Chapter 3

“And I still have to chop wood or I’ll be punished,” he muttered, but the energy to move escaped him. He walked away from the house and down the slope toward the stream that ran into the mill pond. “If they can’t find me, they can’t punish me.” He waded in the water with his boots on until he came to the pond and dove in, still clothed. Surfacing, he splashed about enjoying the cool, refreshing dip. The bright moon illuminated the area and Cillian scanned all around him, ensuring he was alone.

He emerged from the pond and removed his clothes, laying them out on a rock. The heat of the day was fading fast, but the stone retained some warmth.

I hope they’re dry by the time I go home. He jumped back into the water, naked, letting the cool liquid wash and cleanse his body, sweeping the stench of sweat and grime from his skin and hair.