Murough knew he was being unreasonably angry. And now here they were trying to hide it. Though perhaps they aren't hiding anything, a voice in his head said, maybe they really were getting herbs and the holding hands was just that Nerina was pulling Ionn along...
Murough shook his head. It could all have been nothing. Plus it was late and they were all tired. Still, he would keep a closer eye on these two from now on. He wasn't sure that he minded really...he just...wanted to be involved somehow...
"Herbs...right..." he muttered, shooting Ionn a suspicious glare. Well, he would take their words at face value now...Then he sighed and felt a little bit of shame at making his friend apologize, "No need, Ionn.' he said normally, waving away the apology, "Just next time, Neri." he said, fixing her with a stern look, "You must let me know where you are. Especially at night and especially now! You know trolls don't usually come out so far yet there they were today!" he shook his head at his sister in exasperation. He glanced at Ionn, his gray eyes still slightly mistrustful, "Thank Ionn for taking care of her. But I really do think it's time I took you home." he said, the last part aimed at Nerina.
He took her forearm none too gently and began to move away, "Farewell Ionn." he called back to his friend, his voice still slightly standoffish, "I told your guests to make themselves at home. I'll be over in the morning to help you take them to the elders." and waving he dragged his sister back home.
Nerina sighed a little in relief as she saw her brother's face change. Though it was not complete trust, she knew he wouldn't ask any more questions. She chanced a look at Ionn, and had to use every ounce of self control not to smother that face in more kisses. But Murough was here now, and his disapproving prescence did much to calm her hot blood.
As Murough lectured her she merely nodded meekly. And as her brother dragged her away she turned to smile lovingly at Ionn, "Goodnight Ionn!" she called, her pretty voice conveying all she couldn't say with words. And allowing her brother to escort her back home she smiled a secret smile in the dark. She had Ionn's love! And she felt nothing bad could ever happen again, now they had found each other...
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