Heart's Ransom (Heart and Soul) (37 page)

But Rose claimed Brynmor’s arm, stopping his flight.

Talon shook his head.  As trying as his children could be at times, he loved each and every one.  His arm tightened around Gwen and he gazed down at her beautiful face, marveling at the gift she had given him - one he thought impossible to achieve. 

“I once told Prince Edward his strength was based on the peasant but now I see I was wrong.”

“Wrong?” Gwen asked, her brow furrowing.  “I think you were right.”

“Nay.  I know my strength is in my family, rooted in the love we share.  I know, because of that strength, we will survive any turbulence of government, any war that threatens us.”

Gwen smiled up at him, then she focused on Brynmor and Rose.  “Then why not make that power stronger, Talon?” she asked softly.  “Especially since it is what two young people want?”

Talon’s humor faded slightly.  “Is this what they want?”

“Rose desires this, she worships the young man.”

“For what he did many years ago.  I understand.  But do we encourage their union for them...or for the benefit it will give us?  What if Rose’s infatuation proves to be misplaced?  I promised before God she would not suffer the anguish her mother knew.”

“Talon, because of your promise, you must allow her freedom, freedom to
choose, freedom to make mistakes and learn from them.  You cannot protect her from all pain.  She must learn on her own.”

“Our future remains uncertain.  Edward will bring changes to this land.”

“True, but how right you are that our strength is our family...our love.”

“Aye,” he said, warmth growing within him.  “The more turbulent the days, the stronger we become. Woe be unto Edward should he attempt to meddle with that.”