Thane pulled away and turned his body as Leighton reached up to lay against him. He held him close as he leaned against the tub and stroked his back.

     "The old herder said almost no one travels here," Leighton continued as he laid his head on Thane's shoulder, his arm draped over his chest. "You've seen by the condition of this place that no one but that old man knows it exists.

     We could stay here for a while and live in peace. We could fix it up: repair the roof, clean out the dust and cobwebs, scrub the inside like we did that table, repair the cupboards and shelves. Food is all around us. I wouldn't even think that herder would notice a missing sheep from time to time," he softly laughed.

     Thane had been doubtful at first as Leighton presented him with the suggestion. As he spoke, however, it didn't seem like such a bad idea.

     "They'll come looking for us," Thane replied. He continued to softly caress Leighton's shoulder as he held him closer. "I have a duty to the court and the bandits aren't going to let you go, nor will that pampered aristocrat."

     "That's what I'm saying," Leighton continued, undaunted, and sat up to continue. "No one ever comes here. It won't be forever. We could just bide our time, lay low until most have forgotten what we look like or moved onto something more important.

     In a few months' time or a year or two, do you really think that pompous Lady will have nothing more to worry about than a purse with a few coins that were immediately returned to her? Even if she can't let it go, her husband and the king will have more important things. There's always some conflict brewing with another kingdom or even within the palace walls.

     As for the bandits, how long do you think they're going to waste their time on me over the virtue of their leader's son and daughter? I can assure you, I didn't get her pregnant, and I suspect he hasn't told them about me and his son. He'd never reveal such a scandal.

     Time is all we need. Thane," he said in a calmer, lower voice as he moved against him. "Please, can we try? Please ... Thane ... I don't want to die."

     Thane held Leighton close as he cried loudly over his shoulder. He shut his eyes tightly and tried to ease Leighton's trembling body.

     "Shhh... I won't let anyone hurt you. You have my word," Thane swore.

     It was as Leighton spoke of his impending death that Thane felt a fierce need to protect him. He'd do whatever he must to keep Leighton alive.