On the Way to an Easier Life

Author's note: This is a sequel to "Why Can't Life Ever Be Easy?"

The Robin Hood characters do not belong to me ( darn it ). No copyright infringement is intended. I am only playing with them for bit and I promise to put them back when I'm done.

Chapter 1

The night was dark. There was no moon to light the way. All was quiet as he crept along the cold castle wall. When he reached the end of the hallway, his blue eyes peered around the corner. With no one in sight, he rounded the corner and headed for the only doorway. Three light raps, then one more and the door quietly opened. She saw his grin first and couldn't help but smile herself. She grabbed his hand, pulled him in, and quickly closed the door.

"My lady ."

"Rather late for calling, is it not? ", she smiled.

"Well, you know…", he began. He did not get to finish the thought for she leaned in and placed her lips gingerly on his.

"I should call late more often!", he said with a laugh when they pulled apart.

"I miss you.", pouted Marian.

"And I miss you.", said Robin, tucking her long hair behind her ear and laying his hand on her cheek. "I am sorry I cannot be the one to come every day."

"I know, but I understand. " As she leaned into his touch, she asked, "How is my father?"

"He is well. He misses you terribly. It is difficult to keep him away. But, he grows stronger every day."

Marian smiled again. She moved to walk over to the bed. She sat down and patted the soft mattress for him to join her.

"We intercepted the tax cart yesterday. Thank you for the information you passed to Will. That money will feed many for weeks."

"I fear for you all, sneaking in here every night. Will and Allan come disguised as guards. But you, you walk about as if you are daring the sheriff to catch you."

"Do not ask me not to check on you daily. I have to know that you are all right. You put yourself in danger by staying here. Come with me. Stay with me in the forest.", Robin begged.

"Robin, we have been through this. I may find out more important information that can help you. Let me do what I can."

"I do appreciate your help. I just want you safe and near me."

"Just a while longer. I will be fine.", responded Marian as she touched Robin's hand.

Robin looked down and shook his head. "Is there anything you need?"

"Yes. I need you to hold me for a while."

"With pleasure, my lady."

They spent the next few hours cuddling, talking, and reminiscing of happier times. Just before daybreak, as Robin was sneaking out of the castle, they stood in the doorway for one more kiss. They failed to see the pair of eyes that was watching, hidden around the corner.