Chapter 25: Night liaisons
The crowd erupted in cheers and applause.
Children threw flower petals into the air, women dabbed at their eyes with their sleeves, and men clapped Baren on the back with congratulations. The musicians struck up a lively tune, and the real celebration began.
Tables were quickly rearranged, and the feast was brought out in earnest. Platters of meat, bread, cheese, and vegetables appeared as if by magic. Jugs of ale and wine were passed from hand to hand.
The air filled with the sounds of laughter, conversation, and music.
It was nothing short of a festival in the village.
As the sun began to set, the dancing started.
Baren and Ryanna had the first dance, spinning together under the oak tree while the whole village watched and cheered. Then others joined in, young and old alike, until the entire square was filled with whirling couples.
Jaenor found himself partnered with Rena, who threw herself at the chance. She was a good dancer, light on her feet, but as the evening wore on, she drank more and more of the strong ale until she could barely stand.
She was happy that Jaenor’s eyes found her once again. She ignored the fact that he slept with his mother, not angry about it anymore.
"Easy there, girl," Jaenor said gently, catching her as she swayed dangerously. "I think you’ve had enough for one night."
Rena giggled and leaned against him. "But the night is still young, Jaenor. And you’re so handsome when you smile."
He chuckled and helped her to a bench near the edge of the square. "You’ll thank me in the morning when your head isn’t pounding like a blacksmith’s hammer."