Darkness cradled the forest like the arms of a shadowy lover, quieting the landscape as a man might hush his sweetheart into a peaceful, trusting slumber. The narrow path meandering through the trees would be hidden now, save for those who might know its secrets, and be drawn to seek it out after sunset. Behind the veil of trees, a wisp of smoke rose from the chimney of a stone cottage. Thin threads of light might be glimpsed around the jealously fastened shutters, suggesting that something stirred within, even in the silent hours of the night.
Within this mysterious abode, something was indeed stirring. A soft swish of skirts heralded the arrival of the woman in black as she returned to the candlelit bedroom. The air was thick with sweetly scented smoke, mingled with the pungent stench of sweat. Beneath the silky sheets lay a man, brown haired and plain featured. The pillow cradling his head was damp with perspiration, and his face tossed left and right restlessly. Hushed sounds arose from his lips. Meaningless words, pleadings.
The woman in black stood over him with her eyes bent to his face. A cool hand rested against his slick brow, and his eyes flew open, wide and dark in the shadows.
"More," he croaked to the figure standing over him.
The woman smiled. "In time," she replied, in a silken, smooth voice, the sound of it alone like a balm to the ears of those who heard it.
A trembling hand lifted from the coverlet and reached for the laces of her bodice. "Please."
Her slender fingers moved quickly to snatch his hand in her grip. His hand was not cast away, but instead cradled between both of hers and pulled against her breast.
"In time."
