibrant marketplace, their laughter and chatter carrying on the breeze. Merig, Barth, Merig Senior, and Thomas head towards Rath Castle, their footsteps purposeful, to visit Sean in his prison cell. Meanwhile, Gordo and Larry take up their patrol rounds for the morning. The trio of goblins and Thomas arrive at the castle, their footsteps echoing through the halls, and are escorted to the queen's throne room. As they enter, the queen's gaze falls upon them, her expression a puzzle of confusion and curiosity. Her eyes narrow, fixing on Merig Senior, as she speaks up, her voice tinged with a hint of surprise and inquiry.

(E)Good morning, Commander, Captain, and Thomas. It’s so good to see you again.

(T)It’s good to see you as well, Your Majesty. I hope you are well.

(E)I am, and I hope you and Joanna are as well.

(T)We’re doing just fine. We were excited to be here for the birth of our grandson. We wouldn’t miss it for the world. I hear you are going to hold a ceremony for him.

(E)Indeed, he will be recognized in my city. Have you and Kate picked a name, Merig?

(M)Yes, his name will be Nevan Flynn.

(E)Nevan, is the perfect name for a goblin son born from two wonderful parents.

(M)Thank you, Eirawen, there’s also someone I want you to meet.

(E)I noticed, and I’m a little curious about the unfamiliar face.

(M)Well, you’ve heard mine and Barth’s story.

(E)Yes, I remember you telling me all about it.

(M)Well, I’m sure you can guess who this unfamiliar face is.

(E)...Is that your father?

(M)Indeed it is. Dad, I’d like you to meet the queen.

(Msr)Good morning, Your Highness, I’m Merig Senior. As you can tell, my son here is my namesake. It’s wonderful to meet you.

(E)[smiles] It’s wonderful to meet you as well. How long have you been in Tara?

(Msr)About two weeks now, my wife Orla and I absolutely love your city. We’ve settled here from Belvast, the place we fled to after Orla and I were separated from our sons.

(E)Merig enlightened me with that story. I’m so sorry you went through all of that, but I’m so happy that you and your sons have reunited in my city. This is a sanctuary, and you and your wife are more than welcome here, so consider yourself a beloved citizen.

(Msr)Thank you, Your Majesty, it is an honor. I didn’t think a Fomor such as myself would be in the presence of the queen, and be personally welcomed into your city.

(E)All peaceful Fomors are welcome here. Your sons have been formidable Royal Guards and have been protecting my city and its people from bandits.

(Msr)So I’ve heard, I’m very proud of them, I’ve even met their companions. Kate is a lovely woman who’s carrying my grandson and I can’t wait to meet him. The healer, Sarah, is lovely as well, and she clearly makes Barth very happy.

(E)Yes, it’s so beautiful to see that they have found love in my beautiful city. I too cannot wait until Kate and Merig’s son is born. Kate is a good friend of mine. I officiated the wedding between her and Merig and even had her ring made and their documents to make their marriage official.

(Msr)You are a gracious queen. Thank you for taking care of my sons, and daughter-in-law.

(E)Of course, I have to take care of the people who take care of my city. Kate’s altruism is very much talked about amongst the citizens, and they love her as well as I do. But it’s wonderful to meet you, Mr. Flynn. We hope you enjoy your days here in this beautiful city.

(Msr)My wife and I are loving it here already.

(E)I would love to meet her sometime as well. But I’m sure you’re here for other matters.

(M)Yes, we would like to go to the prison. My father wants to meet Sean.

(Msr)That’s right, I would like to confront the man who hurt my son, and daughter-in-law, and almost ended their lives along with my grandson’s life.

(M)Tom wants to see him as well, and so does Barth.

(B)It’s good to see you again, Eirawen.

(E)It’s always good to see you as well, Captain Flynn. Everyone follow me and I’ll take you to the prison. Right this way.

Eirawen strides confidently ahead, leading the group out of the throne room and into the bright sunlight. She navigates the familiar path, her footsteps echoing off the outside stone walls, as she guides them to the prison entrance. The door creaks open, revealing the familiar short and dimly lit corridor that leads to the stairway, which they descend in silence as usual. The corridor at the foot of the stairs stretches out before them, lined with cold, gray stone until they reach the door guarded by two watchful sentinels. Eirawen produces the key, unlocks the door, and gestures for the group to enter. As they step inside, Sean's disheveled form comes into view, his scowl a testament to his ongoing defiance. Merig Senior is ushered forward by his son, and Thomas follows closely behind, while Barth is the last to enter, closing the door with a soft thud. Eirawen hands the key to the waiting guard and departs, leaving the group to their devices. Within the cell, the group approaches Sean, their footsteps measured. Merig's voice drops to a low, growling tone, infused with disdain, as he addresses the prisoner.

(M)It’s been a while, you piece of shit, and I brought someone you haven’t met before. Say hello to my father, Merig Senior. I was named after him and we’re very similar in nature.

(Msr)I heard what you did to my son, my daughter-in-law, and my grandson who’s still growing in her womb. It’s getting very close to her time to give birth.

(M)We didn’t want to put any stress on her by bringing her here this time. So I brought my father, my father-in-law, and my brother, Barth. You remember him, the one you shot multiple times with your guns in the dungeon.

(SE)[chuckles] How’s that healer of yours?

(B)Don’t you dare talk about her, don’t even speak her name, asshole. She and I are in love and we live together. I hope that pisses you off.

(SE)[glare] Another filthy Fomor charms a woman into lying down with it.

(B)Yeah, and the best part is, I took her virginity. She wasn’t even given the chance to be with a human. Sad to hear, but it’s a victory I’m proud of.

(SE)Then you’ve made her filthy, just like you.

(B)You better watch what you say about Sarah. Or don’t, go ahead, because I’d love to come in there and cave your worthless face in.

(M)Easy, you’ll get your chance, big brother. But I think Dad should go first.

(Msr)I would love to, son, then I’ll pass him on to Tom.

(T)You’re too kind, Merig, don’t hold back either.

(Msr)Trust me, I’ve been holding back some rage ever since I heard about what he did. He doesn’t deserve mercy, and I’m sure my son has shown you his red eyes.

(SE)...He’s a demon, an abomination to life.

(Msr)You watch what you say about my son. Where do you think he gets those red eyes from?

(SE)All you Fomors are demons, and he’s impregnated Kate.

(Msr)You don’t get to speak her name either, she’ll be giving birth this week to my grandson and I can’t wait to meet him. His name is Nevan, Nevan Flynn, and he will be a wonderful addition to our family. Kate is a lovely woman and is very loved by my son. They will be a happy family and I am very proud to be a part of their lives. My wife Orla and I were separated from our sons when they were young, but we’ve recently reunited after twenty-five years. Kate told us about you and what you did to her, and I couldn’t wait to come here and meet you. I think I’m going to have fun throwing you around in there.

(T)I’d love to as well. It’s been a while, Sean.

(SE)You approve of your daughter giving birth to a demon, huh Tom?

(T)He’s no demon and neither are these peaceful Fomors that you say they are. I too, will be a proud grandfather to Nevan and you will never see the light of day again, you piece of shit. I’ll be there when she gives birth, and I might even shed a tear.

(M)I will as well, being a father and all. I’ll be there holding Kate’s hand while she’s in labor. It will be a beautiful sight to see, being able to hold my child that my beloved wife has incubated in her womb all this time. You almost killed them both, which is a sin in my book. My father will have fun with you.

(SE)He’ll be an abomination, just like you and your brother! I’ll get out of here one day, and you’ll all be dead!

Merig's face twists in a snarl as Sean's threat sets his temper ablaze. With a swift, angry motion, he produces the key and unlocks the cell door, slamming it open with a resounding crash. He storms inside, his movements fueled by fury, and seizes Sean with an iron grip. Merig yanks him to his feet, shoving him against the wall with a force that makes the stones tremble. Merig Senior follows, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to his son's unbridled rage. Together, they restrain Sean, Merig securing the thick handcuffs around his wrists with a satisfying click as Merig Senior holds him firm. Merig spins Sean around, his movements violent as Merig's fingers encircle Sean's throat, their faces inches apart, and their eyes blaze crimson, burning with an inner fire. Merig's voice is a maniacal growl, his words dripping with venom, while Merig Senior's voice echoes with a similar intensity, their crimson eyes fixed on Sean. Sean's eyes widen in terror, his face pale against the fury that surrounds him as Merig shouts at the top of his lungs, Sean's threat fueling his rage.

(M)YOU WILL NEVER LEAVE THIS CELL, YOU SON OF A BITCH! YOU CAN ONLY DREAM ABOUT EVER SEEING THE LIGHT OF DAY AGAIN, AND I’LL MAKE SURE OF IT! YOU WILL SEE OUR EYES IN YOUR NIGHTMARES AND OUR VOICES WILL RING IN YOUR EARS UNTIL IT DRIVES YOU MAD!

(Msr)You’ve lost the control you had over Kate and now you suffer the consequences of your actions. You think you’re above the law and you’re too good to be in this cell. You’re nothing in the world after what you did. You’ll never hurt my daughter-in-law ever again. You will suffer here, and I will enjoy accompanying my son every time he comes here, and gladly join him in torturing you, you sorry excuse for a human! Don’t ever issue a threat like that again.

(M)We’ll enjoy punishing you for that threat, and that means all four of us. And guess what? Barth’s eyes turn red as well. He just recently started using the ability after so long, so I’m sure he’s got some pent-up anger ready to unleash on you. Right, big brother?

A sly, sinister smile creeps across Barth's face as he steps forward, his eyes gleaming with a malevolent intensity. He enters the cell, his movements deliberate, and approaches the trio, his gaze fixed on Sean with an unnerving hunger. As he draws closer, his eyes burn with crimson fire, matching the fierce inner blaze of Merig and Merig Senior. Merig releases his grip on Sean's throat, and he gasps for air, his chest heaving against the wall. Barth seizes the opportunity, his fingers closing around Sean's shirt collar like a vice. He begins to speak in a voice that sends shivers down the spine, his words dripping with sadistic pleasure, his tone a perfect harmony with Merig's and Merig Senior's maniacal chorus.

(B)You’ll never be able to hurt my sister-in-law or my precious nephew as long as you live your pathetic life here in this cell. You failed to kill me and you failed to kill Kate while my nephew was still growing in her womb. You also threatened to kill my beloved Sarah in that dungeon, and I’ll enjoy repaying you for that for as long as I live. I made love to her and she lost her virginity to a Fomor and we continue to make love. She very much enjoys it and I’ll enjoy pissing you off every time I mention it. I might even go into detail just to see how pissed you get.[chuckles]

(SE)You disgust me, all of you!

(B)Good, I’m glad. I hope it drives you insane because you can’t do anything about it! Now if you don’t mind, I’d like to cave your face in like I said I wanted to.

(M)Patience, big brother, remember Dad gets the first go this time at beating him senseless.

(B)Of course, then I’ll hand him off to you, Dad. Just try not to kill him. Death is too good for him and we want him alive so he can feel the pain that all of us felt, especially Kate and my nephew.

(Msr)I will find great pleasure in beating him within an inch of his pathetic life. And then I will hand him off to Tom. Join us, Tom, won’t you?

(T)It’ll be my pleasure as well. You failed to learn your lesson the first two times I roughed you up, Sean. Especially when you hurt my precious daughter in that dungeon after you took Merig from her. I know I’m getting old, but I still had some fight left in me, just enough to teach you not to make such empty threats to my family, and as a punishment for everything else you’ve done. None of this would be happening if you had just left my pumpkin alone. I, too, will be a proud grandfather to that goblin child. He will be loved and spoiled, and you will never so much as think about touching him or Kate. Or I will do my job as a father and a grandfather, and end your life like I should have the first time.

(B)Well said, Tom. Here you go, Dad, you get the honor of first blood.

(Msr)It would be a great honor.

Sean's face contorts in terror as Barth drags him away from the wall, his eyes wide with horror. Barth hands him over to Merig Senior, sporting a wicked grin, his eyes still aglow with an otherworldly crimson gaze. Merig Senior's grip closes around Sean's throat like a vice, his fingers squeezing just enough to restrict airflow without suffocating him. He holds Sean at arm's length, scrutinizing him with a terrifying gaze that seems to bore into his very soul. With a sudden burst of violence, Merig Senior slams Sean against the steel cell bars, the impact echoing through the room. Sean's body hits the bars with a sickening thud before crumpling to the ground, his hands still bound behind his back. He grunts in agony, his body wracked with pain, as he struggles to catch his breath. Merig Senior approaches Sean, his devilish smile still plastered on his face, and hauls him up from the ground by the tattered collar of his tunic. With a vicious snarl, he slams Sean against the steel bars again, the impact resonating through the cell. Then, with a swift, merciless motion, Merig Senior draws back his fist and unleashes a brutal punch, connecting with a sickening crunch that sends blood spurting from Sean's nose. Merig Senior yanks Sean away from the bars and throws him to the ground, where he lands with a thud at the feet of Barth and Merig. The two brothers gaze down at Sean, their eyes still blazing crimson, their smiles twisted and malevolent. They take turns unleashing their fury upon him, their blows raining down with merciless precision. Thomas joins the fray, his face a mask of cruelty, as the four of them continue to beat Sean with unrelenting ferocity. The sound of fists connect with flesh echoing off the cold stone walls. Finally, satisfied with their visit, the four of them leave Sean broken and battered, as they exit the cell, heading back to the pub, their laughter lingering in the darkness. Meanwhile, in the bustling marketplace, the women gather around a cozy outdoor café, their laughter and chatter filling the air. They've settled in for a leisurely breakfast, savoring warm pastries, fresh fruit, and steaming cups of tea. As they linger over their meal, the conversation flows easily, Joanna beaming with happiness as she speaks.

(J)Is everyone enjoying themselves so far?

(O)Absolutely, thank you so much for inviting me, Jo.

(J)Of course, Orla, we’re family. I look forward to spending more time with you and Kate.

(O)We could even make trips to Taill, Merig and I went through there to come here. It’s a beautiful town.

(J)It really is, but that won’t be necessary.

(K)What do you mean, Mom?

(J)Well, the reason we are staying here for an extra week is not just because we want to spend time with Nevan. But your father and I have been thinking about speaking with Eirawen.

(K)About what? I can always arrange a day to meet up with her for tea.

(J)That would be lovely because your father and I have been talking about leaving Taill and becoming citizens of this beautiful city.

(K)[gasp] Really?

(A)You want to move here?!

(J)That’s right, Tom and I have been talking about it for weeks and we decided we don’t want to be too far away from you and our grandson. We want to watch him grow, but we can’t do that all the way from Taill.

(S)That would be wonderful, Jo, and you’ll be here with everyone else.

(J)Yes, I’m getting old and I want to spend as much time with everyone as I can. Orla and I seem to be getting along just fine since we arrived, and I look forward to spending more time with her.

(O)That sounds wonderful, Jo. Everyone was right about you and Tom. Such wonderful people who raised such a wonderful daughter-in-law and wife to my son.

(J)Oh, you’re too kind, Orla, I’ve just recently had to cut my sister from my life because she tried sabotaging Kate’s wedding, and she also threatened to come here to stop Kate from having her goblin child. She hates Fomors, and she’s been banned from the city.

(O)Oh no, what an awful woman.

(J)She is, and it was high time I told her that enough was enough. She’s my sister, but she doesn’t respect the love and acceptance I have for Merig and his family. No one is welcome who treats each other with such hate, even if they’re my blood. We have accepted Merig and Barth, and even the other goblins as family.

(O)That’s so wonderful to hear. Merig and I were so happy to travel here. We were even more happy that our son is starting a family of his own. Merig and Barth found love, and that is something that we loved hearing, and it made us proud parents.

(J)Oh, I’m sure, I was proud as well. Tom and I were always open to the possibility of Kate falling in love with someone who wasn’t even human. We were okay with that. Kate has been quite fascinated by goblins since she was a teenager.

(K)[blush] Mom! Not this again.

(A)I mean it makes sense the more we hear about it.[smirk]

(S)Kate is so in love with Merig and I guess we understand why.

(J)[giggles] Oh don’t be so embarrassed, dear, we were completely open-minded about it.

(K)[blush] Well, considering everything I went through being with Sean, it was nice to be treated with love and kindness. I didn’t care if Merig wasn’t human at the time, and I still don’t. He was so kind to me from day one of meeting him, and I was also open to finding someone who treated me the opposite of Sean, human or not.

(O)We understand, dear, we see how much you love our son.

(A)Oh, you haven’t even heard the half of it. Before they confessed, I’d hear it every day about how charming she thought he was and how much she was in love with him.

(K)[giggles] I know I aggravated her with it, but she insists that I didn’t.

(A)It was cute to listen to her. I love her to death and being there for her when Sean treated her the way he did devastated me. I was there to help her, she’s a sister to me. I couldn’t stand to see her the way she was. I’d known Merig for quite some time before she moved here. I knew how he was, and when he told me how he felt about her, Kate started telling me she was in love with him not long after she got to know him. I knew I had to push them to confess and Merig wanted to be the one to tell her, so Larry and I told him to tell her. It only took him a year, but it was better late than never. That goblin did anything and everything for her. All she had to do was ask, and he was on it. It was so cute how they interacted with each other.

(K)Even after all this time of being together, I still get butterflies and my body still tingles when he’s around. I can’t help it, and I don’t think that feeling will ever go away.

(O)I know exactly what you mean, Kate, I’m the same way with my Merig. He hasn’t changed one bit in the thirty years we’ve been together. I can only hope that your marriage lasts that long and even longer after that. I see how much you two adore each other and it just reminds me of myself and my husband. It seems my son is a reflection of his father. I guess we made the right decision to name him after Merig Senior.

(J)Like father, like son, Merig is such a sweet goblin and so is Barth. Larry is as well. They all are, honestly.

(O)Ashley, you're married to Larry, aren’t you?

(A)That’s right, it’s been three months and I still love him. He’s a hopeless romantic, flirting mess, but I’ll always love that about him.

(O)How sweet, he really is a charmer. Do you plan on having children with him?

(A)I’d hope to one day, but if it happens, then it happens. If not, he said he still loves me no matter what.

(O)Wonderful, and Sarah, I just love seeing you and Barth interact. It’s so sweet the way you both look at each other.

(S)[smiles] I really do love him, he’s so good to me and I get butterflies as well when I see him.

(O)The fact that you both made love for the first time with each other is so sweet. I bet it was special for both of you.

(S)[blush] Yes ma’am it was, I’ll never forget it, and I honestly can’t see myself with anyone else. He’s just so wonderful and I love him so much.

(O)[giggles] You’re blushing, and it’s so adorable. You really are a beautiful woman. I was baffled when Barth told me that it was your first time. I figured any man would want the chance to be with you. You're gorgeous and sweet.

(S)Thank you, you’re way too kind. I guess I was unfortunate in not having any admirers in my life. Everyone, including Barth, said it was because men were intimidated by my beauty and so were the women who said horrible things to me and about me.

(O)Beauty can be a blessing and a curse, the things those people said to you aren't true. You are a gorgeous woman and you obviously make my Barth happy.

(S)Oh, he makes me happy as well, he told me he was happy that he was the first and only person to be with me. He takes pride in it, I guess, especially when we made love for the first time in our lives. I too take a little pride in that, since he’s the one and only person I’ve given myself to. I don’t regret it for one second and I don’t care that he’s not human in the least.

(O)[smiles] It fills my heart with joy hearing that, I might shed a tear. You women have made your goblins very happy. What are your plans with Barth? Marriage, children?

(S)[blush] Uh well, we’ve been together for over six months. I honestly only see myself being with him for the rest of my life, so you could say I look forward to getting married to him and having children someday. It would mean a lot if he only wanted to be with me as well.

(K)Oh, you know that goblin loves you and only you, Sarah, you’re the only woman in this world that he sees with that look in his eyes when he gazes at you. It’s so sweet to witness. His heart only belongs to you.

(S)[smiles] He has my heart as well, so he’s the only one for me too and I was happy to give myself to him.

(O)That warms my heart. I look forward to having another daughter-in-law. You’re just a beautiful and lovely woman.

(S)You’re lovely as well, Orla, and you’re very beautiful for your age.

(O)[giggles] Oh stop it, you’re making me blush. What about you, Emerald? Do you have anyone special in your life?

(EM)Sadly, no, my experience was similar to Sarah’s. Only until now have I been able to befriend people. My entire life, I only had my sister and my father. I told you what happened to my mother.

(O)Yes, and it breaks my heart to hear that you’ve been through all of that.

(EM)Sadly, I only found love once, but that didn’t last long. Aside from that, I haven’t really found people who care for me. Kate and everyone else has been wonderful to me, but…

(O)But what, dear?

(EM)Nothing, I’m just happy to be recruited into the guards and make friends with everyone.

(K)You’re going to be there when my baby is born, right?

(EM)Only if you’ll have me there, I would love to see a new life come into this world.

(J)Yes, it will be beautiful and my grandson will be so precious. Deirdre said she would be there as well. I’m actually worried about her.

(K)I am too. It’s really unfortunate that Silvia passed at a time like this. Deirdre has a baby to think about and her and Cormac’s marriage. She wanted Silvia to be here for all of that, but it seemed fate wasn’t so kind to her.

(O)The poor thing, she has so much to deal with right now. I know it’s going to be hard for her to run that shop with her being pregnant and thinking about her wedding. She’s going to need help and I want to help her so badly.

(A)So do I. We should do something to help her, but she’s a little distant, even with Cormac, it seems.

(S)I want to help her as well, she’s a really good friend to us. It breaks my heart to see her go through that.

(EM)I want to help her as well, I know it may not mean much to her since I’m new to the group, but I’d be willing to help her after Cormac gets through to her.

(J)I am as well. What do you say, Orla? Let’s lend her a hand after Cormac talks to her and lets her know that she’s not alone.

(O)I would love to, the poor dear needs us. I'm new to the group as well, but I’m sure it would mean a lot to her even if a stranger helps her.

(J)Then let’s wait and see what happens with her and Cormac and then we’ll take action.

(K)Sounds good to me, Mom. She needs all of us, but she needs Cormac the most.

(J)Right, I wish Cormac all the luck in the world.

(O)So do I, but for now, let’s continue to have some fun. I know our husbands are having fun at the queen’s prison.

(K)Oh yeah, this is something Merig likes doing. He still has a strong hatred for Sean. I’m sure after hearing what happened to me, Merig Senior has developed the same hatred. But he not only hurt me, but he hurt my Merig and Barth. Which I’m sure would instill more anger in Merig Senior since they’re his sons.

(O)Absolutely, I’ve never met the man, but I already have the utmost hatred for him and what he did to you all. He’s a monster, he’s not human.

(J)My thoughts exactly, he’s already taken one grandchild away from me, and I’d be devastated if had taken another one along with my daughter. I just couldn’t bear the thought.

(A)I couldn’t either. The bastard shot me when he threatened Kate’s life. I still have a scar on my arm.

(K)I feel like it’s my fault that you got hurt, Ash, I’m sorry.

(A)Don’t be, I’d do it again because you’re my best friend and I love you.

(S)She’s right, I was happy to be there as well and so were the other goblins. Barth is Merig’s blood brother, but the other goblins think of him as a brother as well. Barth protected me, and he confessed his love for me while I was treating his wounds. I know it wasn’t the best time to do that, but honestly, I think it was romantic.

(O)There’s never a bad time to tell someone you love them.

(S)I thought the same. We even shared our first kiss. I was over the moon.

(O)I think that's romantic.

(K)Merig confessed his love for me under the full moon. But he first told me he loved me out in the forest after we gathered mushrooms. There was a bandit hiding, and he almost shot me with a crossbow. But Merig pushed me out of the way and we both were unharmed. We were riding back on his horse and I told him I didn't want him risking his life for me. But he said he loved me enough to do so. I told him I loved him as well, and the rest is history. Of course, this was after we confessed our love, but I think after he said those three words, it really made a big difference.

(J)Those three little words can make a big impact on anyone.

(K)Agreed...Mom, I wanted to confess something.

(J)What is it, baby?

(K)Merig and I talked last night, and I've been harboring a fear that I didn't think would resurface.

(J)Tell me, honey, what is it?

(K)...I’m afraid I'll lose Nevan. I know I shouldn't, and I know he's healthy and everything will be fine. But I still have that fear.

(J)Oh honey, I know, I had a feeling. I'm here to tell you that everything will be okay.

(A)I am too, I was there when you lost your first. I witnessed how much pain you suffered. I was there to help you and I saw it in your eyes. But I agree with your mom. I promise it'll be okay. You've seen Nessa every week for all this time.

(S)She’s right. Both Nessa and I have confirmed that there will be no complications with you or your baby. I promise you that. If there are any problems during the delivery, we'll let you know. But so far, every time you've come in for your checkup, everything has been just fine, and Nessa and I both have told you that.

(K)I know, I'm trying really hard not to stress over it, but I just can't help it. I told you all that the pain from what Sean did to me will never truly disappear. I'm happy here with Merig and everyone else, but that pain is still there, just not as bad as it was when it happened.

(O)It will be okay, Kate. I know that might not mean much to you, but I'll reassure you as well that it'll be okay. Losing a child can't be easy, especially if it was at the hands of that monster while the baby was still growing in your belly. But nothing bad has happened since you've been pregnant, right?

(K)Of course not. Merig has been a wonderful husband to me, and everyone around me has been wonderful as well. It's just the closer it gets to having this baby, the more I worry.

(J)I understand, honey, just take deep breaths and remember that Nevan is alive and well. That's evident since you said he's been so active.

The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.

(K)He’s been less active though as time draws closer.

(O)That just means he's resting until it's time. He knows it's almost time to meet his parents, and he's preparing himself. The same thing happened when I was pregnant with Merig and Barth. I promise there's nothing to worry about.

(K)[sigh] You're right, everything has been going great. I can't stress out now. It’s so close to my due date and I’m more excited than anything. I just still have my anxieties, I can’t help it.

(A)We know, sweetie, we’ll be there the whole time. We’ll make sure nothing bad happens to you.

(J)Of course, Merig and I will be holding your hand.

(K)It means a lot that you all will be there, even you, Orla.

(O)[smiles] I’ll definitely be there.

(K)Well, let’s continue our fun day. Mom, I’m taking you to that agriculture shop that opened up not too long ago.

(J)[smiles] Yes, let’s go!

As the women conclude their breakfast, they meander through the marketplace, eventually arriving at the agriculture shop, and enjoying the remainder of their women's day out. Meanwhile, at the flower shop, Deirdre tends to the blooms with a heavy heart. She waters the flowers inside, her eyes welling up with tears, before moving to the garden Silvia left behind. Amidst the vibrant petals, Deirdre's expression falters, her eyes empty, her frown a testament to her sorrow. Moments go by, and Cormac enters the shop, closing the door behind him. He begins to make his way toward the back, his footsteps quiet on the wooden floor. As he reaches the halfway point, the door opens once more, and in walks a man with short blonde hair, dressed in casual attire. Cormac turns to face him, their eyes meeting in a moment of mutual confusion. Cormac's polite tone conveys a hint of curiosity as he speaks to the stranger in this unexpected encounter.

(C)Sorry, but the shop is closed until further notice.

(DA)I'm not here to buy flowers, I'm here to see Deirdre, the owner's granddaughter.

(C)...On what grounds?

(DA)I don't think that's any of your business.

(C)Actually, it is, who are you?

(DA)And just how is it any business of yours, Fomor?

(C)Because I'm not just a Fomor. Deirdre is my fiancée, and she's pregnant with my child. That’s how it’s my business.

(DA)So it's true, she did fall in love with a goblin, how disgusting.

(C)You're one to talk about disgusting, I heard about you. You’re David, aren’t you?

(DA)As a matter of fact, I am.

(C)You left Deirdre after what happened to her in the forest.

(DA)Yeah, she used to be perfect. But she was groped by one of those bandits. She was no longer good for me.

(C)Are you serious? Do you hear yourself? She was going to be raped had the commanders of the guards not saved her. I think that would have been more concerning than her no longer being “good” in your eyes. It wouldn't have been her fault.

(DA)She was pure when she was with me and I made love to her. I wanted to be the only one to touch her body, and since a filthy Fomor spoiled that, she was no good to me. She was tainted.

(C)[scoffs] You're a piece of shit, you know that?

(DA)Well, since you're a filthy Fomor as well, and you're now with her, she's filthy, too.

(C)You better watch what you say about Deirdre. I love her and I killed her attacker, the real filthy Fomor. He almost raped her again some months ago, forcing her to strip when I showed up. I pointed my crossbow in his face and he ran away, then I shot him in the back of the head. Because no one was going to lay a finger on her. She's my beautiful sunflower, and she's anything but filthy. You're the filthy one, abandoning the woman you said you loved in her time of need when she almost died. All you thought about was how the bandit copped a feel on her breasts and thought she was no longer pure. Well, you know what? Now I get to be the one to touch her beautiful body. I don't even care if she has a scar. I will kiss it along with the rest of her body because I love her that much. After she was threatened by that bandit again, I took her home and made love to her for the first time, and I fell deeper in love with her. I never once abandoned her. She's the best thing to ever happen to me, and vice versa.

(DA)[chuckles] I had a feeling she was a whore.

(C)[glare] What did you just say?!

(DA)No wonder she was almost raped by a goblin. I'm sure she wanted it, especially if she fell in love with one.

(C)[glare]...Get the hell out of this shop, before I do something that I'll regret. You don't know me, asshole. I used to be one of those ruthless bandits. I was the leader of a hideout and I had no problem killing people. I've changed my ways because of Deirdre, and I won't break the promise I made to not hurt anyone ever again. But damn, it would feel really good to put my hands around your throat and squeeze until you stop breathing. But Deirdre wouldn't want that and that's not who I am anymore. So why don't you turn around and leave before I change my mind?

(DA)I'm not leaving unless Deirdre tells me herself.

(DD)...Leave now, David.

(DA)Deirdre, how have you been? I heard about Silvia and I just came to offer you my condolences. I even attended the funeral.

(DD)I don't need your sympathy, David, now leave.

(DA)This filthy goblin just threatened my life.

(DD)No, it wasn’t a threat, it was a promise, and I'm going to have to agree with him. I heard everything you said about me and Cormac. He is the sergeant of the Royal Guards and he has the power to remove you.

(DA)This Fomor? He has the power to remove me?

(DD)Do you forget who the commanders are? They're both goblins as well, along with the lieutenant and captain. These Fomors protect you and the city, so show some respect. You left me, David. I thought you were a good person, but it seemed I was wrong. You're the filthy one, like Cormac said. He protects me and he's made me happy. He brought light back into my dark world that was created by that attack all those years ago. Cormac saved my life and made me less miserable. He took away the pain that I suffered that you didn't give a damn about! All that mattered to you was the fact that I was fondled and almost raped, and because of my scar. You didn't love me, David. Abandoning me wasn't love when I needed it. Cormac loves me. He pulled me out of the darkness that consumed me after it happened, and I isolated myself from the world. When I first saw Cormac here in this very shop, he came into the shop for the first time. Gram was in the back and I was out here taking care of the flowers. He came up to me and spoke to me with the sweetest voice I had ever heard. I saw the scar on his face, and I knew he had a story to tell and I was evermore curious. He asked me if we had any sunflowers. I told him we didn't, and I apologized. He said it was okay. Sadly, it wasn't the season for sunflowers, since it was during the late winter months. I told him we would be getting the flowers in the spring and he was very sweet about it and he wasn't upset. He looked at me, smiled, and told me that he thought that I was very beautiful, and that's when my heart skipped a beat and I smiled back at him. I couldn't stop smiling for the rest of the day and after that, I thought about him all the time. My friend Kate came in to reserve flowers for her wedding to marry Commander Flynn of the Royal Guards. After her invitations were made, she came back to give one to Grandma Silvia. I was in the shop that day. She offered me an invitation, and I turned it away at first. We talked some more, and she tried convincing me to attend, then I told her about Cormac and our interaction and how I was very interested in finding out who he was. I didn't know his name at the time, but I knew Kate was acquainted with a lot of people, and I was very curious to know if she knew who Cormac was. She smiled at me and that’s when I knew. She told me she knew exactly who he was, she told me his name and that he was going to be one of the ring bearers at her wedding. My whole body tingled with excitement and I told Kate that I wanted to get to know him and she handed me the wedding invitation one last time, and I took it. There, I danced with Cormac, he remembered me from when he came in here. I saw him at the reception and he was injured, he told me what happened to him. I told him he needed to rest, but he neglected himself. The next day I met him at the pub where he said he would be if I wanted to see him again. I did, and I asked him out to dinner. He rejected me at first, but then I heard from Sarah that his injury got worse and he needed to stay at the healer. I came to visit him the next day and we talked and he offered to take me out to dinner and spend the day with me to make up for him rejecting me. I told him I cared more about him recovering than anything, and that's how it all started. We spent time together. He was so kind and sweet to me, and he even took me out into the forest again and ensured my safety, we saw all the beautiful flowers and the world was brighter again. I put my trust in him and I don't regret it at all. He became my light in the darkness, and do you want to know the funny part? The day that same bandit threatened to rape me, the day he and I went back out there. Do you know what we did? We harvested sunflowers, the very flower that he asked for, but we didn't have. After Cormac killed the bandit, we took the sunflowers and harvested the seeds so we could roast them and eat them. That night, Cormac and I first made love to each other, and my life was perfect and I fell in love with him even more. I took care of his wound before all of that happened and we got to know each other, just like I had hoped for. My wish came true, and I'm happier than I've ever been.

(DA)[chuckles] So you laid down with a Fomor after being threatened by one?

(DD)Not all of them are bad, David. Again, the Royal Guard commanders are goblins too. They're married to their women, and Kate is pregnant now with Commander Flynn's offspring. She's the one who came in to reserve the flowers for her wedding and gave us the invitations. She's due to give birth to her goblin child this week. And I'm pregnant with a goblin child as well. Cormac is the father, and we're going to get married. Grandma Silvia made our rings before she died and she approved of Cormac and she knew about my being pregnant. So you can go eat shit, David, because I'm going to be Mrs. Giffin and we're going to have a family together and I'll be with this goblin for the rest of my life. I won't even lose any sleep if he were to remove you from my shop. It belongs to me now, Gram gave it to me. I can't stress any more than I already have, and I need to protect my baby, SO GET OUT! I never want to see your ugly face here ever again, and Cormac will make sure of that! He'll be here by my side helping me keep this shop running and we'll live happily ever after. I really didn't think that the same goblin that made my heart skip a beat would be here by my side today, making me the happiest woman in Uladh. I would've never guessed that I would be carrying his child or that I would be getting married to him soon. It all happened within a few months, but it seems like it was just yesterday that he came into this shop to ask me if we had sunflowers. Funny how fate works, especially the way you hoped for.

(C)[smiles] I'll always remember that day when I first met you. I thought you were so beautiful and I just had to make you smile. You looked like you hadn't smiled in ages, so I did my best and I wasn't disappointed.

(DD)[smiles] I'll always remember it too, my love. You looked so handsome in my eyes, and I couldn't wait to get to know you.

(DA)Sounds like you deserve each other since you're both filthy.

(DD)No, David, you're just a piece of shit, just like Cormac said. Now leave!

(DA)You know, I was coming here to maybe give you another chance, but I guess I wasted my time.

(DD)You're right, you did waste your time, because never again will I be with someone so cold and cruel and heartless. If this is how you were to treat me in a relationship, I'd much rather be with Cormac, who treats me with love and care and would never do what you did to me. He's been here with me in my time of need since Gram died. I am so grateful for him and I don't care if he's a Fomor, he's my goblin and I love him. Mic, my love, please remove this man from our shop.

(C)As you wish, my beautiful sunflower. It's best if you just comply. As the sergeant of the Royal Guards, I'm removing you from the premises. Let's go, asshole. I'll thoroughly enjoy throwing you out on your ass.

(DA)Don't touch me, you Fomor, I'll leave and you can have your whore.

(C)That's it! She's not a whore, you're just a piece of shit, you bastard!

Cormac's face twists in rage as he swiftly closes the distance between himself and David, his hands shooting out to grab David's collar. David's eyes widen in terror as Cormac's fist draws back, then strikes him with a resounding blow, sending him crashing to the floor. David struggles to his feet, his nose bloody and swollen, before turning and making a frantic dash for the door. He bursts out of the shop, slamming the door shut behind him. Cormac's anger slowly dissipates, replaced by a soft smile as he turns to face Deirdre. She smiles back at him, a gentle, reassuring curve of her lips. Cormac's gaze lingers on Deirdre, his expression a mixture of affection and calm, as he prepares to speak.

(C)Are you okay?

(DD)I’m fine. I didn’t expect you to show up.

(C)Of course, I figured you wouldn’t mind some company.

(DD)Yeah, I didn’t expect David to show up either. It’s a good thing you were here.

(C)[chuckles] Yeah, it is, I just wanted to come and talk to you. But it seems we were thinking the same things, and you understood my intentions.

(DD)What do you mean?

(C)Well, I just wanted to let you know that I’m here, Deirdre. I see you struggling every day to smile. I miss seeing you happy and it seems every day your smile is fading more and more. I don’t know what to do and all I can say is, you’re not alone. I don’t want you to fall deeper into depression. I feel like I’m losing you.

(DD)...How do you think I feel, Cormac? I feel like I’m losing myself.

(C)And that’s what I’m here for, remember? I’m here to hold out my hand so you can grab onto it and you don’t have to sink any deeper into sadness.

(DD) I know and I’m trying my hardest to smile, and the reason I haven’t sunk deeper is because of you. All you have to do is be here with me and I’m happy.

(C)Then please, let me help you, I'm begging you. I feel like if I leave you alone for too long, you’ll fall deeper and maybe even do something to hurt yourself.

(DD)Why would you think that?

(C)Because I did the same thing not too long ago, remember? I neglected my body, and it was in danger, but you healed me and took care of me.

(DD)I’ll always remember, Mic, I promise I won’t hurt myself. I wouldn’t want that either, and I still love you no matter what. I see how badly you want to help me, but I just don’t know how you can do that. Just do what you’ve been doing.

(C)I’m just worried about you, Deirdre. I want to be here with you so that you can smile again and we can be happy. I worry about Connor, and we need to get you checkups every week with Nessa and Sarah. I want to do my job as your future husband and the father of this child. I want you to have your space, but I want to be by your side so that I can still be your light in the darkness.

(DD)Oh, Cormac, you’ve always been my light, I’m just lost. I know I’ve been quiet, but I know you have things to do in the guards.

(C)Sweetheart, that’s what Merig gave me this time off for, don’t you understand that? I’m taking the time to be with you and help you through this. I want to be here with you and make you smile so that you aren’t depressed. I have to make sure you’re okay and that you still love me after everything.

(DD)Of course, I still love you, Mic, despite everything. I was worried that you would stop loving me too, because of how devastated I am that Gram isn’t here anymore.

(C)You listen to me. I fell madly in love with you and that hasn’t changed one bit.

(DD)That hasn’t changed with me either. I just didn’t want to be a burden to you, just like I was a burden to my parents.

(C)Deirdre, I’ll be your husband, not your parents. What your parents did was abhorrent, but I’m committed and dedicated to you and I will never leave you and you will never be alone in this world ever again. I made that promise to you. I know you loved your grandma, and I loved her too, like my own grandmother. She thought of me as family. I just don’t want to lose you…I need you. I know you need me too and that’s what I’m here for. I’ll leave the guards if it means being here with you, like I said. But you are my first and only priority right now. I will be more than happy to take on this burden, as you call it because it’s anything but a burden. You’re going to be my wife, and you're carrying my offspring. I have to take care of you and be here and I will not lose any sleep over it. I will still love you the same as I did in the beginning, and that will never change. You were my light in the darkness as well, when I was struggling with my own mind, and when I was recovering, and you still are my light. Now it’s my turn to do the same for you and be your light again.

(DD)Oh Mic, I love you so much.

(C)I love you too, my beautiful sunflower.

A tearful silence descends upon the pair as Deirdre's eyes betray her emotions, turning red and brimming with fresh tears. Cormac's expression softens, his face etched with compassion, as he approaches and gently cradles Deirdre's face in his hands. He tenderly caresses her cheeks, wiping away the tears that fall like rain, and smiles softly, his eyes filled with warmth. Cormac's lips brush against Deirdre's in a gentle, comforting kiss, as they wrap their arms around each other, holding on tightly. Deirdre's sobs echo through the silence, her body shaking with grief, as Cormac sheds tears alongside her. His fingers dance through her hair, a soothing melody, as he whispers unspoken words of comfort. Time stands still as they cling to each other, their hearts entwined in a shared moment of sorrow. Eventually, they pull back, their faces inches apart, as Cormac continues to dry Deirdre's tears. She gazes up at him, noticing the tears glistening in his eyes, and gently wipes them away, her touch a balm to his soul. As they share a tender moment, Deirdre's voice barely above a whisper, speaks words of comfort, their hearts still entwined in a shared embrace.

(DD)You’re crying too. I’m so sorry, my love.

(C)[sniffle] Don’t be, that’s just how much I love you. I can’t help it. You mean the world to me, Deirdre, and I can’t sit back and do nothing to help you. It’s my job to make you smile and I feel as if I’ve failed as a husband already, and we’re not even married yet.

(DD)No, my love, I’ve failed as a wife already as well as a mother. I was prideful, and I didn’t think I needed help and didn’t want to burden anyone. But I need you, and I’m no longer afraid to admit it.

(C)You should’ve known better than to ever be afraid to tell me anything.

(DD)[sniffle] You’re right, 'cause when you’re with me, I’m never afraid. I’m sorry, my love, I just lost my way again, and it was dark like it used to be. I never thought I would see that darkness ever again. Please help me, light my way again like you always do.

(C)You don’t even have to ask me or beg, I’m here without question, Deirdre. Lay all of your burdens on me and don’t even think twice, and don’t even think about apologizing because I’ll be happy to carry the weight. You carried my weight when you took care of me. Let me carry yours. I’ll carry it for miles, I don’t care.

(DD)Okay, my love, carry me in your arms.

(C)Of course, I will. Why don’t I carry you home? We can spend a day or so together, just you and me.

(DD)[smiles] I would love that. Just let me finish taking care of the shop, okay?

(C)No, you won’t do it alone, I won’t let you. We’ll take care of it together. Anything we do, we do together, okay?

(DD)Yes, my love, thank you for pulling me out of the darkness again.

(C)That’s what I’m here for. Don’t you ever forget that.

(DD)Of course not, let’s get some things done and we’ll go home.

(C)Alright, I love you.

(DD)I love you too.

Cormac and Deirdre share another tender kiss, their lips barely touching, before embracing each other once more. With their hearts still entwined, they work together in harmony, finishing up the tasks at the shop. As the morning wears on, they make their way to the healer's quarters, hand in hand, for Deirdre's first checkup. Meanwhile, at the pub, Gordo and Larry sit at their usual table, the atmosphere thick with silence. Gordo's mind is a thousand miles away, lost in thought, as Larry gazes over at him, noticing the distant look in his eyes. Larry decides to break the silence, his voice cutting through the stillness.

(L)So, have you talked to Emerald lately?

(G)Uh yeah, we talked a little after some training yesterday.

(L)How did that go?

(G)It went great, we had a lot of fun, and the new padded gear is working great. Not one bruise on us when we got done. Although…

(L)What’s wrong? Is everything okay?

(G)Yeah, it’s just, before we even got started, I hesitated. We were both geared up and ready to go, but I just couldn’t. All I thought about was accidentally injuring her again, and I panicked.

(L)You chickened out, didn’t you?

(G)Yeah, I couldn’t help it, but she talked sense into me and we ended up sparring like we wanted to.

(L)And you had fun doing it, that’s all that matters. Neither of you got hurt.

(G)Yeah, but part of me is scared that I’ll hurt her again.

(L)Listen, pal, you’ve got to not be so afraid.

(G)[sigh] I know, it’s just, she’s so small and I’m…not. I could really hurt her if I’m not careful.

(L)That’s what I worried about when I sparred with Ash during her early training days. Guess what?

(G)What?

(L)She hardly got hurt at all, even when I was coming at her with my training swords. There was one accident, and I rushed her to the healer. Did I feel bad? Of course, but I didn’t let that stop me from training her and being her mentor. Accidents happen, Gordo, just apologize and move on, don’t beat yourself up. I learned that from that accident and I had to forgive myself because Ash did and she was more than willing to continue training with me.

(G)Emerald still wants to train with me, too. I guess I have to just move on from the accident.

(L)Exactly, it’s in the past and Emerald clearly isn’t upset with you or holding it against you, is she?

(G)No, she even said it’s in the past too, and she’s healed, so she’s ready to train again.

(L)There you go, no harm done, at least not intentionally.[smirk]

(G)[scowl]...I hate you.

(L)[chuckles] I’m kidding, calm down, don’t get so worked up over an accident, and grow some balls and a shiny new spine.

(G)[sigh] Alright, I’ll keep training Emerald, she’s having a lot of fun, and honestly, so am I.

(L)And hey, it’ll bring you two closer together. Maybe you can ask her out on a date.

(G)We’ve already talked about this, Larry. I haven’t known Emerald for long. We’ve shared our past, but that doesn’t mean we know everything about each other. I’d like to get to know her some more. I want to keep training her and sparring with her. I want her to trust that I will keep training her. She was really worried that I was giving up on her because I was too scared to spar with her. I want her to know that I’m not giving up on her at all and I’ll enjoy training her and being her mentor. You’re right, I need to not be afraid of accidents and keep helping her become a guard.

(L)That’s the spirit, pal. The least you can do is treat her to lunch each day.

(G)Yeah I could, I told her each day I’d add more strength to my punches little by little. She wants to not only train her punches but to train her strength. She’s actually really good at punching. She just lacks some strength, at least from my perspective. She is a woman, after all, and I’m a strong male. But she doesn’t mind, she still wants to do that, and she doesn’t care if she’s a woman. She said she doesn’t expect special treatment.

(L)There you go, keep at it, you’re doing great as a mentor, Gordo. You never know, she might be the one to fall in love with you.[smirk]

(G)[eye roll] I doubt it, but we’ll see what happens in the future. For now, I’m just focused on helping her. She really is a sweet person, but she worries about people getting tired of her, especially everyone in the group.

(L)She’s doing just fine hanging out with the other women.

(G)Yeah, but she doesn’t expect that to last long. She’s really worried about losing us as friends.

(L)Kate really likes her and so do the rest of the women. I think she's a badass, too.

(G)I know, but we all heard about her past. It’s kind of sad, actually.

(L)Yeah, it is, but hey, she’s with us and she’s a part of the friend circle.

(G)I told her that and I even told her she was already a part of the family. Kate even wants her to be there when Nevan is born, even though she’ll be hanging out with us on the other side of the partition.

(L)Yeah, but we’ll all be on the other side, us males plus Emerald. She seems to be warming up to everyone and the more time you spend with her, the more she might open up to you and the closer you two will be.

(G)Yeah, you’re right, I do like her. She’s a great sparring partner. I’ll admit, she is a beautiful woman. She has beautiful, green eyes.

(L)Be careful, the more you talk about her, the more you might fall in love with her. That was the first thing Merig talked about when he fell in love with Kate. He said she had the most beautiful brown eyes and her reddish brown hair with beautiful curls. That’s all I ever heard about, so if you’re already talking about her appearance, you might start to grow feelings for her at the very least.

(G)[sigh] I’m just complimenting her, and talking about her in a positive way. What’s the harm in that?

(L)Alright, I dare you to say all of that to her face the next time you two spar. Tell her how beautiful you think her eyes are.

(G)...

(L)[smirk] That’s what I thought. If you wouldn’t say it to her face, then you’re starting to grow feelings for her.

(G)[sigh] Listen, I’m just her mentor. You’re reading too much into it, Larry.

(L)Alright, but don’t say I didn’t warn you. You’ll be coming to me soon telling me you’re madly in love with her and I’ll be saying “I told you so”.

(G)[scoffs] Whatever, I’m hungry and Merig and the others should be getting back here soon from visiting Sean. It’s almost lunchtime.

(L)I’m getting hungry too, the women are spending the entire day together, so I won’t see Ash until dinner time. We can hang out with just us males here.

(G)I wonder if Cormac and Deirdre have talked yet.

(L)Well, Cormac isn’t back here, so I’m assuming he succeeded in talking to her. He said he wanted to take her home and spend a day or two with her. I’m assuming that’s what happened if he hasn’t shown up yet.

(G)I hope so. I have a good feeling that everything went well too. I’m sure we’ll hear about it when we see them next. They both deserve a day or two to themselves.

(L)Yeah, I’m sure everything is just fine. They have a wedding to plan and a baby on the way to worry about. Those two are very much in love and I'm sure they'll work things out. They would go to the ends of the earth for each other.

(G)Yeah, Cormac loves her and he's happy. I'm just glad that Victoria women can't bother them anymore.

(L)Yeah, they don't need that in their life together. We already dealt with Rachel trying to be a homewrecker. We don't need to deal with another one.

(G)Definitely not, but that doesn't matter anymore. Deirdre and Cormac deserve the best in life, especially after everything.

(L)Agreed, it's time they relaxed together. For now, let's sit and wait for the guys.

(G)Sounds good.

The pub door swings open, emitting a warm ray of sunlight as Cormac and Deirdre enter, their faces beaming with joy. They make their way through the bustling pub, their footsteps light, their smiles infectious. As they approach the group table, their eyes shine with happiness, their hands clasped together. Cormac and Deirdre reach the table, where Larry and Gordo continue to sit in quiet conversation as Cormac's face lights up with a warm greeting. Larry and Gordo turn their attention to the pair, their expressions transforming into welcoming as they take in the radiant smiles of Cormac and Deirdre.

(C)Good afternoon, you two.

(L)Hey, pal, we were just talking about you. Is everything okay? You both look happy.

(C)Everything is great. I just thought I'd stop by and let you know that Deirdre and I will be spending the next day or two at home. So if you all don't see us, no need to worry and you can let Merig know, too.

(G)That's great, did something happen?

(C)You'll never believe this, Deirdre’s ex showed up at the shop.

(L)Whoa what?

(DD)David, my former significant other. As you all know, he left me after I was attacked by those bandits. He said because of my scar and the fact that I was groped by Thornton, I was no longer good to him, or “pure” as he put it. He even called me a whore for making love with Cormac and falling in love with him. His words meant nothing to me.

(C)Yeah, but I wasn't going to let him talk to her like that. I decked him right in his smug face.

(L)[laughs] Really? Oh, I would've loved to see that.

(G)Me too, I would've done the same.

(L)Me too, I almost did when Ryan called Ash a whore. I didn't want to do it in front of everyone here.

(C)Well, luckily it was just the three of us in the shop. He ran with his tail between his legs.

(DD)It was honestly funny to witness. I didn't care. I would've let Cormac tear him apart. He had the nerve to tell me he was thinking about giving me another chance. Even though he said he had heard that I fell in love with Cormac, I told him I'd never be with him again. He gave me his condolences for losing my grandma. I told him I didn't need this sympathy, he wasn't welcome in my shop, so Cormac removed him for me.

(C)I only met him once, and I hated him from the start. He hates Fomors too.

(G)Of course he does, it was obvious considering he said Deirdre wasn't good for him since she was violated by Thornton.

(L)Yeah screw him, I'm glad he ran like a little bitch. He's not a man at all, he's a coward.

(C)Agreed, but we just came here to let you know so you all didn't worry.

(L)I’ll definitely let Merig know, you two go home and take some time for yourselves, you need it. We're glad you two worked things out. Go enjoy your time together.

(C)I’m taking Deirdre to get a checkup with Nessa. We want to make sure Connor is okay.

(G)Of course, we hope everything is alright.

(C)Me too. I also wanted to thank you all for helping me.

(L)That’s what we're here for, pal. We love and care for you both. Now get out of here. You've got more important things to take care of. Don't worry about us here. That's an order.[smiles]

(C)Aye, we'll see you all in a couple of days.

(G)See you later, Cormac.

The four share warm smiles, their faces aglow with happiness, before Cormac and Deirdre bid them farewell, their hands still clasped together as they exit the pub. With smiles still plastered on their faces, they make their way to the healer's quarters, eager to ensure the baby's well-being. Meanwhile, Merig, Barth, Merig Senior, and Thomas have departed the castle, and seek the warmth and camaraderie of the pub. They enter, their footsteps echoing off the wooden floor, and make their way to the usual table, where Larry and Gordo await. As they approach, their faces break into smiles, and they exchange warm greetings, their voices filling the air with cheerfulness. The group of males settle into their seats and engage in conversation until the women return.

(L)Hey, did you have fun at the prison?

(M)Yep, my dad got to rough Sean up first, since it was his first time meeting him.

(L)Oh, I’m sure you enjoyed that, Mr. Flynn.

(Msr)Indeed I did, Larry, the boys and I made him piss himself with our red eyes.

(B)He talked shit about Sarah and I wasn’t having any of it.

(M)He talked about Kate and Nevan, he even threatened them along with the rest of us. Big mistake on his part. He wasn’t getting away with it.

(L)I wouldn’t let him either, he’s got a lot of nerve. The bastard has no business making a threat like that, considering where he is right now. I’m sure you all had fun teaching him a lesson.

(G)Yeah, he’s either really dumb or he just thinks he's a badass and thinks he’s getting out of there someday.

(M)He can keep dreaming, Eirawen is making sure he never leaves. But yes, we had fun giving him his weekly dose of pain.

(T)I rather enjoyed it. I may be old, but I’ve still got some fight in me. I gave him a black eye, but we tried not to do too much damage.

(B)I think he got knocked out cold at one point, but I enjoyed it too.

(M)Did anything interesting happen while we were gone?

(L)Actually, yeah, Cormac and Deirdre came by to let us know that they will be spending a day or two at home.

(M)Oh? I take it that things worked out between those two.

(L)It seems so, Deirdre said her ex showed up at the flower shop to give his condolences to her for Silvia’s death. She said she didn’t want any of his sympathy and wanted him out of the shop. The asshole called Deirdre a whore for falling in love with a Fomor and carrying his child. Apparently, Cormac punched him in the face for it and the asshole ran.

(M)Wow, first Cormac’s former lover, now Deirdre’s. What a coincidence.

(G)We thought so too, but apparently, they talked about everything and they wanted to spend some time together. They both looked really happy, so it’s safe to say things worked out.

(Msr)Good, I’m glad, I was worried about them. I know I’ve only known everyone for a short time, but I feel as if you are all family already.

(L)We think of you the same way, Mr. Flynn. We all expressed our concern for them, so we understand.

(T)I’m glad they’re both happy again. It’s as Orla said. Love conquers all.

(Msr)She’s a smart woman, isn’t she?

(M)That’s Mom for you.

(B)We love her. She’s a wise woman. Did anything else interesting happen?

(L)Gordo is falling in love.

(G)[glare] That’s not true! Don’t listen to him. That’s the last time I talk about personal shit to you, Larry.

(M)[sigh] I don’t know what I’m going to do with you guys.

(G)All I did was tell him that our training was going well and that Emerald and I were really getting along. But of course, Larry seems to think we’ll fall in love.

(L)He said she has beautiful eyes and hair, I just challenged him to compliment her to her face. But I have a feeling he’d be too chicken.

(G)Listen, asshole, I’m just her mentor. It’s not against the law to have a positive opinion about her. You clearly forgot I also said she’s a great sparring partner. But you have selective hearing as usual.

(L)I’m just saying, it’s bound to happen. You’ll be talking about her all the time and next thing you know, you’ll be coming to us completely love-struck.

(G)[sigh] I just want to make her feel welcome here, considering what she’s been through. I do feel sympathy for her. It’s not a crime. I’ll be spending a lot of time with her training, and besides, I said I’m in no rush to fall in love. I want us to focus on her training, and she’s doing great so far.

(M)Yeah, you told me the gear I had made is working great for you. She’ll be trained in no time. She even said she was having a lot of fun. But Larry is right, something could happen between you both.

(G)[sigh] Not you too, even she is focused on training, but she also sees me as a friend and a part of our family and that’s all I want for her. I want her to feel loved and cared about, and that’s what we’re about.

(B)That’s true, she’s a sweet woman and I do feel sorry for her. She’s part of our group and she should feel welcome. But anything is possible, Gordo.

(G)...You’re not helping either, Barth. I’m in no rush to fall in love, but you all seem to want to push me in that direction.

(M)Hey, we know you have self-esteem problems and we just want you to know that you’re worthy of love, just like Cormac.

(L)Yeah, we know you think you don’t deserve it because of your past, but just like Cormac, you’ve bettered yourself and it’s time you found happiness.

(B)We know you’re not in any rush to fall in love, but it’s okay to admit it if you are in love. Like I said, anything is possible. Keep training Emerald and have all the fun in the world, but don’t be afraid to find happiness.

(G)[smiles] Thanks guys, I really don’t think I deserve it, but I guess I have to learn how to accept and love myself again. I’ve forgiven myself for the most part, but I guess spending time with Emerald will do me some good. I’ll have someone to talk to on a personal level since she’s already told me quite a bit about herself. I’m not expecting anything to happen, but like Barth said, anything is possible.

(L)I’m just yanking your chain like always, pal, don’t take it personally. We love you and we just want the best for you.

(G)I know, I appreciate it. I just want Emerald to feel comfortable and not be so scared that I’ll just give up on her. She thought that when I hesitated to spar with her when we put on the safety gear.

(M)You were afraid you would accidentally hurt her again.

(G)Yeah, she got worried that I didn’t want to train her anymore. I didn’t want her thinking that and she talked sense into me. I realized I couldn’t be afraid either, so we started sparring and, thankfully, everything went smoothly. No accidents.

(M)See? Nothing to worry about, just keep having fun and don’t give up on her or be afraid.

(G)You’re right, I hope she’s having fun with the other women.

(B)I’m sure she is. I can’t wait to see my woman.

(M)Yeah, I’m sure Kate’s feet hurt right about now. She needs to relax after today.

(Msr)I’m sure your mother is having fun. She seems to be getting along with Joanna.

(T)They’ll be friends in no time. Oh Merig, I wanted to tell you something. I’m sure Jo is talking to Kate about it. But I figured I’d mention it to you as well.

(M)Is everything okay?

(T)Fantastic, Jo and I have been talking about relocating.

(M)Really?

(T)Yes, Jo and I talked and we want to watch our grandson grow up and be a part of his life. Jo and I have decided that we want to be here in Tara.

(L)[smiles] Hell yeah! We’d love to have you both here, Tom.

(B)Absolutely, you’re our family and we’d love it if you were living here.

(M)Yeah, that would be great. I’m sure Kate would love that.

(G)That’s exciting. When do you want to establish here?

(T)Well, after Nevan is born, we want to purchase a home. So I figured we would look for one suitable for Jo and me.

(M)I’d be happy to help you look for a wonderful home and we can even help you move.

(B)Absolutely, we’d be happy to help get you and Jo moved here and settled in.

(Msr)I’m actually quite excited myself. I’ll have another old geezer to talk to.

(T)[chuckles] That would be great. I’m taking a liking to you myself, Merig. We grandfathers have to stick together and I’m sure we’ll be great friends.

(Msr)That’s right, Tom, we’re family and we’ll both get to watch Nevan grow up and spoil him with love. You’ve raised a lovely daughter who’s a wonderful wife to my son, and she’s going to be a wonderful mother to our grandson.

(T)You’ve raised exceptional sons yourself, and Merig has made my pumpkin very happy as her wonderful husband and soon-to-be father of her child.

(Msr)Agreed, I’m so thankful to know that you and Jo are very accepting of us despite the fact that we’re Fomors. Kate as well, and she loves Merig very much.

(T)Yes, she does, and he’s perfect for her. They’re perfect for each other.

(Msr)I couldn’t agree more, Tom, and maybe someday I can join my sons in the Royal Guards.

(M)That’s something to think about, Dad. You’re a master archer like me, so you’d only need a little training.

(Msr)I’ll do what it takes, son. I want to fight alongside you and your brother.

(B)It’ll be good for you, Dad, but take it easy for now. You and Mom just got here. Enjoy it while you can.

(Msr)Of course, your mother and I love it here and life is perfect for us.

(M)It’s perfect for the rest of us, Dad. We're glad you and Mom are here and soon Jo and Tom will be living here.

(G)We’ll all live happily ever after in this beautiful city.

(L)That’s right, and it’s almost lunchtime. Should we wait for the women?

(M)Nah, I’m sure they’ll be eating lunch while they’re out. We can grab something here.

(B)Sounds good to me.

(T)I’m a bit famished myself.

(Msr)I think we’ve worked up an appetite after visiting that piece of human garbage.

(L)Alright, let’s eat.

As the afternoon wears on, the group indulges in a hearty lunch at the pub, savoring the warmth and fellowship that fills the air. Later, the women join them, and the group spends a leisurely afternoon lost in conversation, their laughter and stories intertwining like the threads of a rich tapestry. As the evening draws to a close, they bid each other farewell, and the couples make their way home, arm in arm. That night, in Cormac and Deirdre's cozy home, their naked bodies intertwine under the soft, warm blanket as they relax in the afterglow of their love-making. They lie together, sharing passionate kisses and tender caresses, lost in each other's embrace. Slowly, they pull away and lock eyes, their faces glowing with contentment and affection. Deirdre's voice breaks the silence, her words filled with adoration and tenderness.

(DD)Once again, you’ve taken my pain away and I can’t help but be happy here in your arms.

(C)Neither can I. I couldn’t stand seeing you in pain, so I had to do something about it. I’m sorry if I upset you at all earlier at the shop.

(DD)No Mic, you didn’t, you did the complete opposite. I didn’t expect David to show up at the shop today or at all. I didn’t even know he was at Gram’s funeral.

(C)It’s ironic how he showed up, but not too long ago, Victoria showed up at the training grounds.

(DD)Yeah, and she tried to take you away from me. David had the same intentions, but just like Victoria, couldn’t take you away from me. David couldn’t take me away from you. He hurt me and betrayed my love as well and I lost all love for him and I no longer want anything to do with him. You have me, my heart, my body, my hand in marriage, and our child that we created together that you and Nessa said is very healthy.

(C)Yeah, I heard his heartbeat just like Merig said I would.

(DD)I heard it too. He’s going to be okay because of you. I’m the one that should be sorry, my love. I put myself and Connor at risk, and I feel like a terrible mother.

(C)No, Deirdre, you’re grieving and I understand. I just didn’t want you to lose yourself and I didn’t want to lose you either.

(DD)You were never going to lose me, Mic. If anything, I was afraid that I was going to lose you. I didn’t ask for help when I needed it. I didn’t want to bother you with my problems.

(C)Sweetheart, your problems are my problems and I don’t mind carrying some of the weight for you if not all of it so that you aren’t suffering.

(DD)I don’t want to put that all on you. I don’t want to bring you down with me.

(C)As long as I’m with you, I don’t care and it’s not going to bother me. I love you so much that I would carry the weight of the entire world if I had to. I’m here with you no matter what, and you can bring me down with you as long as I’m there holding you and bringing you back up from the darkness because that’s what I promised to do. I don’t intend to break that promise.

(DD)I would do the same for you, my love, but I should’ve come to you and not isolated myself as I did for all those years until I met you.

(C)None of that matters. You’re here now and I can help you and you won’t be alone.

(DD)I never wanted to be alone and I’m glad you came to the shop and got rid of David for me.

(C)[smiles] I can’t believe you remember our first encounter at the shop.

(DD)[smiles] I can’t believe you remember it either. It was before Kate and Merig’s wedding.

(C)I remember it was before I was badly injured and almost died. It was even before I came to Kate and asked her for forgiveness. Oddly enough, I came in wanting to know if you had sunflowers because I wanted to roast the seeds myself. Then I met you at the reception of the wedding, and the next day, everything happened, and now here we are over six months later.

(DD)I know, and I will always remember every second of it. These past months have been the best days of my life with you. I wouldn’t have wanted to have it any other way. The moment you made my heart skip, is the moment you stole it with your words and your smile.

(C)I’ll always remember that smile when we first met. You’re still as beautiful as you were then, and your smile made me smile as well. Every time I see you smile, I’ll always think of that moment and I was secretly hoping I’d see you again. And just like you, I got my wish, and we danced together. But again, I battled with myself and I didn’t think I deserved love or happiness. You showed me that I did and I will be forever grateful and I’ll do anything for you. I’ll take away your pain like you did mine.

(DD)You took away all of my pain the first time we made love, and you took some away even before that when I fell in love with you and we spent all that time together before we confessed our love, so we were already even.

(C)I don’t care, I’ll always take your pain away. I don’t care if I don’t benefit from it, because all I want is to see you happy, and that’s my benefit.

(DD)I like to see you happy too, Cormac, and I’m glad my being happy makes you happy. But I want us both to be happy. That was our goal, in the beginning, was to find happiness and love. We found happiness, we just didn't know that we had found love in each other yet.

(C)I definitely found love and happiness with you, Deirdre. You are my happiness, remember?

(DD)Yes, my love, how can I forget? You are my love, light, and happiness.

(C)You’re all of those to me as well, and soon you'll be my wife and a mother.

(DD)And you'll be my husband and a father. We’ll be a beautiful and happy family.

(C)Absolutely we will, and my life will be perfect.

(DD)Our life will be perfect.

(C)You’re right, just please don’t be afraid to come to me if you need anything, promise me.

(DD)I promise, my love, you do the same.

(C)I did when we first confessed our love and you didn’t walk away. You listened, and we had our first kiss together.

(DD)Of course, I’d never walk away from you when you need me. And it seems you wouldn’t walk away from me either. I’m embarrassed about breaking down earlier. I never wanted you to see me like that.

(C)Don’t be embarrassed, I felt your pain, and in that moment I felt connected to you. I saw the pain in your eyes and I had to do something. Don’t even feel ashamed to show me your true feelings and don’t be afraid to be vulnerable in my presence. I’m here so you can be vulnerable, and show me as well as tell me how you feel. I’m not just here to show you love but to be your light and hold you when you need it.

(DD)I understand now, I’m sorry I didn’t before. I hope you still love me after seeing me like that.

(C)Of course, I still love you. I hope you still love me after seeing me shed tears, too.

(DD)Of course, I do. It hasn’t changed how much I love you in the slightest. If you’re here for me when I’m vulnerable, then I’m here for you when you’re vulnerable. That’s what I’m here for, remember?

(C)Of course, and I look forward to spending the next couple of days with you. We can stay home or we can go out together.

(DD)I think I’d like to stay here at home with you and we can talk about our future with the shop, our wedding, and our child.

(C)I think that’s the perfect plan. I know your grandma is gone, and I know she meant a lot to you. I’m so sorry, Deirdre, I’m still here and I’m not going anywhere like I promised.

(DD)I believe you, Mic, I never forgot about you being here. I’m going to miss Gram a lot, but I know I have you and everyone else here with me and they’re all like family to me. No one can replace her, but I can surround myself with the people who still mean a lot to me, and you’re one of those people. The love and light of my life, and my happiness.

(C)As you are mine, my beautiful sunflower. Now these next couple of days are about you. What would you like to do, my love?

(DD)Honestly, I just want to be here in your arms. We can be naked under these blankets. You can keep me warm and we can make love. That’s what I want.

(C)If that’s what you want, then I’ll make it happen. I’m all yours and I won’t go anywhere.

(DD)Neither will I, I just feel so happy being here, just you and me. The flowers can wait at the shop, I’ve watered them enough. You and I can open the shop up after Kate’s baby is born, and in the process, we can plan our wedding and go to the healer for weekly checkups.

(C)I can still hear Connor’s heartbeat. He’s alive and healthy. I’m excited to plan our wedding and to open the shop. I’m also considering what I said about leaving the guards, but I know Merig needs me.

(DD)Maybe it doesn’t have to be an everyday thing, only when Merig needs you. Or you can just take the time off he offered you and we can take care of everything starting now.

(C)That’s a great idea. I’ll talk to Merig when I see him next. I’m sure he’ll be understanding, but for now, I want to spend my time with you.

(DD)I think that’s the perfect plan. I love you, Mic.

(C)I love you too, my beautiful sunflower.

With a shared smile, Cormac pulls Deirdre closer, their lips never parting as they continue their passionate kiss. He gently rolls her onto her back and positions himself on top of her, his weight supported by his arms as he hovers over her. His hands explore every inch of her skin, caressing and teasing as he lowers himself and showers her lips with more tender kisses. Sitting up on his knees, Cormac gazes down at Deirdre's flushed face and body, filled with love and desire. Cormac guides his body between her legs, worshiping her with his strong hands as he gently grasps her hips. Sparks of pleasure ignite as Cormac slowly begins to make love to Deirdre once again. With every touch and movement, the two lose themselves in the moment together, savoring each other's company in this private paradise. As they continue, time seems to stand still for the two lovers, lost in their own world of bliss and intimacy. Afterward, the two hold each other under the warm blanket, gazing into each other's souls. Eventually, With heavy eyelids, they succumb to sleep and drift off to dreamland together.