Aye, mayhap Edmund’s visit could be used to her advantage. She forced a smile across her face. She would not allow herself to dwell on undesirable thoughts. Nor would she think on James’ impending marriage.
Dios mio, where did that thought come from? Shaking her head, she crushed the gowns to her chest. The last thing she needed to be thinking of was the uptight Captain James.
Even if he was the most fine-looking, honorable man she’d ever met.
~***~
The stone warm against his palms, James leaned over the wall of the gatehouse to observe the approach of Lord Wighthurst and his men. Accompanied by four guards and a squire, it was difficult to view him properly.
Taking the spiral steps down to the wall, he strode along the top and into the courtyard. Dominic and Lucy already made their way across the dusty bailey as their visitors assembled by the stables. James hurried to get there first. He wanted to take a look at this Earl of Wighthurst before the Lord and Lady reached him. The churning sensation of mistrust was on him again.
A figure stepped past the soldiers and James let out a breath. Lord Wighthurst was short, with the soft looks of someone who spent more time at court then on the battlefield. But still he was probably considered handsome. With neat dark hair and a smooth jawline, James imagined the man was never lonely for the company of women.
He still kept his hand clenched around the pommel of his sword. Though he believed himself a good judge of character, he had also learned never to judge a man by appearance alone. Lord Wighthurst might not be able to wield a sword but who knew what other skills he might have?
Flowing robes partially hid a chest plate of armor as Wighthurst made to greet Dominic with an extended hand. James had to conceal a grimace. Wighthurst placed a sweaty palm into his as Dominic introduced them.
“A pleasure, Captain,” Wighthurst greeted smoothly.
“My lord.” James inclined his head in acknowledgement.
“And this is my lady wife, Lucy,” Dominic continued.
“My lady, what a pleasure. And you are with child. I pray our Lord God blesses you with sons.”
Lucy dipped courteously. “My thanks, my lord. I pray you had a safe journey?”
“Aye, indeed. Northumbrian countryside is most diverting. But, alas, I am weary.”
“Well you must come and replenish yourself, Lord Wighthurst,” Dominic declared, motioning to the hall behind them.
“Aye, aye,” Wighthurst agreed. “A drink would be welcome indeed.”
“Come then.” Dominic led the way and James followed, keeping a wary eye on their guest.
The Earl took the few small steps up to the hall and a guard pushed open the heavy doors for them. The weighty sensation still sat in James’ chest as Dominic settled Wighthurst into a large carved chair and Lucy handed him a goblet of wine. His eyes lit suddenly and James turned to see what had caught his attention.
Ellise.
Hellfire, did she have to look so beautiful? He glanced back at Wighthurst to note that Ellise had indeed captured his interest. The pale gold gown she wore made her skin radiant and her dark hair shine. Caught up in a spiraling braid, those few pesky strands still lingered around her face and James itched to press them back.
Oblivious to his—or Lord Wighthurst’s—study of her, she sat, head buried in a book at the far end of the hall. He couldn’t see the title but he imagined it was some guide to herbs. The lass, who so often scolded him for working too hard, surely took her duties just as seriously. As much as her presence complicated his life, he felt grateful to have her looking after Lucy. He prayed she delivered the babes safely for Dominic’s sake as much as her own. His old friend loved her more than anything and he dreaded something happening to the Lady of Thornewall.
“Ellise,” Lucy called, making her look up from her book.
She blinked rapidly, a wave of confusion coming across her expression and James’ heart thudded erratically as her gaze connected briefly with his. Laying the book on the arm of her chair, she came to her feet and hurried over. Her dark eyes grew wide as she focused on their guest.
“Forgive me,” she said breathlessly. “I did not even notice your arrival.”
Wighthurst released a slow smile and stood, and James fought the desire to wipe it off his face as an appreciative glint entered his cold blue eyes.
“Lord Wighthurst,” Lucy intervened. “May I introduce my lady-in-waiting, Lady Ellise?”
“A pleasure, my lady.”
“My lord.” Ellise dipped carefully, a polite expression pasted across her face but the wariness was still there. Or was it something else? Did she find the man as attractive as he clearly found her?
“Your accent…‘tis Spanish is it not?”
“Aye, my lord,” she replied tightly.
Wighthurst’s lips twitched. “I thought as much. I knew a Spanish lady once. A very fine woman indeed. ”
“Will you take some more refreshments, my lord?” Lucy interjected.
“If you would not mind, I might seek rest in my chambers. I am weary after the journey.”
“Of course. Ellise, will you—”
“I’ll show Lord Wighthurst to his chambers, my lady,” James interrupted. He certainly was not going to give Wighthurst time alone with Ellise. Not when he looked at her like that.
Lucy blinked, but nodded. “As you will, Captain.”
James stepped back as the Earl spoke briefly with Dominic and took the moment to study Ellise. Color had risen high in her cheeks and she kept her gaze on the floor, hands clasped tightly in front of her. Was she interested in Wighthurst too? His stomach clenched.
It was only because Lord Wighthurst was not a pleasant man, that was all. Ellise deserved better than a power-hungry earl. Not him, though. Nay, their circumstances were too far apart. She deserved marriage and babes. He could offer her none of that. Not when he had to find a well-connected wife.
“Well, Captain, shall we?”
Schooling his expression, James nodded. “This way, my lord.”
He led Wighthurst out of the hall and into the courtyard. The servants and villagers bowed as they passed and James ushered him into the garden tower. It led to the guest chambers that sat over the guard’s quarters. And was far away from Ellise’s. Thank the Lord.
“You need not spend your precious time escorting me, Captain. I am sure I can find a servant to show me to my chambers,” Wighthurst protested as James motioned for him to follow the spiral steps.
“Not at all, my lord. I take a personal interest in all who step within my walls.”
Wighthurst paused on the steps. “Your walls?”
James ignored the marked question. “Be assured, my lord. Nothing happens within Thornewall without my knowledge.”
They reached the top of the steps and James pressed past and escorted him down the narrow hallway. Mary stepped out of one of the rooms, a bundle of linen in her hand and she dipped as they paused in front of the chamber.
“‘Tis all ready for ye, my lords. I’ll have some food sent up in but a moment.”
“My thanks, Mary.”
“Ye are very welcome, Captain.” She flashed him her most flirtatious smile and he groaned inwardly. As much as Mary was a pretty lass, she barely interested him anymore. He couldn’t imagine being with anyone who did not have beautiful exotic skin and glossy dark hair.
“Well, here we are, my lord. Mary will see that you have all you need.”
“I thank you, Captain.” Wighthurst turned his smile toward Mary.
She simpered and James sucked in a breath through his nostrils. He didn’t like that the maid found him attractive. Did Ellise think so too?
Hell’s teeth, but he needed to stop caring what she thought. Offering the quickest bow possible to Edmund, he spun away. Briefly pondering finding some company for the eve, he shook his head. Nay, he had no taste for it. That lass would be the death of him.
~***~
Ellise peered around the chapel do
orway and sucked in a breath. Edmund stood silhouetted in front of the stained glass window, colored light flickering around him. His head was bowed in prayer but he had not dropped to his knees. She recognized the pious act for just what it was—an act. Edmund cared little for God or for prayers. He cared only for himself and power and wealth.
She stepped carefully past the pews, her shoes tapping against the tiled floor and he turned when he heard her approach. Darting a look over her shoulder, she checked they were still alone before she spoke. “Why are you here?”
“Is that any way to greet your brother?” Edmund smirked, facing her fully and drawing himself up to his full height. He was quite a bit taller than she. Not as tall as James, but still strong and intimidating.
But Ellise was no longer a young girl and she would not be intimidated by him this time.
“You are no brother of mine. I was your brother’s wife, naught more. I have never considered you family.”
“I had thought you might be pleased to see me, Ellise. It has been many years since I’ve had word from you. I thought mayhap you had come to harm.”
“That would suit you well, would it not?” She fixed him with a glare.
“Nay, not at all. You forget I offered you protection once.” His flashed a grin at her.
It could almost be considered a handsome smile. Indeed his face was not unsightly. His short dark hair set off well-proportioned features but the malicious glint in his eyes always made him seem grotesque to her. Mayhap it was because she knew of his true nature. Unlike his brother, her late husband, who was mild mannered, if a little dull, Edmund had a temper and an arrogance to match.
“You did no such thing. You tried to force me to marry you. And what protection could you offer then when the biggest risk to me was you?”
“I was your overlord. And I had every right to decide whom you should marry. You should have agreed, Ellise. You would still be a wealthy woman if you had and be able to see your precious boy.”
“If I had survived long enough,” she spat. “You took everything from me, Edmund. My dowry, my child. What more could you possibly want with me? Do you come to taunt me?”
He released a disparaging laugh. “Nay, not at all. You may think all men bow to your will, my lady, but not I. ‘Tis a happy coincidence that I find you here. Indeed, I hope to talk your lord into supporting my cause.”
“What cause might that be? One that brings you much wealth and power no doubt, all the while taking from those who do not deserve such treatment.” Ellise allowed herself a bitter smile as angry heat swelled in her chest. “You will not persuade Lord Dominic to aid you. He is a good man and cares much for the welfare of others. Unlike you.”
Edmund plucked an invisible speck of dirt from his tunic and shook his head. “I care for the welfare of Thomas.” He released a sharp laugh. “Of course, you know him as Arias but I could not have a son with a Spanish name.”
Her stomach rolled at the mention of her son’s name, the ache that always resided in her heart grew stronger. She felt her normally positive spirits waning. She worked so hard to continue on, to focus on getting her son back, but seeing Edmund in front of her, so smug, so assured, it ate into her confidence. Would she really ever be able to hold Arias in her arms again?
“Do you not wish to know how my son fares?”
Ellise tilted her head as he came closer, their toes almost touching, but she stood her ground. She would not let him see her sorrow. “He is not your son and never will be.”
“He may as well be. As the only male heir to Wighthurst, he will continue on my legacy.”
“You are an impotent fool, Edmund. Everyone knows he is Richard’s.”
Edmund’s hand whipped out and she heard the crack before she felt it as he smacked the back of his hand across her cheek. She cried out, hand to her face as it throbbed but somehow she forced down her surprise and straightened.
“Little whore,” he hissed as she eyed him.
Chin raised, Ellise schooled her expression into one of cold dispassion. “Mayhap. But I will never be your whore. And I will get my son back, mark my words.”
She spun on her heels before he witnessed the tremble of her lips or the quake of her shoulders. It felt like fire surged under her skin, but was it from anger or fear? She was furious. How dare the man invade her place of solitude, the place she thought would help her out of her situation? She was so close to having enough money and when she did, all she needed to do was find a way to gain access to her son. But apprehension seized her heart. She didn’t know if Edmund was lying, but it was too much of a coincidence that he’d turned up while she was working at Thornewall. Word could have spread about the Lady Ellise who had a great knowledge of herbs. If anyone had described her, Edmund could have been sure it was her.
Whatever he had planned, she didn’t want to wait to find out. She needed to get Arias back and escape to Spain. Quickly.
Chapter Six
Clutching a basket of herbs, Ellise scurried across the outer ward to the courtyard. She had managed to avoid Edmund by spending most of the morning in the herb garden and now she hoped to evade him again by hiding in the kitchens as she prepared some lemon balm.
The basket dropped from her numb fingers and she gulped and froze. Santa Maria. The crash of a wooden sword on a shield jolted her as she gaped at the fighting men. At James, really. She bent to pick up the herbs and rose slowly, glancing around the courtyard to see if anyone had noticed her foolishness. She strolled leisurely along the edge of the bailey, flicking glances at James, unable to keep her gaze from him.
He fought with grace, his movements always carefully considered, but a great deal of aggression lay behind them, as if determined to win at any cost. Ellise battled the heat rising in her breast as she traced the lines of his chest. The day was hot, the summer sun beat onto the dry earth. All the men fought shirtless but none drew her attention as James did. He stood taller than most of them and was stronger. A pang of sympathy for his opponent struck her. She would not wish to be up against such an indomitable warrior.
His golden skin glistened under the sun, muscles undulated as he swung his sword at his enemy. Ellise sidled around toward the arched alleyway leading between the walls and paused in the shadows. The shade gave her no relief from the heat, but most of the heat came from within, came from watching James’ agile movements. He lunged forward and she caught sight of the determined expression on his face. All his focus was on his opponent.
It was the same focus with which he approached everything in life. Ellise let a smile slip across her lips. In some ways, she understood it. She felt the same determination to get her son back and create a new life for them. Unfortunately James proved quite the distraction. And who could blame her? Was there ever a more beautiful man?
“He always wins.”
Ellise jolted away from the wall and laughed in surprise as Lucy offered her a teasing grin. “Who, my lady?” she asked, knowing exactly of whom Lucy was speaking.
“Captain James.”
“That does not shock me.”
“He does not even hold back with Dominic. There are not many men who can beat him in a fight and even fewer who would be happy to show up their lord. Thankfully, Dominic does not take offense.”
“Nay, Lord Dominic is indeed blessed with a happy temperament but you are right, not many lords would be pleased to be bested by their vassals.”
“‘Tis fascinating to watch, is it not? These warriors doing what they do best.” Lucy’s lips quirked.
“Indeed.”
“And you watch most closely, Ellise.”
Her cheeks burned as she swung her gaze between Lucy and the fighting. “I... I admire the Captain's courage.”
“There is much to be admired about James, I think. A more dutiful man, I have never met. The woman who captures his heart will be a lucky woman indeed. I have hopes that he will find someone soon.”
“Aye. I suppose he will accept the offer of
the lady from the south before long.” Even she heard the solemn tone to her voice. Did Lucy?
“I know not. He has never shown any interest in marriage but has need of an heir. A man as dutiful as James will not be able to neglect such a duty for much longer.”
The thought of another woman garnering his affections made her chest constrict. Which was foolish. Why should she begrudge him happiness? It was not as if she could give him all he wanted. A wealthy wife with a good family, that’s what a man like James looked for. And all she wanted was her son and freedom from fear. She could not stand looking over her shoulder for much longer, forever worrying what the Earl had planned. Fearing he would decide that taking her son, her wealth, and her home was not enough.
James parried a swift swing from his opponent and knocked the lad’s feet out from under him. In the quickest of movements, he had the wooden blade at the throat of the soldier, who raised his hands in surrender. With a quick grin, James offered him a hand and helped him to his feet. The exertion and the heat made his skin shimmer. Ellise practically tasted the salty tang of his skin as she recalled his slick body beneath her fingers. As he patted the boy on the shoulder, he peered in her direction and his grin fell. His brow furrowed as he continued to stare, gaze locking onto hers. Her bodice grew tight and she tried to drag her gaze away but he held her captive. A man came up behind him and dragged his attention away. She blew out a breath as Lucy laughed next to her.
“It seems you’re not the only one to watch closely, Ellise. I do believe you may prove a distraction if you continue to observe.”
Ellise shook her head, struggling against the need to lower her head in embarrassment. “I do not believe anyone can distract the Captain from his duties. And certainly not a woman such as myself.”
Lucy made a sound of disapproval. “Nonsense. You are a fine beauty. Would that I had a figure like yours…”
“My lady, you are preg—”
“And you have far more wit than most. Some men are able to see past a one’s circumstances to the value within.”
“My lady, what are you saying?”
The Borderland Legacy Page 38