The Mare and The Wolves [Wuffie\Talin]

[Wuffie]

From the steps of the large farm house, off into the distance over the dusty, dry expanse of the farmland surrounding, One could almost make out the tiny image of a carriage, the cloud of dust heavy behind it in the early afternoon sun. There was barely a breath of wind today in the deep southern state, and everything seemed coated in a think layer of unholy, sticky humidity, that none could escape. Many of the horses were still, as were most of the people who inhabited this dry land, just trying helplessly to absorb as little warmth as possible.
Despite this attack of light from above, some were unable to keep themselves inside and hide from the heat. Within a single of the farms many oval training rings skipped about a strong, agile black stallion, large, much larger than many of the horses they were breeding, something that could easily earn them a hefty paycheck - should he succumb to training quickly. This was not an easy task, some more stubborn horses could take months, and this one was proving to be the most troublesome yet. They only had a few weeks to break this one in, a month at the most, But that carriage, with its dusty trail, was making its way toward them with fervor, with plans for many purchases should this particular stallion work out.
And so the three males stood surrounding the horse, in a perfectly trained triangle, each one cutting of the vantage points the beast would have.
"Yah!" One of them called in a throaty baritone, coaxing his hands over the flank of the beast, familiarizing it with human touch. The beast whinnied, running from him in the opposite direction. He took of his wide brimmed hat, rubbing the back of his hand over his forehead, reliving it of the sweat which built up there. The male was tall and powerful, his dirty, red dust covered shirt fluttered lightly in a sudden breeze, all in the ring stopped to enjoy it momentarily, before piercing green eyes returned to the object at hand. He ran a hand through his thick black hair, scratching the scalp before replacing the hat low on his brow, keeping the sun out of his line of vision.
"Samson!" He called, bringing another pair of green eyes to meet his, they seemed caught off guard, and without hesitation the horse rose on its hind legs, flailing his front limbs in aggravation toward the young man. He faltered, falling back on his rear, scooting out of the way quickly from the heavy hooves. He Pulled himself to his feet, quickly jumping over the well worn wooden fence enclosure.
"I don't think I can do this Joseph.... I'm not cut out for this training thing" He sighed, picking a ladle up from the bucket of water at his feet, drinking plentifully and pouring the rest of its contents of his auburn wavy locks. The other male, seeming to be in between the ages of the other two, did not bear there similar features, indeed, he appeared as though all recessive genes decided to display themselves on his phenotype.
"Come now, Don't give up so easily. You've barely gone a few hours of torturous heat." He chuckled, taking the ladle from his younger brothers hand and dipping it into the bucket, gulping greedily, and pouring a few spoonfuls over his reddish brown hair, cut short in the back, but still managing to find its way into his greyish blue eyes, dispute many attempts to push it back with a dirty, tan hand. They were all heavily tanned and muscled, hours spent tending to horses and in the hot sun had left them in agile form, resembling the horses they worked with for hours. " I know something that might cheer you up. That cart? Horse Dealer. Even better? His daughter... nineteen or so apparently. As the story goes shes very beautiful... and her pa's looking to get her hitched." His grin was devious, hand combing trough his messy locks once more, peering into the keen green eyes of his older brother. "Watchu thinkin' Joseph? Might this be the one?" The middle child teased. earning no more than a snort from the elder. "Not likely, Adam. Some spoilt city girl? Bet she cant even cook a decent meal. Give me that plump broad with the crooked nose down the lane anytime, she bakes up some fine raisin bread." The lot laughed together, but each of there eyes gazed down the road, as the billowing dust cloud grew, and the cart approached its destination.

 

[Talin]

Lila Ann Davenport rode in a carriage across unfamiliar land. A small gloved hand clasped her hat on her lap as the driver attempted, but did not succeed in missing the deep ruts in the lane. She knew her destination she was heading to the large farm of a horse breeder, a well-known and respected man, same as her father. The only difference was the man had sons, big strapping men that were in need of wives. Her father was in danger of losing his business and she only needed to choose one. She had a say in the matter and she agreed to go and look, perhaps love would strike and she would be able to settle down. The men in the city only wanted her for a handful of things, her looks, her father and her money and NEVER in that order. They thought that by being nice to her a great steed or mare would just be gifted to them. Recently it had gone so far as a man courting her until she stated that she wanted nothing to do with the horse business, it wasn’t the case at all. Needless to say he failed the test, sending Lily into a fit of tears. She wanted love, true love, a man to sweep her off her feet and send her heart into a fit of flight it would n’er come down when simply asked. Sighing she fanned herself gently as she looked out over the training circles.

“Tis simply too hot to be out in this today, don’t you agree Martha?” Martha, who had been snoozing across from her merely grunted in response. Lily shook her head, blonde curls moved with the action as bright blue eyes went soft. At nineteen the girl was wiser than those double her age. She loved riding horse but didn’t know all that went into breaking them. She’d been trained in the more domesticated manner and her upbringing had been a happy one. The woman that rode with her now was responsible for most of it since her mother’s death when she was only nine. Her father, bless his heart, had tried on his own, but couldn’t raise her on his own so Martha stepped in. “Poppa said he’d join me in three days time is that correct?” A single nod from Martha caused her lips to upturn into a smile. Perhaps these males would be different. She rode in silence simply staring out the window at the place she would stay for an undetermined amount of time; her father had been lax in the details. When the carriage came to a stop her young heart was beating a mile a minute and she nervously slid her white sunbonnet into place on her head. Smoothing her gloved hands over her yellow gingham dress she stepped out into the sunshine and heat.

Greeted by a maid she smiled and waited to be shown to her room where she could freshen up before dinner. The same gloved hand carried her own satchel into the house and sat it on the light blue coverlet of the four-poster bed in her whitewashed room. The soft bed caressed her now ungloved hand as the girl made her way around the room on soft soled shoes. Smiling she moved to the window, seeing no sign of the brothers she swiftly closed and locked her door. Gliding down the stairs in a white dress dotted with small violets she moved quietly down in white flats. Her hair had been brought down after a quick wash to her skin to remove the grime of travel. Coming to a parlor she sat with Martha and challenged her to a game of checkers while they waited. Soon a bustling sound assaulted her ears as swift and sure feet made their way through the house. The sound brought a knowing smile to her lips, but she continued on with her game. Finally giving up on a chance at winning she conceded to Martha’s expertise and settled in a solitary chair by the window and leafed through a book lazily. The interruption by the same maid was welcomed as dinner was announced and they were escorted to the table for dinner. Upon entering the room she was greeted by only empty chairs taking a middle chair she sat waiting only a moment when the door burst open. Lily looked up, her fair cheeks tinted pink while her clear blue eyes absorbed the sight.

 

[Wuffie]

After what seemed like an eternity, the carriage finally pulled up to the great farm house, its homey feel and large windows inviting her inside, as if to say 'come sit for a spell' the sons watched from a distance as the horse and buggie stopped, allowing a large woman to lumber off its side, the youngest, Sampson, cringed as he watched her hobble up to the house, looking with raised eyebrows at Adam, who laughed allowed and winked.
"Oh yessum, she seems like a real keeper. Destined for greatness that- " He stopped mid sentence, taking the top of his brothers head in his hand, turning it back in the direction of the carriage. this time a completely different form emerged from within, face covered by a summer white bonnet, her body covered by a gingham dress, but was enough to at least pique there interest in getting a closer look. Both of the younger brothers had already made motions toward the house, but were halted by the strong hands of the eldest grasping at their shoulders. "Nah, You lot will help me get this animal into its stall first." He demanded, and with a great sigh the two followed, spending the next twenty or so minutes coaxing the beast toward the direction of its stall, and finally inside.
When the lock was finally closed they raced for the house, only moments before the dinner bell was rung. Inside the dining room was a massive oak table, covered with a spread of almost any kind of home cooked food one could be craving. They had already begun without the brothers, younger siblings ranging from tots to early teens dug in without hesitation, all bearing a similar resemblance to the brothers, either black haired, or some variation of brownish red to a varying degree.
At the head of the table sat the father of this massive brood, a massive man, with the same green eyes as his kin, and a full, black beard which rested on his barrel chest. "You lot, cant be on time for anything. And with guests!" He Motioned to the young lady, two empty seats beside her, the younger brothers fumbled over themselves to take a seat on either side of her, one shooting a devilish grin, the other, sheepishly smiling down into his plate. The eldest however sauntered in a moment later, walking to the opposite side of the table, a quickly giving the preteen who sat there a quick swat on the back of the head, he yelped, getting up from the seat so that Joseph could be eye to eye with her. He said nothing, nor did he smile, picking up a slice of bread and beginning to butter it quietly. He knew better than to get in the middle of those two.
"Welcome!" Adam said swiftly, taking her attention as his. "Was your travel pleasant? Would you like me to get anything for you?" He battered her with questions, eager to please, smiling, cheerful.

 

[Talin]

The multitude of children rushing forth caused a pleased smiled to reach Lily’s lips. Martha only sighed in resignation at her mistresses’ merriment, glad that her only charge was of age in the eyes of society. Greeted by some she smiled back and answered their polite questions as properly as she could, sometimes drawing a blank. She felt out of place being the only one with fair hair among them, but allowed the more curious to touch her soft locks or pinch a small bunch and brush it along their cheek. Lily adored children, and they adored her back. Whispers were sent around the table about why she was there. As soon as the food was presented they took their seats. Respectfully leaving a spot open on each side of her. The young boy across from her continued to stare and blushed clear to his ears when Lily sent a wink in his direction.

Martha filled her plate with a portion each of meat and veggies even though Lily attempted to shoo her away. “I’m practically grown, please; allow me to make my own plate.” Looking around she saw that most of them had already filled theirs and ate. “Sir,” she spoke up, her soft voice bringing silence to the table as she spoke. A soft blush tinted her cheeks as she dipped her head. “Will your sons be joining us?” It was after this the door opened again and in burst three men. Each different, but alike in their own way. Two immediately rushed to her side. She sent a beaming smile in each of their directions. Pink soft lips parted allowing two rows of straight white teeth to show. Her eyelashes fluttered over her blue depths as the third sent the young boy scurrying. Older than the other two, he did not return her smile. Tilting her head at him she opened her mouth to speak when the one with reddish brown hair spoke up. Her smiled faltered looking into his blue-grey orbs, but only a moment before she tried to answer him.

“Thank you, yes my travel was very pleasant. No thank you, I am quite fine. Though perhaps I might have your name?” Turning she included each of them with her question, “All of your names, that would be quite helpful as you can imagine.” Picking up her knife she spread the butter over the bread and then proceeded to cut into her food. Unfurling her napkin she placed it in her lap and took a sip of water. Curiously she glanced across the table at the eldest. “Might I not receive a smile from the somber gentleman, or perhaps he does not fancy the finer things in life and instead takes advantage of their grace?” Turning her head to the younger one staring into his plate full of food, eyes working over it as though it were moving about in an intricate dance he was trying to learn. “You are shy, there is no need for that, I do not bite for I am a lady.” Smiling softly she tilted her head at the one that spoke first. “Your flirting will not get you nearly as much as you hope.” Satisfied for the moment, she ate in the brief silence they allowed her.

 

[Wuffie]

They attentions of the clan were squarely focused on there new guest, though politely stealing glances at her over the table, unlike the male beside her, who sought nothing but to have all her attention as his own.
"Oh! Of course, How silly of me. Adam." He said at her request, another wry grin coming across his face as she looked at him with those lovely blue eyes of hers. His smile faltered however as she turned to speak with the eldest, his eyes barely rose to greet hers, continuing to hungrily shovel food into his mouth until she was done speaking, he chewed thoughtfully, picking up a napkin and cleaning his mouth, emerald orbits finally meeting with hers in a less than warm stare.
"Joseph. And I very much enjoy the finer things in life... When they are earned." He shot back at her query, Indeed, his preconceptions of her did not seem to sway with a closer look at her. The soft white of her gown, the luscious, bounce of her clean blonde locks, skin which seemed to hide behind a dainty parasol for all of its days upon the earth. Despite his distaste for her more than apt upbringing, she was rather glorious to behold, and he found himself unable to keep his eyes from skipping over her features, if only momentarily. He looked at Sampson when she did, he fumbled his fork when she spoke, having it clank nosily against his plate, he finally caught hold of it, laying back on the table and sitting back against his chair, scratching the side of his head sheepishly.
"I-I'm not being shy. I just... didn't want you to be bombarded with attention... Not that you don't deserve it! I mean, you don't deserve to be bombarded, per se-" He clamped his mouth shut, seeing a glare from Adam out of the corner of his eye.
"Yes Sampson dear, do continue your babbling. Its ever so enthralling." Adam said contentedly, leaning his elbow on the table, peering around Lila and tilting his chin against his hand, the other gently brushing a curl of sunshine over her shoulder. "Children, yes?" He said haughtily, his mother clearing her throat with a death glare, Adam quickly pulled his elbow off the table, putting them both in his lap meekly, causing Joseph to let out a throaty chuckle.
"Indeed. Children." He Added, eyes once again meeting with hers monetarily, then back to finish his meal.

 

[Talin]

Adam the flirt, Joseph the grouch and Samson the shy, smiling to herself as she named them in her head. Silently she regarded each of them as she ate a few moments. She was to choose from these men her intended. Adam was kind and attentive, but a little bolder than she would have preferred. Joseph wouldn’t even bless her with a smile how could she be married to such a sour man; she wanted happiness not the loathsomeness he seemed to promise. Samson was gentle and kind, much like Adam yet less forward about it and more of a bumbler. Each was equally handsome and similar in looks.

She felt small and dainty as a woman should in a man’s presence. The gown she wore hid her womanly curves she knew once she stood there would be no mistaking it. The light corset she wore in summer did not allow her to go without showing her small waist though her hips were wide; Martha stated this was a good thing for bearing children. Her breasts were ample and restrained tightly against her body except when in a ball gown, though she chose a higher neckline than most to draw the eye up an away instead of right at.

“I’d like to get to know each of you, equally, so the best decision can be made for each of us. I want to be fair about it. Perhaps each night after dinner I will spend time with each of you and on the weekends each of you may woo me and have a private moment away with me. Maybe a picnic in the meadow, a swim in the pond, or a walk after dinner, something that would take a few hours of my time.” Starting with Adam she met each of their gazes, or at least attempted to. “Tonight after dinner we can talk and set up a schedule of sorts that will allow us a way to know who gets me when, I don’t want any fighting for my time.”

She lifted her gaze to Joseph, “And if I feel more for one of you than the other, I will try to be fair. If after a time you wish to stop spending time with me, please let me know so I do not get needlessly and foolishly attached.” She hoped they knew about the arrangement, if not she certainly would be made out to be the fool. Dropping her gaze from Samson’s lastly she turned her attention to her plate to let them think about what she’d said. “Might we meet in the parlor and talk a bit and discuss this further. I wish not to take up all of the conversation at the table.”

 

[Wuffie]

Each of the young men around her listened intently to her proposal, Joseph at times seemed to scoff, as if she were thinking to highly of herself, needing a schedule to work out which of them she would marry. His thoughts were such that if things were proper, she would be his alone, and he would not have to fight with his younger siblings for her attentions. But her father clearly lacked the backbone to betrothed her to the eldest, lord forbid one might upset the little girl. He could feel his blood boil as she spoke, indeed, he did have somewhat of a more jealous streak, but remained silent as she spoke her arrangements. Glancing at his younger brothers, then back to the fairer form between them, he could see that the battle was only just beginning.

Dinner continued after her proposal as per normal, but it much more abruptly for the oldest boys, scoffing down their meals in order to hurry to the parlour more quickly. The first to arrive was Adam, who seemed to do everything with a healthy dollop of gusto, taking a seat on a large wingback chair, covered in soft velvet, royal blue in hue. The room was a stark white, with rich Oriental rug, plush beneath their feet. There were other chairs about a large centre coffee table, peppered with small and intricate trinkets, the walls were decorated with other lovely paintings, one could spend many hours taking in all of the beautiful items within the room. Everything was royal blue, white, or a rich cherry oak, giving the room a comfortable, warm atmosphere, but also beautiful and well furnished.

Following quickly after Adam was Sampson, who took the chair closest to Adam, his hands ran over his knees nervously, looking at Adam curiously.
“ Is she serious about this? I don’t think there is much chance for me…” He said hopelessly, Adam laughed, nodding in agreement.
“No, probably not. Best give up now?” He questioned his younger brother, who scowled and shook his head, causing his older brother to laugh richly. Both their attention turned to the new entrant in the room, but emotions dropped when it was simply their older brother.
“Sorry to disappoint” He grunted, making his way to the fire in the large and ordinate fireplace, almost as tall as he. He stoked it impatiently, causing sparks to rise through the chimney, sending a glimmer of flickering light throughout the room. He leaned on its outcropping with a forearm, absorbing the heat as it flowed out around them. They did not speak much to one another, for now the gauntlet had been thrown down, and the competition had begun.

 

[Talin]

Lily ate and tried to not rush as much as she wanted to, she watched the boys wolf down their food while she listened to another of their father’s jovial stories. Smiling up at them as each left the table; she soon asked to be excused and strode to her room to freshen up first. They could wait, one versus three was no fun at all and they were very intriguing. Wiping her flushed face of with wet finger tips she stared at her reflection. The oldest had caught her eye with his laugh at the table and the middle one with his flattery. The youngest still had time she wondered if when they would have a chance to be alone he’d be as quiet. Steadying her heart she made her way to the parlor.

She opened the door only to have all three pairs of eyes on her. “Hello gentlemen,” Moving slowly into the room she closed the door behind her and allowed them to look her over a moment before she hoisted her skirt a bit to make her way to a seat. Dainty feet tucked into small white flats were exposed. She knew her figure was being scrutinized, and it caused her to hold her breath placing herself near the fire she sat smoothing her skirts around her as she allowed her eye to move over each of them. “This is very new to me; I have never courted one man, let alone three.” Her gaze settled on Samson. “First let me start off by telling you about me. I am Lila Ann Davenport; you may each call me Lily, unless we discuss something else.” She dipped her head and smiled wider for a moment. “I am the daughter of Michael Davenport a horse exporter from farther up north, it is a common assumption that I am from the city.” Her eyes moved to Adam, “I am not, I grew up on a farm and only live in the city during the winter because of schooling. It was very important to me. I have several hobbies; reading and singing are my favorites.”

“I’m a very good cook and plan on making a special dinner for each of you,” she blushed. Her gaze drifted to the fire and then up to the man standing next to it. “I need to get to know you so I can know what to make. Each of you know when you have free time, I am at your disposal. Meal times will be spent with all during the week.” Looking down to the clasped hands in her lap she looked up to each. “Each of you will get the same amount of time after dinner and I will try to visit with each of you equally, throughout the day. Does anyone have a preference on what order you will see me in each night? If so I can plan on rotating it so no one always gets to see me last and that is shared.” She could feel the tension when she walked in but felt it even stronger now as she laid out more terms. Fearful that things would get out of control she simply waited. We also need to discuss the schedule for each weekend as well.”

 

[Wuffie]

They waited patiently for her arrival, and when she finally entered the parlor, closing the door behind her, they warmth within the room increased palpably. There was a hush over the 'gents, eyes followed her across the room with vigor, until she seated herself, all eyes watched the rise and fall of her chest while she breathed, to her hands as they smoothed over her skirts, following down to the dainty feet which were soon hidden beneath the ruffle of her skirts. Finally they moved up to her face, where they watched a sweet smile come over her face, lighting up her expression.
"Welcome." Sampson was the first to speak up surprisingly, his boyish features split into a wide smile, revealing a pleasant set of teeth and adding some color to his features. He was certainly the most feminine of they boys, but not in the sense of being weak. Nay, it was more about the delicacy of his mannerisms, the symmetrical nature of his features, and the attentiveness of his surroundings that made him appear more deliberate in his actions.

They all listened attentively to her instructions, and when she finished, they each remained silent, as if mulling over exactly how they could arrange it to be most advantageous to themselves. Finally after a minute or so, Adam rose to his feet, opening up the door and dissipating out into the house, only to return moments later with a pencil and a notebook. Sitting himself on the floor then, he pushed a few of the trinkets on the table to the side, so as to make room for himself to write. Sampson followed suit, sitting next to him and peering over his arm, to get a better vantage of what Adam was scrawling down the lines of the paper. Joseph trotted over as well, but stood, looking down over the bridge of his nose to the paper, taking out his pipe and stuffing it with some cinnamon tobacco. He pulled out a match, striking it against the scruff on his chin, it ignited instantly, and he applied it to the tuft of tobacco within the bowl, giving it s few puffs before crossing hims arms over his chest, letting it hang unattended in the corner of his mouth.

Finally Adam finished what he was writing, looking over to Lily with a bright smile.
"So, I think Ive figured it out. Today is Saturday, so no one will be working much tomorrow, giving each of us ample time. I considered going in order of age, and then alternating for the rest of the days of the week." He paused, smoothing a broad hand over the paper, then running it through his plush locks before continuing. "Meaning that, tomorrow, after chores, Joseph will be the first to go, then myself, then Sampson in the evening. With of course a break somewhere in between for dinner." He added, glancing over to Lily again, his eyes were such a strange shade of blue grey, and wide, they seemed to take over in place of his other facial features, a strong chin and aquiline nose ignored in turn for the enthralling nature of his eyes. "You would of course have your choice on when to end each of these... rondevous. We wouldn't force you through the whole time if you wished to have some alone time. It is completely your prerogative." He added, Continuing to scribble in names in order for each day of the week. "So basically, if tomorrow is Joseph - Myself - Sampson, Then Monday would be Myself, then Sampson, then Joseph, and so on and so forth throughout the week, so no one would get preferential treatment." He finished the list, handing it to Lily as he leaned across the table, so she could take it in her hand before returning to sitting on the plush carpet.

"Seems fair enough." Sampson commented, his eyes turning up to his oldest brother, who stood there, arms crossed, continuing to puff on his pipe.
"Indeed." He merely added, walking past the lot and taking a seat in another large arm chair, it creaked under the bulk of his weight, leaning back like a great bear as bright green eyes purveyed the surroundings. "So what is the plan for tonight then? Exchange a little personal information? You already know all about us-"

He was interrupted by the parlor door being opened, one of the much younger siblings running in, her eyes, same as that of her brothers, a bright, almost florescent green, were flooded completely with tears, her small hands clutching to pieces of wood. She sobbed as she wrapped her arms around the bottom of Joseph's leg. He scrutinized her for a moment, before using one arm to scoop her up onto his lap. "What now?" He said gruffly, the little girls messy red hair falling into her face, he pushed it back roughly but calmly from her face, her small hands held up the two pieces of wood, looking like the head and body of a lovingly crafted wooden bunny. He frowned at her, she continued to sob, but took the small pieces in his hand, examining them for a moment before looking down at the small girl again. "Go get my knife and plaster." He said simply, the little girl wiped her nose on her sleeve, smiling and nodding quickly before crawling down off his lap, disappearing out of the room. Joseph looked up from the broken pieces in his hand, falling again on Lily. "Looks like I might be occupied for an hour or so. Im sure Sampson can entertain you, He plays the fiddle." Joseph smirked through his pipe, looking down to his brother.

"Hey! I play guitar! and Banjo!" Adam interjected before the words hand even finished leaving Josephs lips. "Or would you prefer to be off to bed? I'm sure your travel was exhausting."

 

[Talin]

You could have dropped a pin and everyone in the house would have heard it, chewing on her lower lip she crossed and re-crossed her leg at the ankle. Normally Lily was a patient person but this was a matter of the heart. A thankful smile was sent in Adam’s direction when he came back with paper. Giggling at Joseph’s antics, the smell of the tobacco reminded her of her grandfather. Her blue eyes watched the males intently until Adam , his blue grey eyes bright, stated he had it figured out. Reaching a pale hand out she clasped the paper in her dainty fingers. Her eyes moved to Sampson and then Joseph, somehow a light blush tinted her cheeks.

“If all agree than I do as well,” she said softly before Joseph spoke up about tonight. she began nodding her head when she stopped, the rush of a pair of feet and the appearance of a little girl, took her attention. Watching the interaction Lily’s heart melted, she could see him with their own child. The thought made her breath catch in her throat and she had to tear her eyes away to smile at the other two. All would make great father’s just Joseph pulled at her in a different way. This was going to be the hardest decision of her life and already she could feel the strain and the pull of her young heart. The little one wanted her bunny fixed, Lily could understand that. Her eyes moved over the other two and back to Joseph.

It was at the same time he looked up at her, having sent the little girl off for a moment. Nodding her head, her blonde hair set in motion. Her attention was on Sampson and then Adam as he scoffed. “I am fine, I thank you for your concern Adam. I would prefer to spend time with you all instead of in my room. I am excited to get to know each of you. I’m a tad nervous but I want to find a good husband. Someone that will care for me and bless me with many children.” She blushed at the confession. She wanted her own family, it was no secret, but she’d never stated it to a male before, let alone three of them. “I would love to hear you play, both of you.” Her eyes moved over both of them and back to Joseph.

“They will do fine while your time is occupied, Joseph.” She placed her hands in her lap and turned to the younger two. “It would please me very much to hear you play, unless you’d like to take a walk and show me around. Fresh air might be nice as well, I’m sure the land is just as beautiful under the moon. We could move to the porch with some lemonade as well.” The possibilities were endless for what they could do, she could sleep in the next day, nothing was expected of her except decisions. Adjusting in the chair she smiled and waited to be entertained.

 

[Wuffie]

The two younger brothers glanced at one another when the young lady spoke of a tour. Sampson chewed thoughtfully on his bottom lip, before shaking his head at Adam, who seemed to loose his cheerful nature for a moment. Joseph seemed perplexed for a moment while they interacted, but when the wee girl came back with what he requested, he stood, making a motion to leave the stifling warmth of the parlour.
“It might be for the best.” He said simply, excusing himself with a tip of the head toward Lily, making his way to the front porch so as not to get wood shavings in the house with his task. With his exit, both young eyes returned to Lily, who seemed more composed.

“Well, there is something we should probably show you, so as your well informed.” Adam said, rising to his feet, Sampson scurrying after him. Adam extended his hand in her direction, awaiting her to grasp it as to assist her to her feet, before the three of them walked outside, the cool air caressing their skin with a lovely, soft wind. Joseph looked up to the two, before cocking his chin out in a particular direction.

“They are getting closer. Be careful.” He said simply, eyes returning to the task at hand. Adam walked down the steps of the porch, beginning off in the direction of where Joseph had pointed, and allowing the other two to keep up with him. Eventually he stopped at one of the fences, which extended from the barn, encasing the farmhouse and animals in separate sections. He pointed off to the northeast from them; one could almost make out the hills, which extended miles away, and the darkness that shrouded them from vision.

As if on cue, a great howl erupted into the night, continuing for what seemed like hours, until it finally dissipated into the night. Sampson shivered beside her; he crossed his arms across his chest, looking down to Lily’s bright eyes.
“Wolves… They are much closer this year than others. And much earlier in the year, tis barely fall yet… Normally they don’t show up until the winter months.” He informed, as another howl went through the twilight, this one louder, deeper, more foreboding.
“You mustn’t leave the safety of the fences during your stay, especially at night. If we need go into town, one of us will have the shotgun.” Adam added, the boys seemed to have experience with these beasts in the past, and did not wish to encounter them again.
“We don’t want to kill them.” Sampson interjected, assurance in his eyes. “But… we fear for the cattle, and the horses… and the youngin’s. They don’t know any better. Wolves are dangerous.” He added, looking back to the safety of the farmhouse. “Perhaps we should return?”

Adam chuckled a bit, shaking his head. “Come now, the wolves are miles and hours away. We can give a small tour.” He rebuked, taking Lily’s small hand in his, pulling her in the direction of the barn. “Ever seen a Calf? One of the cows just gave birth a few days ago. You can feed her if you like” He continued, trying to brighten up the situation. Sure, Lily needed to be told, but they didn’t need to dwell on it.

 

[Talin]

Lily watched them, blue eyes taking in their expression though she said nothing, only tilting her head in question. A blush rose on her cheek as Adam held a hand out to her, standing she nodded slightly and followed the males. Gone was the heat of the day and the wind was cool and calm. Stepping onto the porch she moved to the edge grasping the white washed railing she closed her eyes and drank in the scent of the land letting the wind wrap and curl around her like the arms of a lover. Joseph’s voice reached her, snapping her from her moment.

“What is getting closer?” she whispered to the other two as she followed them off the porch. What was this great secret? Running into the back of Samson she paused and collected herself. Peering from behind him to see where Adam pointed to, she stepped around Sampson to stand between them her eyes seeing the hills. The howl rattled her to the core; fearful blue eyes fell to Adam and then Sampson. Both men towering over her, though it comforted her.

She knew it wasn’t a good thing the wolves were showing up. The food was rough for them and they were looking for something different. Horses and cattle, possibly even people. The duo confirmed her thoughts. “I won’t leave without one of you by my side, I swear it.” A shiver ran through her and she leaned gently into Samson, a natural instinct to find warmth and safety. “I agree with Sammy, please let us go back, I’m very frightened.”

Her blue eyes had that tinge of tears. Adam’s words were encouraging; he did know more about the animal than she did. Moving away from Samson’s warmth she allowed Adam to guide her to the barn. Her hand tingled in his. “No, I’ve never seen a calf, colts sure but never a calf.” Moving into the warm heat of the barn was nice after the shock of a scare. The barn smelled of animals and sweat and heat, a scent only a person raised around it could appreciate. Moving to the stall where the calf and its momma were kept Lily cooed. “Oh it’s so precious.”

Encouraged she moved into the depths and stroked her small hands over the mother and the baby. Forgotten were the wolves and the danger they possessed. Forgotten were the decisions that would fall upon her about choosing a husband. It was easier to dwell in the now and just let things happen. Soon reality struck and the trio moved back to the porch. Looping her arms through one each of theirs she allowed them to guide her back to the house. She could see herself stepping into a life with any of them; the hard part would be deciding which life she wanted.