Moving closer to the fire, she squinted at her embroidery and picked at a stray thread. Every stitch had to be perfect if she wanted to sell it. Lately, embroidery had not been in high demand, and she depended on it as her main source of income since her husband had been gone. Lovingly, she sighed and paused as she thought of her husband, who had disappeared so long ago. Over time, she had stopped jumping every time she thought she heard his footsteps coming to their door, but she never gave up hope for his safe return. Very nearly in tears, she bent once again over her embroidery, breathing another silent prayer for him. Every night she burned a candle in their front window for him. Still, the little light seemed so small in comparison to the distance that might be separating them. Just then, she heard a noise outside of her door and she froze. Outside, she heard the sound of heavy footsteps and her heart leapt as the door opened to reveal a ragged figure who's eyes burned in the firelight. Not saying a word, he fell into her arms and her eyes filled with tears as she held her husband close.


[dedication page]
[previous][next]