- What did I do?" I said in a whisper and got down on my knees.
Standing up, I walked away from the bed and put my pants on. Annabel stared at me with a frown.
- What's going on? - she asked in a confusing way.
- Oh, shit! You really are a witch! - I squealed by punching the dresser behind me. - I'm a man of war. I wasn't born to take responsibility for a marriage or raise a family. That should never have happened!
The moment I said those words, I was bitterly sorry when I noticed the shock in Annabel's eyes. She held her breath, swallowing her tears and pulled the quilt over her naked body.
- Annabel, I...
- If I'm a witch, you're a devil! - she said coolly. - Please, get out!
Fear took hold of me when I realized that I had blamed Annabel for a deliberately mutual act. I knew I could never make up for my mistake or get her forgiveness for my actions. The pain and sorrow in her eyes made that very clear. Still, I tried.
- Annabel, forgive me for my breakup! - he said approaching me. - My words were cruel and...
- I told you to leave! - she said coldly. - Go away and leave me alone!
The cold, painful voice went through my heart. My shoulders fell, when I realized, that because of an idiotic impulse, I had lost, perhaps, the only woman who made me want more. Taking a deep breath, I tried to get close, but it was already late.
- Get out! - she screamed. - Now!
Not knowing what to do, I grabbed my shirt and boots coming out of the room right away. I leaned back on the door after knocking it and closed my eyes. I held a grunt when I heard Annabel's sobs, who had begun to cry. With my chest taken by anger and remorse, I put on my shirt and headed for the inn. I decided to drink to try to forget. Maybe I could talk to her the next morning.
Chapter 11
Annabel
Taking a deep breath to contain my tears, I embraced Abigail in a farewell gesture. It seemed like we'd never see each other again. In fact, I could see her whenever I wanted, since Dunhill was a few hours away from that village.
- Where's my horse? - I asked as soon as I left the inn.
Bruce was preparing the animals, and besides his horse, there were only the guard horses, which were not few. He had put on his black clothes again and that included a hooded cape. I had to twist my arm when I agreed with myself that Bruce looked much better dressed in those black robes. The color matched his thick hair that had the same tone. The way they were messed up, they gave him a wild appearance.
The memories of the night before brought warmth to my whole body. I decided to ignore them by breathing deeply. I still felt like a fool to give myself to Bruce. I did not imagine that my first night with a man could be so magical and perfect, until Bruce accused me of having seduced him. It was as if he had possessed me against my will. After he left the room, I collapsed in tears and cried all night long. When it dawned, I decided I wouldn't give him the taste of knowing how hurt and hurt I was. Hating him again was a much better and less painful path. Indifference would kill him, but it would certainly make him regret what he did to me.
- We came together, so we'll come back together!
Bruce's authoritative voice had returned. That arrogant and determined tone caused me more anger. He knew how to provoke me and piss me off.
- I'd rather die than have to share the saddle with you! - he said between his teeth.
Returning to the inn, I sat on the step and folded my arms.
- Annabel, please, I know you're angry with me, but we don't have much time - he said by running his hands over his face. - Not many horses are available. Could you come over here and ride the horse so we can leave?
- Then I'll go with one of the knights! - I fired.
They all looked at Bruce, who snitched.
- You're coming with me! - he emphasized.
I didn't move and I ignored him. He snorted and took a dagger stuck to his waist, with his sword and a beast, and walked towards me, in wide and decisive steps. That attitude didn't frighten me, but I was worried when he bent over in front of me.
- Listen, I'm trying to be a good knight, but my patience is running out! - he whispered in a deep, deep
