Kate felt his labored breath and he heart melted as his face lay in on her hands. She softly stroked a few locks of his hair. She had won his trust and she kisses his forehead. Tears filled her eyes and she blinked. His pain she could not bare. Kate whispers, "I have you. I won't let go."<br/><br/>Ann walked in and sees Trillen's face in Kate's hands. "Shall I get Allen?"<br/><br/>Kate looks up at her, "No..Hand me the vile and syringe. He is in so much pain is hard for him to speak. A few more days on the poppy will not harm him. I will wean him off. Please bring me a small bowl of soup and cider. He has to eat."<br/><br/>Ann hands her the syringe and vile of Poppy essence. Kate sniffles and lays his head on the pillow. I need your hip. I will hold you. I promise." Kate prepares the needle and pulls the covers revealing his side. "Ann hold him a moment."<br/><br/>Ann very gingerly places her arm over his shoulders. "You will feel a rush and the pain will ease. You may hold on to me if you want."<br/><br/>Kate bites her lip as his side was bruised and cut by the lash. She injects him in a spot free of blemish and covers him. Kate sets the syringe into a black case. "Boil the needle please Ann."<br/><br/>Kate hands the case to Ann. "I would like to have lunch here. Let me know when Papa arrives. Let Johh rest. I heard him arrive last night. Let him rest a day and then begin decorating the house. I have a feeling Papa will plan to have the first Winterfest Ball here. We need to write invitations."<br/><br/>Kate cradles Trillen's hands into hers and very lightly strokes them. "Soon they will mend and you will be strong again. I want you be my escort and protector."<br/><br/>Ann slowly releases him and stands. She gives Trillen a slight smile. "You're a brave one. Rest Dear. is there anything you want to eat or drink?"