Just the sound of his voice sent a wave of relief running through her. He was suspicious and doubtful and every bit the young lord of Locksley. But he was safe. She hesitated. It seemed most of the other adults were making excuses or lying or dancing around the subject. But many of them didn't know their young charges. She did. And well.
She saw the sandy brown head pop up for just a moment and couldn't help but smile. It had been a very long time since she'd seen that face, but it still made her heart do a little flip. Her child, the tiny baby still growing inside of her, would someday share those features. It was a thrilling thought.
"You wouldn't believe me if I told you," she called back, smiling despite her worries. What if he refused to believe her? Or holed himself up even longer? She found a tree stump she often used as a seat when they went out there and tucked her skirt around her knees before sitting. Ordinarily she'd never have worn a skirt out in the woods. It wasn't a requirement any longer and she was more than content not to. But she thought it might help the young Robin adjust a little easier.
"You've nothing to be afraid of, you know. You're far faster and more clever than me." Because even at nine, it didn't hurt to lure Robin out via his ego.