That night, after the plates had been cleared, Robb carried Bran up to bed himself. Grey Wind led the way, and Summer came close behind. His brother was strong for his age, and Bran was as light as a bundle of rags, but the stairs were steep and dark, and Robb was breathing hard by the time they reached the top. He put Bran into bed, covered him with blankets, and blew out the candle.
For a time Robb sat beside him in the dark. Bran wanted to talk to him, but he did not know what to say. ÔÇ£WeÔÇÖll find a horse for you, I promise,ÔÇØ Robb whispered at last.
ÔÇ£Are they ever coming back?ÔÇØ Bran asked him.
ÔÇ£Yes,ÔÇØ Robb said with such hope in his voice that Bran knew he was hearing his brother and not just Robb the Lord. ÔÇ£Mother will be home soon. Maybe we can ride out to meet her when she comes. WouldnÔÇÖt that surprise her, to see you ahorse?ÔÇØ Even in the dark room, Bran could feel his brotherÔÇÖs smile. ÔÇ£And afterward, weÔÇÖll ride north to see the Wall. We wonÔÇÖt even tell Jon weÔÇÖre coming, weÔÇÖll just be there one day, you and me. It will be an adventure.ÔÇØ
ÔÇ£An adventure,ÔÇØ Bran repeated wistfully. He heard his brother sob. The room was so dark he could not see the tears on RobbÔÇÖs face, so he reached out and found his hand. Their fingers twined together.
ByOdinsBeardGuest
