Part 8
Three sets of eyes followed Samantha as she wandered the gardens, each unaware of the other and each lost in his own thoughts. This woman had a magic all her own. They watched as new life erupted as she passed along the paths of the garden. Flowers that had been seemingly dead for centuries opened. Animals that had once been frightened to venture into the realm of these gardens now followed her. She was light in their dark world and whether she was the one or not, each man coveted her. Had one of them already won her heart? Would they be able to hold this light in their life?
Nickolas was completely aware of his masters’ watchful eyes as he approached her.
"Oh!" she gasped startled as his hand touched hers on a flower.
"I’m sorry," he apologized casting his eyes away from her and pulling his hand back.
"It’s okay, Nickolas," she smiled as she reached to take his hand again. "I’m glad you found me."
His blue eyes came to life with her touch and her voice, just as the garden had. "You are?"
"I wanted company but I couldn’t find Howard."
"I’m sure he’s not far. Would you like me to find him?"
"No, stay with me. I’m sure he’ll find me later." Samantha began to walk along the path forcing Nickolas to follow. "Thank you for taking such good care of me."
"I didn’t do anything, my lady," blushed Nickolas.
"Please, call me Samantha. I don’t like all the formality of court…Lord and Lady and Sire. It’s so stiff."
Just like with Howard, Nickolas was at ease with Samantha and gave a soft chuckle. "Lord Howard feels the same way though of all three of my masters, he is the most gentlemanly of all. He never makes me use titles when I’m alone with him."
"How long have you been here…at Eternity?"
Nickolas knew he shouldn’t answer her so he said, "I don’t know…time slips away so quickly here."
Before Samantha could push further, an elderly woman carrying a basket met them. Nickolas recognized her immediately and was fearful for Samantha’s safety. He knew his masters trusted this woman but would she try to harm Samantha?
"What are you doing here?"
"I came at Lord Howard’s request." The old woman reached into her basket pulling out a rose and handed it to Samantha. "A rose for the beautiful maiden."
Samantha took it and held it to her nose to take in the sweet fragrance. Immediately, her surroundings began to spin, then darken, and she fainted.
Panicked that he would be held responsible, Nickolas scooped her up as he demanded, "What have you done to her?"
"She’s simply asleep. Take her to Lord Howard and tell him it's done."
As suddenly as she appeared, the old woman was gone leaving Nickolas holding Samantha in his arms.
