nearly all of those times were after sunset.»

Slavica gave her a faint smile. «I feel the difference tonight. I know you will think I'm superstitious, but something is not right this evening and it is better you stay here with us.» She patted Natalya's arm. «There is much to do here. Mirko will play chess with you. He is quite good. Or I will teach you more about the local herbs and how to use them to heal.» Slavica was a trained nurse and renowned for her healing skills throughout the district and for her knowledge of the local healing herbs and how to use them. The subject fascinated Natalya and she enjoyed spending time in Slavica's company while the woman imparted her knowledge.

Natalya shook her head, regret lingering in her heart. Slavica was the kind of woman that made her ache to be part of a family and community. «Thank you, Slavica, but I have protection.» She pulled the cross hanging on the thin silver chain from where it was hidden beneath her shirt. «I appreciate your concern, but I'll be fine.»

Slavica started to protest, but stopped herself, pressing her lips together firmly. She simply shook her head.

«I know what I'm doing,» Natalya assured her. «I'm going to slip out through the kitchen if you don't mind. I've got food and drink enough for several days and I'll be back in the middle of next week if not sooner.»

Slavica walked with her through the dining room. Natalya risked another glance at the man sitting at the bar talking to Mirko. He seemed absorbed in the conversation, but she didn't trust him. He had shown interest in her and it wasn't the interest of a man looking for a woman. She had no idea what it was, but she wasn't going to take any chances. She gave a small nod toward the man. «Who is he? I haven't seen him in here before.»

«He travels through this way many times on business.» Slavica's expression gave nothing away. «He's very quiet and I don't know what his business is.»