He stood up, picked Frang's cloak from off the floor where he'd dropped it. Wrapping her in it, he handed her the ruined clothing, then picked her up in his strong arms and carried her to their room. Naked she climbed into bed. He laid the fire and shed his own clothes, climbing naked in beside her. He lay curled up against her back, one of his hands loosely holding her breast.

"Well the gates have been opened now, I guess," Stuart whispered in her ear.

"What gates are those," she said drowsily.

"I think Thorburn and Frang were most appreciative of your charms, my wife. I doubt they'll want...