Although instinct might have appeared to be dictating her tongue, she knew exactly why she was being so insistent. It was simple, really. She would keep this man with her, and she would keep him safe if she had to.
True, she had spoken honestly when she had told him she wished for the opportunity to learn more about this land, but there was another reason she was demanding to go with him. And, it was one she would not voice to him, though it was not very hard to understand: she was still grieving for loved ones now gone. Added to the loss of her brother, as well as her father and mother, was now Mr. Henrik's plight. She was not going to lose Stands Strong—her only friend—too. She would take her gun, and she would defend him with her life if need be.
My life?
The truth startled her. She had only known this man for two days…two short days. Did she really care about Stands Strong so much as to come to his defense, even risking her own life?
Yes, I do and I would.
But, she had no intention of dying; especially now, when the responsibility to secure her family's welfare lay squarely upon her shoulders. But, if her family's welfare depended on her, then she would learn how to care for each one of them here in this strange and hostile land.
When she raised her eyes to his, she found him staring at her. He didn't utter a sound, though. He simply looked at her. Yet, so intense was his regard, Czanna felt as though she were melting under it.
"Ánniayi.So be it," he said after a time. "But, if you go with me, I would caution you—and I would have your word on it. You will do exactly as I say. This is important since you do not know how to scout. And, if this is to be your attitude toward me when I must perform a scouting mission, then I will have your word, also, that you will submit to learning the skill. Otherwise, you will not go out with me again when I am required to scout. Do you agree?"
"I…" Did she have a choice? "Oh, all right. But, I agree only in this way. Yes, I will learn as quickly as I can about what you do and how you scout. But, I will only do as you command so long as you are not in any danger. There. That is what I will agree to. But, you should know this: I will keep an eye on you, and if I see you are trying to sneak away tonight, I will dog your steps. I promise I will."
Suddenly, he laughed, the sound of it deep and virile. He said, "I fear I will have to rename you, and it shall be Stubborn Woman. Yes, I think I shall call you by your new name, Stubborn Woman."
"I am not stubborn!"
He merely grinned.
