It was nearing October’s end by the time I reached my villa and I sensed an early winter on its way. And when I rode up to the door, everything seemed quiet and stilled. I was not expected, I knew, but where was everyone? I banged hard on the door, and Cleary came and opened it.

He said, “My lord, we were not expecting you till spring! Lady Clodia is not here.”

“Where is she?” I did not like this news. “Where is Manos and Siona?”

Cleary helped me inside, saying, “They are here, but Lady Clodia is staying with Lord Lucan and his wife for company.”

“Send someone to bring her home,” I told him. “I am home now.”

“Yes, my lord,” and he went off to do my bidding.

I went to my room and threw off my cloak and fell down on my bed, so exhausted by my travel that I let myself fall asleep...

Woke sometime later to soft hands on my face, brushing back my hair. I did not know where I was, till I saw Clodia over me, kissing me softly.

“My love,” she sighed. “Do not get up, stay here and I will bring you some supper, so tired, my love,” she kissed me again, and I threw my arm around her and pulled her down on top of me. I held her hard, and breathed the sweet scent of her hair. I held her and held her, as I felt so guilty and wrong, I could have cried. I did love her. I was so wrong to her; what harm had she ever done to me?

“Clodia…”

“Why did you come home so soon?” she kissed me as she spoke.

“All was quiet in the south. So I came home. Where is Amren?”