Papillion tiptoed behind me as we came upon Marius' couch. He was propped up on pillows and staring right at me as I crept closer. I could hardly believe my eyes, seeing him awake. Nor could I hold myself back from easing down to his bedside and embracing him as gently as I possibly could. I had missed him so!
But he made me leave. Not the lady. Just me.
"Damos, why are you sticky and covered head to toe in dirt? Go bathe yourself and put some clothes on."
I suppose he wanted to speak with the lady in private, and how I longed to crouch outside his door and listen. But I dared not disobey him. I had already cost him so much.. almost his very life.
Later when I had finished my bath and dressed myself in a houserobe with the sash tied, Papillion was already in her own room and I was happy to see her again. She let me watch her as she changed her clothes for bed, confiding in me that she was afraid of the dark.
"If you want to, you can sleep in my bed with me." I could not bear the thought of her feeling afraid.. for there is really nothing to fear under my Master's roof. This made her smile. Moreso when I offered to leave a candle burning all night, even after we had long fallen asleep.
"Marius asked to see you, Damos. Will you hurry back?" Already I had lit a candle as she crawled down beneath my sheets.
"Yes, Papillion. I promise." Promises are easy for her. She is free.
But Marius broke my promise, for he had intended to keep me with him all night.
