The rhythmic creaking of the cart wheels under the weight of the farming instruments combined with the soft, fading hum of the market behind them. Roan strained forward, pulling the cart with broad shoulders that rolled under the effort. His calloused hands and simple clothes contrasted with the warmth and playfulness in his hazel eyes.
From her seated position in the cart, Lynna adjusted the bandage on her leg. "Roan, you have no idea how grateful I am for this. It's only been a year since my return, yet everything feels so different. The market, the people… and Wil."
Roan glanced back, his grin revealing a teasing glint. "Ah, Wil. The dashing lad who swooped in and saved ya? You sure have a knack for landing yourself in some pickles, don't ya sis?"
Lynna chuckled, her tone light and playful. "Oh, hush! It wasn't quite like that, you make it sound so dramatic. I just let my guard down."
His laughter was hearty, the sound of someone who enjoyed life's simple moments. "Well, I reckon it's good that Wil was around. He's a solid sort, that one."
Her cheeks flushed softly. 'He is, indeed. Wil's changed a lot since our childhood.
The cart creaked as Roan's chuckle deepened. "Folks in the village have been a touch skittish since you came back. Old tales, mumblings, and such. But Wil... he's still the same ol' Wil. Maybe he's the right sort for you."
She sighed, rolling her eyes affectionately. "My dear brother, between Ma' and now you, it seems everyone is keen on pairing me off. Can we perhaps discuss other matters?"
He winked at her, a twinkle in his eye. "Just lookin' out for ya, sis. And speaking of pairings, remember when we exchanged letters 'bout my own weddin'? I reckon you'll find someone, and when you do, it's gonna be somethin' special."
Lynna leaned in, her eyes reflecting her emotions. "I can't thank you enough, Roan. For everything—from pulling this cart for me, to being my steadfast support against the village rumors. You've always been there for me." She then narrowed her eyes, her tone firming up a touch. "But seriously, drop the matchmaking topic."
Roan let out a teasing chuckle, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "I reckon you'd give any suitor a good run for their money, wouldn't ya? Might even scare 'em off with that fiery spirit and those magic spells!"
Lynna refused to play into his game and commented no further.
Roan halted the cart momentarily, turning to meet her gaze. "Well, ain't that what kin's for? Blood's thicker than water, after all. And no tales or old wives' gossip will ever change that."
Resuming his pull, Roan mused aloud, "We best be gettin' home soon. My lovely wife's waitin' for me, and I can't keep her waitin' too long."
Lynna smirked, "And WE wouldn't want to keep her waiting, especially since both of us are still living with our parents on the farm."
Roan chuckled, "Fair point, sis. Fair point." As they walked on, Roan's thoughts took a turn inward. No matter what the town folks might be yammerin' about, my sister's my sister, he affirmed to himself with a quiet conviction. We've shared fields and chores, joys and troubles. I know her true as the back of my hand. Ain't no rumor gonna shake that.
And as the close pair continued their way, the warmth of their bond and the gentle evening air momentarily made Lynna forget her wound and its pain, bestowing upon them a rare moment of bliss.