Ruth A. Casie (10 page)

“Wait.” He struggled to get the word out.

She stopped and took a deep breath.

He shook his head. His eyelids slid closed and he fell onto his back. He fell asleep before his head touched the ground.

She stood next to him, laid the horse’s reins in one hand, and brought his other onto his chest. Satisfied, she silently vanished into the forest before he woke and admonished her for being outside the castle—without an escort. A scurry of leaves, seemingly caught in the warm autumn breeze, covered any signs she had been there.

* * *

“Lord Alex!” Robby called from the other side of the clearing and rushed to his lord’s side.

Alex looked up into the worried eyes of his captain. He wiped his hand on his shirt and he was shocked to discover he was wet.
It wasn’t a dream.
“Aye, I appear to have gone for an unexpected swim.”

“Prime pulled you out.”

Alex gave the man a questioning look.

“You hold his reins. He must have pulled you to shore.”

Alex looked at the reins in his other hand. His mouth dropped open. Impossible. He could still feel her hands on his chest. He could still taste her lips.

“He seems none the worse for his swim,” said Robby examining Prime. He patted the horse soundly on his sleek neck and whirled around to Alex. “I’ve sent Stephen ahead to tell the others we found you. Lord Bryce told us you were at the bridge. When we got to the cliff, the bridge was gone and Prime was standing here. We feared the worst. I should have known better than to worry. The men will be as relieved as I am. Everyone has been scouring the river for you.” Robby gave Alex a hand up and continued. “I don’t think your swim was spontaneous. The men found signs the bridge’s beams were cut.” He gave Alex a hard look. “Those Scots raiders must be at the bottom of this.”

“Robby, let’s not come to any rash conclusions. The only way down from there—” Alex motioned to the damaged bridge, “—is back the way you came. Did you see anyone?”

“Only Lord Bryce and his men.”

He mounted Prime, and glanced at the pool of sunlight. That was where she had stood. He licked his lips and tasted sweet berries. His chest tightened at the thought of her.

In a shimmer of sunlight he saw her clothed only in a wet chemise
,
every line and curve of her body evident.
He shifted uncomfortably
,
his arousal complete.
His eyes swept up her body and rested on the stone charm around her neck.
Finally
,
he looked at her face.
He took in a quick breath and gazed into deep green eyes filled with passion.

He shook his head and the image burst and faded. He wheeled Prime through the small clearing past the sunny pool. His eyes fell on a lone berry glistening ripe and ready to burst. “Faith,” he whispered to no one.

“Lord Alex,” called Robby.

Coming out of his reverie, Alex looked at his man. “Robby, show me what the men found.”

“You’re lucky Prime got you to shore.” They left the river’s edge and followed the trail up the cliff. “The rapids are not far and the falls right after. Someone truly watched over you today.” Robby rode on ahead.

“Yes, she certainly did.” He pushed the thought out of his mind and concentrated on what was solid and real as he headed up the path. If his men were correct, and there was no reason to believe otherwise, someone had tampered with the bridge, his bridge. He would think about these haunting visions later.

He arrived at the bridge to see his men along with Bryce and his patrol. “Lord Alex!” someone called out. His men quickly gathered to see him for themselves.

“We feared the worse when we saw the state of things and Prime riderless,” said one of Alex’s soldiers. “We thought you were lost to us. I’m glad to welcome you back.”

“I told you he would be here,” said Stephen. “I was with Robby when we found him on the shore, wet but no worse.”

“I’d never believe anyone could survive that fall,” said one of the Glen Kirk soldiers. There was a hint of suspicion in his voice.

“But our Lord Alex isn’t just ‘anybody,’” Stephen offered, his excitement brimming over.

Alex’s attention was drawn to the forest. Whatever it was had moved on. Alex led Prime down the line. The men cheered. He acknowledged each man heartily. Finally, he raised his hand asking for quiet.

“I’ve taken an unexpected swim.” He ran his hand down his shirt, sluicing off water.

The men looked and nodded at each other. A roll of light laughter passed through the troop.

Alex chuckled along with them. “Well, let’s put the swim behind us and concentrate on making the repairs. Robby, take the men back to the castle and bring what’s needed. I want to look around. When you’re done, post some men here to make certain there’s no further mischief.”

“Men, mount up.” Robby took the men back to the castle.

“Alex, you gave me some scare. I’m glad to see you’re well.” Bryce and his men remained.

“I’m fine Bryce, only a bit wet.”

“My men and I had worked our way up the river when we came upon your men. I was concerned that the current might have swept you downstream. We were near the falls looking for your...for you, when we got word you were napping on the river bank.”

The concern in Bryce’s eyes registered with Alex.

“Well, you can manage here. I’ll take my patrol down river and follow our original plan. I’ll meet you back at Glen Kirk and give you a report of what we find,” said Bryce.

“Many thanks.”

Bryce and his men rode off.

Alone, Alex climbed over the edge of the cliff to get a better look. His hand brushed over the exposed beam edge. The wood had indeed been cut halfway through. There was no way the bridge could tolerate the weight of him and his horse. As soon as he and Prime ventured to cross, the planking broke through.

“Someone’s really out to do you in.”

Chapter Nine

Alex looked up at the rim of the cliff. Jamie was on his haunches looking down at him. A broad grin lit up his face.

“So, it was you sneaking about in the woods? You must be careful, Jamie. Even my men are willing to blame the Scots.” Alex stretched up his arm for assistance.

Jamie grabbed Alex’s hand and helped him back onto firm ground. “You worry like my wife. And I wasn’t sneaking about.”

Alex brushed the dirt and decayed leaves from his clothes. “When anything happens it seems your people are the first to be suspected. I would think you would be more careful.”

Jamie bowed slightly from his waist. “Spoken like a true brother.” He pounded Alex on his back. The grin on his face faded and was replaced with serious concern. “You’re a very lucky man, Lord Alex Stelton. There’s no way you or your horse should have survived. You both should have crashed into the rocks.”

“I know. I wonder how Prime and I survived the fall?”

Jamie ran his hand through his hair, indecision written all over his face. “It’s not easy to explain.”

“Try.” He didn’t want to pressure the man, but he needed answers.

“Where to start,” Jamie muttered to himself.

“At the beginning. I’ll protect her. Surely you know that. But I can only protect her if I know everything.” Alex waited for Jamie to soak up his words. Alex knew Jamie was smart and would see he had no choice and admired him all the more for his determination to protect her.

“She has no idea the depth of her abilities,” Jamie finally admitted. He took a deep breath as if a burden had been lifted off his chest. “Somehow she protected you. I’m not certain how. Her abilities are...unique.”

Alex watched Jamie relax. He was right. “She was at the river. I heard her command to the water.” He looked at Jamie. “She believes in the old ways.”

“Does that bother you?”

“No. I respect the old ways and those who believe in them. Lisbeth uses charms and spells,” offered Alex. “I seem to have been the beneficiary of both.”

“Hubert—”

“One of the protectors,” Alex sneered.

“Yes, the first one actually, called her a witch. When those around her protested, he called them her coven. It wasn’t long after that encounter that she moved into the hunting lodge.”

“So she hid to protect others. No wonder she didn’t want a protector or to return to Glen Kirk. She is more honorable than Hubert.”

“In his defense, she did play a nasty trick on him. Laura and I were there when Hubert and the others arrived. Hubert had been obnoxious all day. He and his party swept into Glen Kirk as if he were the landlord and not a protector. By the end of the day Lisbeth had had enough. When the mist gathered in the Great Hall she snapped her fingers and sent it scattering.”

“What? How did she do that?

“The dog was curled up in the midst. When she snapped her fingers, he wagged his tail. Hubert screamed.”

Alex couldn’t contain his amusement at the image.

“And everyone laughed—at him,” added Jamie.

“No wonder Hubert called her a witch. No one likes to be the brunt of a joke,” Alex said soberly.

“When Hubert left I brought Laura to visit Lisbeth at Glen Kirk. We found her stripping the rooms bare. She said she’d found Hubert taking ownership of things that weren’t his. He even went through her trunks. I worked with her and the servants to take down the tapestries, put away the plate, preserve Wesley’s armor and Darla’s gems. Before the second protector came, she left the castle.

“There’s more. The king sent a second protector. He too thought it his privilege to loot Glen Kirk. What little was left he helped himself to. When that was gone, he and his men took what they wanted from the market.”

“Now I understand. Thank you. It explains a lot. But we still have the other issues.”

“Yes, we still need to get to the bottom of these attacks, first Wesley and Darla, the disappearing protectors, then the farmers, and now you,” said Jamie.

“You never told me what actually happened to Wesley and Darla. You’ve led me to believe it was a terrible accident.”

“I know. But I had to be certain. I couldn’t let anyone know my suspicion.”

“The rumors at court abound. All say it was an accident. They said they went into the forest too late in the day. The trail was iced over. The driver went too fast. But you’ve only told me the bare facts. I didn’t want to press the issue out of respect for your closeness to the family but I think it’s time I heard it all—every detail.”

Uncertainty crept into Jamie’s expression. Alex waited and let Jamie come to his own decision.

“Wesley brought Darla and Lisbeth to visit Laura and me. Laura was excited. The king had requested that Wesley and Darla bring Lisbeth to court. The women had been working on Lisbeth’s gown for weeks. Laura drove me crazy with her excitement. They spent three days with us and left one afternoon to get back to Glen Kirk before dusk. My men and I traveled with them to the border. Before we parted Wesley told me he feared intrigue. He would say no more, only that he expected to have the evidence he needed before they left for court. We said our goodbyes. Wesley took the others on their way.”

Agony twisted Jamie’s handsome features. “Why did I let Wesley dissuade me? I should have gone with them. The forest can be treacherous, especially at dusk. There was a tree down across the trail. The coach was forced to take another, more dangerous path. The ground gave way and the carriage rolled down the embankment into the gorge. Wesley’s men sent for help in both directions, to Glen Kirk and to me. We spent hours trying to get to them. When we reached the carriage there was nothing we could do. We found Wesley and Darla wrapped around Lisbeth. Only Lisbeth was alive. Her body was badly bruised. Her mind, well, her mind was bruised as well.”

“Lisbeth. I didn’t know.”

Jamie’s usually twinkling eyes had a haunted look.

“If it’s too difficult, you needn’t go on.” Alex put a steadying hand on Jamie’s shoulder. Alex read the gratitude in Jamie’s face.

“No, you should know it all. They had traveled the same trail three days before and the way had been clear. We couldn’t find the tree stump. We did find drag marks. The severed end was more likely a week old rather than three days old. We concluded the tree was placed across the trail. I took Lisbeth back to Laura and Gareth took the news to the king. It wasn’t long after Gareth returned that the first protector arrived.”

“Why did the king send protectors? You’re here.”

“Alex, you are a man who judges another on value. In your king’s court you are a rarity. Edward could not let a Scots take charge of an English holding. After Richard died, Wesley made arrangements with the king for Glen Kirk to go to Lisbeth, as the oldest surviving Reynolds. It was in your king’s best interest to get the best man he could to marry Lisbeth and fill the vacant seat. Until he found the right man, he sent protectors. The first ones were not...” He searched for the right word.

“Capable, and some were not honorable,” Alex finished.

Jamie’s face brightened. “Exactly. I think Edward thought Glen Kirk would run itself, and it did for a while, but eventually it needed a leader. With the arrival of each protector everyone hoped things would change. They wanted to return to the way things were. The first two brought disappointment. Wesley made it look easy. Anyone coming after him would have difficulty. Anyone without skill was doomed.”

“So where do you think the protectors are?”

Jamie ran his hand through his hair. “I wish I knew.” He stretched his legs out in front of him. “I wish I knew.”

“The rumors at court say they were victims of the curse.”

Jamie swung around to face him.

“Now don’t get upset. That’s one explanation. The rumors abound. Some say they are dead, and others say they were taken by the Scots.”

The expression on Jamie’s face turned murderous. “And what would we want with a couple of protectors who cannot even protect themselves?”

“Ransom. Not necessarily money but something to bargain with—to leave Scotland independent.”

“I don’t think the men were politically important.” Jamie scratched his chin in thought.

“No,” said Alex, “but they were all from wealthy influential families, which for the king is just as good. And I don’t just mean the protectors. Their men of arms who were also taken were from influential families as well.”

“Once the clan chieftains got wind of the rumor the Scots were blamed for the disappearances they banded together to search for the men. No stone was left unturned. The men have not been found.” Jamie got up from his perch. His hands were fisted at his side. “Well, it’s been quiet too long. I feared something would happen soon. I’m not surprised. Whoever the culprit, he has chosen a good time to strike, with your king visiting.”

“Yes, he has. But we’ll stop him.” Alex stood next to the Scots who was as close to him as his own brothers. “It’s good to know you have my back.”

Jamie nodded. “I’m glad you brought me that ale.”

Alex shook his head. “Gareth told me about you and your tie to the family. I knew we had to meet on common ground. Wesley’s ale was the best idea I could come up with.”

“You were either very smart or very stupid. I didn’t know which. You marched into my camp, two tankards of ale in your hand and introduced yourself,” said Jamie.

“Your camp wasn’t far from mine. I nearly tripped over your feet when I went to relieve myself.”

“Aye, we both were curious. In the end we figured out we were very much alike.” He leaned into Alex. “Me being the more handsome.” Jamie smiled.

“If you’ve a fondness for redheaded Scotsmen,” teased Alex as he pushed him back.

“As long as my darling Laura does, that’s all that matters.”

“We had a good talk that night,” remembered Alex.

“One of many that lasted into the wee hours of the morning.” Jamie got up and stretched. “You’re in great danger, Alex.” Jamie looked off the edge of the cliff at the churning water below. “Be careful.” The men headed toward Alex’s horse.

“I will. I must get back to the castle.”

Jamie held Prime’s bridle while Alex mounted up.

“I will get you a message if I find out anything.” Jamie patted the horse’s neck and released the halter.

“Many thanks, my friend. Many thanks,” called Alex as he rode off.

* * *

Lisbeth dropped the basket.

“Forgive me, Lisbeth. I didn’t see you on the other side of the gate.” Alex stared at the basket on the ground, then slowly up her body, complete surprise on his face. He reached out and twisted a damp curl around his finger. “A swim?”

She looked at him from under her thick dark lashes. She didn’t answer.

The spoils of her berry picking and trip to the market lay scattered on the ground. He knelt and helped her stuff everything back into the basket. Awkwardly, he still held some of her bounty. He took the basket from her and gave her his arm.

“Did you go for a swim?” he repeated. There was no way she could deny being at the river. She was ready for his wrath but if she hadn’t been there... She didn’t want to think of what might have happened.

“I enjoyed a very refreshing swim.” He pulled her along to the castle. “The bridge collapsed beneath me.” The crossed the kitchen garden.

“Are you all right?”

“I’m perfectly fine. Thanks to your help. I knew I didn’t imagine you.” He slowly drew his thumb across her lower lip. “Soft,” he whispered.

She closed her eyes and enjoyed the thrilling sensation.

“You always seem to be near when I need you. How is that?” They continued toward the kitchen.

She didn’t say anything. She didn’t trust herself to say anything.

“Did I imagine you kissing me back to life?”

She looked down at the ground, afraid if she looked at him she would burst into a million pieces. Her head told her to admit nothing. Instead she faced him. “When the baker’s wife gave birth, the baby didn’t breathe. In desperation I gave the baby my breath. It worked then. I had good reason to think it would work again.”

They stopped outside the kitchen door. “So your breath is part of me. You are very generous.”

Her heart jolted and her pulse pounded. Soothing warmth radiated from him and wove into a slender delicate thread that began to form between them.

He leaned his forehead against hers. “Thank you, Lisbeth.” They stood there for a few minutes. She wanted to feel his lips on hers. He finally pulled away and put a chaste kiss on her forehead. “I best go in and get out of these wet clothes. So should you.” His voice was soft and rough.

She nodded. She was afraid to speak.

“Good day m’lord, m’lady,” said Eve as they walked into the kitchen.

“Yes, quite,” said Alex. “If you will excuse me, Lisbeth.” He placed the basket on the worktable.

She followed him with misty eyes as he left to go to his room.

* * *

Alex stood in his room with linen wrapped at his waist while he dried his hair. War. He was at war but he had no idea with whom. He sat on the edge of his bed. How could he plan his defense? No, he must take the offensive, but Faith, who threatened him? He had to admit, the bastard was cunning. The raider had him looking over his shoulder at every turn and had fractured his defenses. His men were deployed everywhere. He even questioned their loyalty.

He bent down and picked up something gleaming from the floor. He fingered the small smooth stone amulet Lisbeth had given him. He worried the stone in his hand, laid back and ticked off the possibilities. The smooth feel of the stone and constant motion calmed and centered him. He deepened his concentration and allowed his eyelids to slide close.

He was back in the forest escaping from London and on his way back to Glen Kirk.
The excitement of winning his bet with the king replaced his anger over being the king’s entertainment.
He felt Prime hesitate long enough to reduce the impact of the branch’s glancing blow.
Once again the limb slammed into him and threw him to the ground.

He concentrated and sensed everything in his surroundings.
He was on his feet
,
his sword drawn.
He looked at the attackers for the telltale sign of the Scottish braid.
Jamie was right.
These weren’t Scots.