Cloven. She continued to watch him closely, deeply curious as to what had occurred between him and his father. From the words that had been exchanged in the corridor, it was obvious that something severe had happened. She'd not had the opportunity to ask him why he had been gone so long, leaving her alone to stew in her own fears, and after what had transpired with Thia, she had completely forgotten about his absence. But now, observing his cold manner and curt orders as he dealt with the servants, she would know what had happened between father and son. She could stand her curiosity no longer. As Alec passed particularly close to her palfrey, directing a groom to better secure his Saracen stallion, she called out to him. "Alec?" she hailed softly. He turned sharply as if she had startled him, but his expression immediately softened. "What is it, sweetheart?" She smiled weakly and politely beckoned him. Obediently, he complied and she immediately reached out to him. He took her hand and kissed it, although she could tell he was hurried.
