A/N: Just a quick fic before I fall asleep. Watching season 3 has gotten me in a writing mood. I miss my Eskel so much. I love him. :)))
Summary: With spring just around the corner, Eskel takes you to welcome the new arrival.
Or, Lil’ Bleater has even an littler bleater.
With spring so near, the mornings were cool but the days were warm. When noon arrived, so did the sun and the open sky. The world was so expansive without a single cloud in sight. The songbirds took to the vastness just like fish to the deep sea. The day was filled with their tunes as you worked in the fields. Music flowed with the gentle, coy breezes.
Blooming flowers litter the air with their intoxicating scent. Fat, furry bumble bees flew beneath your hands as you gathered dandelions and clover for Lil’ Bleater. She will be marking the beginning of spring with a little bleater of her own.
“Spring has come early,” came a voice from the top of the hill. Eskel called down to you, his voice hurried.
You ran up to meet him, bouquet gripped tightly in your hand. “How is she?” you asked the moment you reached the tall Witcher. “Is she alright? How is the kid? Did it make it?” Your words came in quick succession. You searched his amber gaze for any sign of something having gone wrong. “Oh, Eskel, how is Lil’ Bleater?”
He smiled at you. After so many years on the Path, his eyes crinkled with the show of emotion. His teeth showed as well, he was so happy. “She’s well. I have someone I would be honored if you met.” Eskel reached for your hand and you met him. His palm was warm, coarse, and oh so gentle holding yours.
“Is it a girl? A boy? Oh, have you decided on a name, Eskel?”
Eskel chuckled, a sound like Maytime song and festive music. “I haven’t. I thought you should name her.”
“Her?” You matched his expression, bringing your clasped hands to your lips. “I can’t decide. Daisy, Rosie, Posey? I don’t even know. Aspen, Hazel, Willow? It's too soon. River, Brooke, Marina? Oh, Eskel, what will we do?”
Over your musing, you and Eskel had made it back to the farm in no time. The barn doors were open and you could make out Lil’ Bleater and her kid towards the back. The darling was so small. She could fit into your arms and you would still have room to carry a basket. Her fur was white as flour, snow, and parchment. Her snout was the loveliest shade of pink. She was the concept of love and affection made solid.
“She’s precious,” you gasped.
“She’s healthy and feeding well. Lil’ Bleater will need time to recover but she’s doing well.” Eskel brought your hand up to kiss it as well. “Would you like to greet them?”
You moved slowly, mindful of how your presence could be perceived by the new mother. When you got close enough to the pair, you got onto your knees and sat down next to the doe and her kid. “Hello, my loves.” You gave Lil’ Bleater her bouquet, which was well received by the exhausted mom.
“Have you landed on a name?”
“Not quite, but she’s so lovely. Can we call her that?” You looked up at Eskel. “Lovely?”
His expression softened more, if that was even possible. “Of course.” He sat down next to you and the pair. His arm wrapped around your shoulders, pulling you in close. “Lil’ Bleater and her daughter, Lovely. I think it's perfect. They’re perfect.”
