When Sarra arrived at the keep free from pursuit, breathing became a little easier. She walked through the doors and spotted a servant. The first thing she did was ask for a tub filled with hot water to be sent directly to her chambers. While said task was under way, she sought out Charism. Her intentions were to tell her friend about the experiences in the lists but Charism spoke first.
“Ye look different. Are ye all right?”
“Aye, Charism. I’ll be fine. What I need is a long, hot bath and an even longer nap.” Sarra offered a look she hoped was reassuring.
Charism’s beady eyes narrowed, but Sarra walked away as if she hadn’t noticed. So she had told the old lady a partial truth. Sarra didn’t necessarily look different, but she did feel different.
Hoping the bath would be prepared, Sarra headed to her chambers. She needed time to herself, time for prayer. And bath time always sufficed. It was the one time no one bothered her. Besides, the hot water should relieve the pain in her throbbing ankle. At least Sarra hoped it would.
In Sarra’s room, she found a tub filled with hot water sitting in front of a roaring fire. She locked the door, stripped quickly, and eased herself into the steamy goodness.
Lying there enjoying the heat on tired muscles, she grabbed the rose-scented soap and lathered, scrubbing away the day’s grime and stench from her flesh. The silky feel of the water teased her raw skin. As she lay back in the water, she reflected on her life. She had been able to keep the suitors at bay for so long, she’d never contemplated what it might be like to marry.
Thinking about marriage led to thoughts of Cedric MacNeil. He was large and daunting in appearance, but gentle and caring in action. What would it be like to marry someone like him? Someone big enough to scare any foe away with a look? A man large enough to wield a sword in defense of family? Someone to protect not only the mistress, but the keep as well?
She washed her hair with the soap and then lay down in the tub to rinse it more thoroughly. When she rose from the water, her stomach emitted a growl. She’d missed supper.
She dressed with haste, choosing a dark blue gown. Attempting to free her mind of all thoughts concerning men, she slipped into a comfortable pair of shoes and walked toward the kitchen. It was past time to fill her stomach, and in doing so she hoped it filled her mind with thoughts far away from the man who called himself Cedric.
****
The next day, when Sarra awoke her ankle felt remarkably better. Hurrying to the stables, she saddled a gentle mare named Sadie and went for a ride. The better part of an hour was spent riding around the castle walls, enjoying the sunshine warming her face and lightening her spirits.
She loved the safety of the castle, but sometimes she enjoyed looking at the vastness which lay beyond the walls. It served as a reminder of God’s abilities to create something of beauty.
She heard the soft sound of hooves. Sighing, she realized she was not alone. Sir Henry would never permit her to travel outside the walls without armed escort. The moment of solitude passed. A list of responsibilities flooded her mind. Since the knights were taken from their duties to protect her, she maneuvered the horse around and headed back to the keep.
When she reached the stables, she dismounted and handed the reins to James, the stable boy. The mount had worked up quite a lather on their ride, and she instructed James to give Sadie a good rub down. Although the ride had come to an end, she wasn’t quite in the mood to head back to her rooms just yet.
Looking down at her riding habit, she headed for the lists. The enclosed area where the knights practiced would, if nothing else, offer a bit of a distraction.
The lists were crowded with knights of all ages and abilities working on various skills. Children played games together on the outskirts and watched the sword play of the more experienced. The kids squealed as a dog ran around.
With no provocation, the children set out on a merry chase. Their faces were alight with excitement and wonder. They exuded freedom. An urge to join them surged through Sarra.
Not holding back, her feet moved, and before she was aware of her actions, she was running after the mutt as well. There was enjoyment in the feel of the wind flowing through her hair and whipping by her face. A certain amount of freedom was felt in the unplanned movement. Although the bugs that flew in her teeth left a lot to be desired.
Breath came from her lungs in loud rasping gasps. It wasn’t easy to run in skirts. The fabric wrapped around her moving legs, threatening to trip her with every step.
But she continued chasing the dog with the children nonetheless. A giggle escaped her throat. They were having such a good time, no one in the group noticed they were no longer alone. First came some of the squires, then some of the older knights, and before they knew it, all the inhabitants in the lists had joined in as they chased the animal. Laughter welled up until her insides threatened to burst.
As she careened around the corner and began to sprint down the long side of the open area, she noticed Cedric MacNeil watching her. He leaned against a bench, his eyes never leaving her.
Braver than normal, she waved while passing. Her sides ached and her legs burned with exertion as she made one more pass around and collapsed in a heap onto the only seat in the area.
A bench right beside Cedric.
“Hullo, Cedric MacNeil.”
“Hullo, Sarra.”
Sarra’s heart fluttered at the mention of her name. How was it this stranger held such power over her? Ignoring the extra beats of her heart, she said, “I see you’ve decided to stay on at Greenbriar.”
“Aye. I have. Very friendly people here.”
“You’re right.”
As she settled herself, moving skirts underneath her in a more comfortable position, she tried to think of something else to say.
She was saved when he asked, “Do ye do that frequently?”
Struggling to catch her breath, she replied, “Do what?”
“Run.”
“Whenever I can, yes.”
“Why?” Cedric asked curiously.
“Why not?” she answered with a smile.
“Why would ye run around with the children? Surely most Englishmen view it as unladylike.”
Sarra worked to find an answer. Before her mind could halt her tongue, she said, “If Englishmen believe it is unladylike, what do Scotsmen believe?”
Cedric’s eyes narrowed, studying the rambunctious children, and tapped one finger against his temple before he answered her question. “Well, a Scotsman thinks it is a useful skill.”
“Indeed. Care to explain?”
“Well, let’s see. I think running comes in a mite handy when ye need to retreat or when ye need to get away from something which scares ye.”
“I find it hard to believe you would do either of those things.”
Cedric’s eyebrow rose and Sarra realized her forwardness. What was it about this man that made her tongue flap with every thought which entered her mind?
“I don’t believe I understand ye, lass.”
Wiggling with discomfort, she said, “I mean, I can’t see you retreating from a foe, neither can I see a man of your stature being afraid of much.”
“Aye, ye are right. I retreat from very few things. But I might run if I was scared.”
“Now what could possibly scare someone like you?”
“Someone like me?” He pointed a finger at his massive chest.
“Aye. A man who carries a six-foot sword on his back like it’s a dagger. A man with legs so big they look like they could squeeze someone in two. What could possible scare you enough to send you away? And please do not patronize me. It will do you no good. Because I won’t believe you.”
“Ye won’t? Only met me twice and already can’t trust me. Doesn’t show much for me character. But just so ye will believe me, I’ll tell ye what I fear.”
“What is that?”
“I fear heads that float in a garderobe.”
A shiver ran along Sarra
’s spine. Her breath came in short gasps. Cedric leaned over and slapped her on the back.
“Are ye all right, lass?”
“I’ll be fine,” Sarra stuttered. “I need to go inside now. It was nice to see you again.”
“Aye. Ye as well.”
Sarra headed back to the keep, thinking she heard a soft snicker come from Cedric’s direction.
Chapter Seven
Sarra went back to the keep. Inside the study she found a chair and sat down. Her fingers were tapping out a rhythm upon the arm when Charism came in.
“Ye sent for me?”
“Aye, I did,” a sigh escaped, as Sarra spoke, “Charism, something is wrong.”
Charism sat. “Aye?”
Sarra shared what Cedric had told her in the lists, expressing her concerns aloud. “How could this stranger possibly have known about the head?”
“Mayhap he doesn’t know. He might have heard about it somewhere and thought the sight of such would scare him,” said Charism.
“No, I tell you. He knows something.”
“Does it matter if he does? From what you’ve said, the young man is a commoner who has come to the keep. Do ye know why he is here?”
“Nay.”
“Did ye ask him?”
“Of course not. What possible reason would I have to ask him such questions?”
“Ye are the mistress. Ye have a right to know who is in yer keep and for what purpose.”
“Aye. That’s true. But he doesn’t know I’m…”
“Ye didn’t tell him? Why not? Who does he think ye are?”
“All he knows is my name is Sarra.”
“I see.”
“What am I going to do?”
“Ignore it.”
“But—“
“Tell Sir Henry to have him watched or tell the man the truth. There is nothin’ else ye can do,” stated Charism matter-of-factly.
“But what if—”
“Sarra, ye have to give up and let God help ye. I know ye don’t like the idea of His Lordship the King choosing ye a husband, but what if God picked ye a man? Would ye be willing to accept His choice?”
“What are you saying?”
“I’m sayin’ ye do what ye need to do. But remember honesty is always the best way to go. Tell this man who ye are and maybe he’ll tell ye who he is.”
The rest of the day, Sarra thought on Charism’s words. The elderly woman was full of wisdom. And almost always right. Sarra needed to pray, pick a course of action, and carry it out.
Walking through the village, Sarra felt a renewing of purpose. Her plan was to find Cedric MacNeil and discover exactly why he was in Greenbriar. Even if she had to ask him directly.
****
A piece of wood rested in his hands. The wood took shape as Cedric shaved and carved. As a place to work, Cedric had settled himself on a large rock outside the keep walls. The rock was in plain sight of the estate and offered a certain amount of privacy.
In his own keep, to leave his back exposed could lead to death. His family could not be trusted. If his demise benefitted them, it would be done. But here he felt safe. No one in Greenbriar knew who he was beyond his name. They had no reason to want him dead. Yet.
Cedric felt a presence long before a noise was heard. Quickly tucking the carving into his sporran, he waited patiently for the intruder to make himself known. A twig snapped behind him. He resisted the urge to pick up his sword in a defensive posture and instead slowly turned to face his visitor, a scowl on his face.
Fear lit Sarra’s eyes. She appeared ready to run back to the keep and bolt herself within. Her throat moved as the young lass swallowed back her fear. Instead of running, she surprised him by thrusting a heavy basket toward him. “I thought you might be hungry.”
Cedric jumped off the boulder and took the basket from her weighted arms.
“Thank you.”
“Where would ye like to set the food?”
“Doesn’t matter, any spot will suffice.”
Cedric picked a place in front of the huge rock. In his opinion, this gave them a rest for their backs and a break from prying eyes. He took the quilt stuffed in the basket and spread it upon the ground. While Sarra settled herself, Cedric relieved the basket of its contents. Always vigilant, he spotted movement in the trees. Several knights stood in the bushes. So the village lass wasn’t alone. Why would knights be following the maid? Perhaps she was in some sort of trouble?
Ignoring their uninvited companions, Cedric continued with his tasks. Inside the basket was a block of cheese, black bread, a couple of legs of mutton, and a jug of ale with two goblets.
Cedric poured them both a goblet and handed one to Sarra. She picked up a loaf of the fresh-made bread and searched the basket until she found what she sought. Breaking it in half, she slathered each side with the butter, and handed Cedric a piece.
They ate in silence. Sarra seemed like she wanted to say something. Instead of allowing her to speak first Cedric said, “To what do I owe this pleasure?”
Sarra wiped her mouth clean before answering. “I thought since you were new to the keep, you might not be eating well. I had some leftovers and thought I would share.”
“These are yer leftovers? Who are ye feeding at ye house? An army?”
Sarra’s avoided his question by asking one of her own. “Do you like the food?”
“Aye, I do. Thank ye kindly.”
“What were you doing when I walked up?”
“Nothing important.”
“Oh.” Cedric sensed hesitation. Then Sarra asked, “Do you mind if I ask why you’ve come to Greenbriar?”
“Aye, ye may ask.”
Confusion knit her brow as he failed to continue with an answer. Sarra’s expression was one of frustration when she spoke. “Well, I’m asking. Why have you come to Greenbriar?”
“I’ve come for land,” he blurted.
“Land?”
“Aye.”
Sarra appeared uncomfortable. When she spoke again it was with an uncertain voice. “I don’t understand. As far as I know there is no available land anywhere near here.”
“Aye, that’s true.”
“Oh, this must be a stop along the way. I’m sure while you are here the mistress would want you to enjoy the fruits of Greenbriar’s labor.”
“I fully intend to, lass,” Cedric said, with a smile spreading across his face. Sarra shifted around as his eyes started at her toes and roved all the way up, stopping at her face.
The rest of the meal was completed in silence. When they were finished Cedric gathered the food and placed it back in the basket. Side by side they headed back to the keep. They walked through the gate and Cedric handed her the large container. Their fingers brushed across each other in an innocent gesture, but Cedric’s pulse raged. He jerked his hand away quickly, not wishing her to see the reaction she’d caused.
Turning his face away, he said, “Thank ye for the fine meal.”
“You’re welcome.”
“Maybe I’ll see ye around the keep again sometime,” Cedric added with hope in his voice.
“Perhaps.”
“Tell the mistress of the Greenbriar I appreciate the food.”
“What?” asked Sarra.
“Ye are headed to the keep’s kitchen,” stated Cedric.
“Aye. I was.”
“Are ye the mistress’ maid?” he asked, noticing how the lass seemed thrown off guard.
“The mistress’ maid?”
“Aye. Tell her thanks for the food and the welcome. If all yer strangers receive the same type of treatment, I can see why no one would want to leave.”
“Oh, aye. Of course. I’ll be sure to tell her.”
Cedric bowed in Sarra’s direction, turned on his heel and left. The heat of her lingering stare was felt all the way across the yard.
Chapter Eight
In the afternoon, Sarra changed clothes and headed for the main hall. The dinner table was full upon her
arrival. She took her seat at the head, and gazed around at the others in attendance. The two housemaids, Ella and Shelly, sat along one side of the table. Opposite them were Sir Henry and the keep knights. Charism took the seat next to her.
Cook walked around the large table making sure the food was all in place. Sarra couldn’t help but smile. She felt blessed just to share her bounty with others.
When he finished, Cook took his own seat. Sarra said, “Cook, would you mind saying grace tonight?”
Cook nodded and began. Once he’d finished, Sarra watched as the others served themselves from the heaping platters of food. This brought back memories of the lunch consumed earlier in the day. Cedric had made sure she was served first, even waiting until her first bite was taken before he touched his own food.
Looking at the crowd of people sitting around her, all of them from a different station of life, she was struck with loneliness. How was it possible to be surrounded by people yet feel completely alone?
Her mind wandered back to the way she felt earlier. Even in their silence she had felt at peace. Cedric was an unusual person. Huge in appearance yet soft spoken, thoughtful, gentle. When asked why he was visiting Greenbriar, his answer was startling. The more the conversation came to mind the more she realized he’d never explained what land he was after.
As she took a bite of the fresh bread, a thought crossed her mind. Could he be after Greenbriar? Why Cedric might be inside to scout out the keep and its weaknesses? Could a group of men be waiting in the wings to attack? How stupid she’d been! She had walked right into his trap! The perpetrator of this plan knew exactly how to affect her. Send in a handsome man and have him pay her the least bit of attention and she would fall right into his arms.
As soon as the afternoon meal was complete, she would need to speak with Sir Henry. The countryside needed to be combed to make sure no one was set to attack. They would need to be more observant. She wouldn’t sleep easy until Cedric MacNeil was gone from her keep and her life.
There Your Heart Will Be Also Page 4