9

I stepped into the room where Cain was receiving treatment, carrying a tray of warm food I had prepared for him. His smile lit up the room as he saw me, and my heart swelled with relief and affection.

“Agnes, you’ve come,” he said, his voice filled with warmth. “I was hoping you’d visit.”

I set the tray down on a nearby table and pulled up a chair beside his bed. “Of course, Cain. I couldn’t stay away,” I replied, a soft smile playing on my lips.

He chuckled softly, wincing slightly at the movement. “I guess the tables have turned,” he said playfully. “Now you’re the one nursing me back to health.”

I couldn’t help but laugh. “Yes, it seems that way. But you were so brave out there, protecting me from that boar. I owe you my life.”

Cain’s expression softened, and he reached out to take my hand. “You don’t owe me anything, Agnes. I would do it all over again, without hesitation.”

His touch sent a jolt of warmth through me, and I squeezed his hand gently. “Thank you,” I whispered, my voic