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Sayrid was very glad that she hadn’t realized about her pregnancy until they were nearly home. Once he knew, Hrolf had worried about her all the time.
It had done her heart good to see Auda settled with a younger warrior whom she had met on the trip to Constantinople. It was clear that they loved each other very much. Hrolf, in his new role as jaarl, had settled some of the land that had once belonged to Blodvin’s father on the couple as a wedding gift.
‘I thought I’d find you here with our sons.’ Hrolf came into their private chamber, holding two goblets.
‘I wanted a bit of peace after today’s events.’ Sayrid gave a small laugh. ‘My stepmother’s decision to stay away because Auda’s chosen groom wasn’t worthy did not detract from the day one bit.’
‘It amazes me that you could forgive her.’
‘Holding bitterness in my heart helps no one.’ Sayrid shook her head. ‘I refuse to become bitter and twisted like her. Auda made such a lovely bride.’
‘The loveliest bride I have ever seen was my wife, who wore a crown of wilting flowers and a dress which revealed far more than it concealed. I wanted to slit every man’s throat who looked at you that day.’
‘You like to exaggerate.’
‘I never exaggerate where you are concerned.’ Hrolf handed her a goblet. ‘I’ve brought you some of the Frankish wine which Regin sent in honour of Auda’s marriage.’
Sayrid tasted the sweet wine. From its honeyed taste, she knew Regin had sent the very best, along with a gift of gold for their sister. ‘Did Bragi say how he was doing?’
‘He thrives.’ Hrolf came and put his arms about Sayrid’s waist. Sayrid leant back against his firm body, drawing comfort from it. ‘There was no place for him here. He welcomed the banishment. It gave him a chance to rebuild his life after what happened. And he is well thought of.’
Sayrid nodded. She understood why her brother had made the decision, but she wished life had been kinder to him. ‘I wish the baby had lived. Despite everything, Regin would have claimed it as his own. My brother is like that.’
‘It came too soon.’ Hrolf shook his head. ‘Blodvin’s death was one of the reasons why I worried when you were pregnant.’
‘You would have been worse if you’d realized that I carried twins.’
He kissed her neck. ‘The gods were kind to me. I have healthy sons and a wife I love. Once I thought love was something to be feared.’
‘And now?’
‘You and my children are my life. You hold my heart in your hands and I’ve learnt that my life is better with a strong woman by my side.’
For a long time neither spoke as they watched their twin sons sleeping peacefully in the cradle.
