Thomas released a long breath he hadn’t known he’d been holding and continued walking, pretending her answer didn’t matter to him. Because it didn’t.
His mind drifted away until all he could hear was the crunch of the ground beneath his feet. Right now, back in Boston, some man was no doubt searching for the woman he loved. He must be worried about her—frantic. Any man would be.
Who was this . . . suitor? Did she miss him?
Lengthening his stride and pounding his feet a little harder than necessary, Thomas shook his head. He had no hold upon her heart and he didn’t want one. It was better that way.
Much better.
The sun relaxed low in the October sky, fashioning long skinny shadows as its caramel light bounced through the trees and across the quilt of red and gold hues that draped the surrounding hills.
After another day of ceaseless walking and another night suffering the elements, Eliza prayed with every painful step that they would reach their intended destination before her burning legs buckled beneath her. Thomas believed that the Redcoats would close in on them if they didn’t continue moving, so they journeyed as fast as their weary bodies would take them. The continuous scraping sensation against her heels made her hands shake and she promised her bleeding feet that once they reached Sandwich she would never walk again. For the rest of her blessed life.
As she trudged across the soggy ground, crunching leaves with every step, her thoughts somehow always found their way to the man at her side. And the man that wasn’t. Thomas and Samuel were similar to a degree. Both were handsome, strong in body and mind, and cared for those around them. Each held strong to their beliefs and were valiant in their respective causes.
Then again, the two men could not be more different.
She lifted her skirts to avoid a stagnant puddle and stepped around it. Still, she would like to believe they could be friends. After Samuel learned what Thomas had done in protecting them, how could they not be? But her conscience told her that despite their common interest in keeping her and Kitty safe, those two men would be enemies.
Eliza peeked at Thomas, who walked a few paces ahead with his cloak draping his broad shoulders, and her insides performed a pirouette. She had to put a hand
on her middle. She shouldn’t be thinking about him, studying the lines of his face when he wasn’t looking, memorizing the color of his hair and the shape of his smile. Not when Samuel waited on her answer.
But she couldn’t help it.
Such close proximity to undeniable masculinity and gentleman-like manners made it impossible to focus on anything else.
A grin teased her lips at the memory of the mysterious emotion that had flitted across Thomas’s face when she’d said she wasn’t engaged. What was it? Surprise? Amusement? Whatever it was, it vanished as soon as it appeared. What made her think he cared about such a thing? She and Kitty were nothing more than a responsibility to him. It would serve her well to remember that.
“Good news, weary travelers.” Thomas stopped and turned. “We are very near to Sandwich now—only about two miles. But before we make our way straight into town, I need to make sure it’s safe and that no Redcoats are there, already looking for us.”
“What would you have us do?” Eliza asked.
“I need you to wait here. I won’t be long. I promise to return before sundown.”
Kitty laughed and sat beneath a large oak, closing her eyes and resting her head against the trunk. “I’m more than happy to rest. My only concern is whether my legs will be able to move again once they’ve stopped.”
Both Eliza and Thomas chuckled and exchanged shy smiles.
His gaze pinned her feet to the ground. A nervous excitement bubbled in her chest and suddenly she didn’t know what to do with her hands. She looped them tight around her waist.
He came to her, standing closer than he ever had before. His eyes, pools of deep blue, roamed her face and Eliza’s lungs refused to function.
His low, honey-like voice melted around her. “Will you be all right while I’m gone?”
Eliza forced her lashes upward and her heart patted wildly against her ribs. The lines around Thomas’s caring eyes deepened, causing her legs to grow weak. Why did he have to be so kind?
“We’ll be just fine. Thank you, Mr. Watson.”
He lingered, still searching her face. The world around Eliza slowed as she lost herself in his nearness.
Without warning he moved away a step and looked around.
Eliza did the same, shaking her hands at her sides. How silly to get absorbed in such a moment. She must be more weary than she thought.
Looking around, Thomas gave instructions. “Stay in this spot until I get back. If for some reason you should need me, follow this path through the trees. It will lead you into town.”
Eliza nodded.
“Tell Kitty as well, before she sleeps, in case anything should happen.”
“I will. Don’t worry.” Eliza hoped he caught her reassuring tone, instead of her doubt. “We’ll be fine.”
He looked back at the trail before once again turning Eliza’s insides to mush with his penetrating stare. “I wish I didn’t have to leave you, but I can’t take any chances and lead you into danger. You’re sure you’ll be all right?”
Eliza nodded. “I promise.”
Thomas took long strides along the familiar path, trying to put the feathers in his stomach to rest. Eliza could cast quite a spell. The closer he got to town the harder he tried to focus on something—anything but her.
He chuckled. His good friend Doctor Nathaniel Smith would surely have a good laugh when he found out Thomas was now in charge of caring for two women. He’d prepared to provide only for himself. Now, at least for the near future, he had Eliza and Kitty to think about.
Eliza.
The memory of her gentle features and the song of her laugh formed a grin on his lips. Then another memory took the stage of his mind and he couldn’t stop his fists from forming. Who was the blackguard who had asked for her hand? Did he even love her? Did she love him? If she did, he was a fortunate fellow indeed.
Just as his foolish imaginations began to run away with him, he rounded the last corner and his home came into view. Checking around the outside and inside of the house to see that all was safe, Thomas exhaled a heavy sigh of relief. Before he went into town he walked through each room, inspecting it and making a quick inventory of all he had, and the things he may need now that he had two women to care for. They would at least require clothes of their own and whatever other mysterious items a woman’s needs demanded. Scratching the back of his neck, he huffed. He’d have to think of what to do about that ...
He took another moment and looked around him. Masculine pride welled like a rising sea. This was a good, solid home. One he crafted and filled with his own capable hands. The parlor was small, but nothing to scoff at. The large fireplace sat agape, ready to devour the pile of logs that was stacked behind the house. Upstairs were two fair sized rooms, each with a feather bed and a chest of drawers. What would Eliza think of—
He stopped and shook his head again, harder this time. Fool. She would think nothing of it compared to the fine home she’d lived in all her life—the home she would return to when this horror ended.
Thomas left and quickly made his way to town. Bustling markets, shops, and taverns dotted the street. Men and women milled about, paying him no attention whatsoever. His arms and hands relaxed somewhat and it was only then he realized his fists had been clenched.
Upon seeing no red uniforms, he ventured deeper into the small city, continually reminding himself that Eliza and Kitty should not be left alone any longer than absolutely necessary.
As he walked down the main street, a new mercantile shop beckoned him. He halted and peered through the window. How could he resist? His chest and shoulders buzzed with the urge to hurry, but he resisted. The women needed supplies. He strode in, intent on buying fabric for Eliza and her sister. T
ime was valuable, but he hoped this small offering would be well received. They would want to make themselves new dresses and it was the least he could do for all the trouble he’d caused them.
The proprietor helped him pick out all the items the girls would need for their craft, since Thomas had no idea about the tools a woman used for sewing.
“What fabrics would they fancy?” the stout old man asked from behind the counter.
Thomas ran his fingers through his hair and shrugged as he stared at the stack of various colors and patterns. A laugh bubbled through him. “I haven’t the slightest idea.”
“Well,” the man continued, winking over his spectacles. “May I suggest this lovely purple batwing or this soft blue floral? These fabrics seem to be popular with the ladies in town.”
Thomas nodded, his shoulders suddenly lighter. “I’ll take it.”
When he left the shop, the bundle of fabrics and accouterments under his arm, a familiar voice called to him from behind.
“Thomas! Greetings to you, my good friend!”
Thomas stopped and turned. A large smile warmed him from his face to his feet. “Nathaniel!”
The tall, broad-shouldered doctor met Thomas with friendly eyes, his suit immaculate as always. Nathaniel’s wide smile, brown hair, and chiseled features attracted countless women, but it was his indomitable personality that men and women alike admired and were constantly drawn to. He and Thomas shook hands before exchanging a hearty embrace.
Nathaniel Smith knew Thomas just as well as anyone. In fact, at times Thomas believed Nathaniel knew him better than Thomas even knew himself.
“I never received word that you were coming to town. What brings you back this way?” Nathaniel asked. “I hadn’t expected you for some time.” He raised one brow and his mouth tipped sideways as he glanced up and down Thomas’s clothes. “Have you been sleeping in the dirt, or did you just forget to change your clothes for a week?”
The attempt at humor couldn’t penetrate the thick anxiety covering Thomas’s usually amiable nature. He didn’t answer, only tightened his lips. Nathaniel was the only person he’d confided in about Martin’s blackmail, and his friend’s trust had been a source of strength and encouragement more than a few times.
Nathaniel stopped with a jerk, his eyes widening. “Something’s happened—I can see it in your face.” He lowered his voice and peered up and down the street. “Perhaps it would be wise for you to stay with me while we determine—”
“Things have changed slightly since we last talked,” Thomas said.
Nathaniel tilted his head. “Continue.”
“I’m already behind schedule as it is. I have only a few seconds to explain.” Thomas moved out of the street beside the mercantile. Nathaniel followed close behind.
“I’m not actually here alone.” Thomas motioned to the package under his arm. “I have two women traveling with me.”
“Really?” Nathaniel whispered back, raising the corners of his mouth and slapping his hand on Thomas’s shoulder. He looked at him, his white teeth shining through his smile. “I can’t wait to hear this. I have a feeling it’s going to be good.”
Chapter Nine
The two sisters lounged on the damp ground under a few gnarled oaks. Eliza’s legs throbbed as she massaged them, carefully avoiding her injured feet. She’d attend to them later.
Thomas left hours ago. The daylight had begun to fade, but still the sky was bright enough to illuminate their surroundings. She could only hope he would return before the light disappeared completely, forcing them to walk the last two miles in the dark.
“How will we know when it’s safe to go back home?” Kitty asked, her hands resting in her lap.
Eliza could hear the fear in Kitty’s voice and pumped strength into her own. “I don’t know. I’ve been wondering the same.” She paused and continued kneading her legs. “God will provide. He already has. I know He sent Mr. Watson to protect us. I’m going to try and send word to Samuel as soon as possible. I’m certain he’ll—”
Eliza stopped, the hairs on her arms standing rigid. Something rustled in the trees and bushes in front of them.
She looked at Kitty to see if she’d heard it too, but the relaxed appearance on her sister’s tired face told her she hadn’t. Thank the Lord.
“He’ll what, Liza?”
“Oh, nothing. I don’t even remember what I was saying. Not to worry, Kitty. Just rest.” Eliza focused on her breathing, attempting to calm the rapid beat of her heart.
They were being watched.
Every nerve in Eliza’s body jolted, making her stomach roll. She looked around, realizing the sky had darkened almost entirely now. The remaining light waved farewell at the edge of the faraway horizon. Night was upon them—and they were alone. An ominous feeling ballooned around her, thickening the air and making it hard for her to breathe.
The heavy, ragged footfall drew closer.
“Stand up.” Eliza whispered at Kitty.
“What is it?” she asked as Eliza pulled her to her feet.
Just then, two large men emerged from their covering in the bushes. They were sailors—not soldiers. And from the way they swayed on their feet it was obvious they were drunk.
Eliza pushed Kitty behind her, her protective instincts working at a zealous pace.
The taller of the two men inspected them, a lecherous smile crawling over his scruffy face, while the other looked around them.
Kitty clutched the back of Eliza’s cloak and moved closer.
“What are you two pretty ladies doing out here in the dark? You alone?” The tall one walked closer and sneered, chuckling.
“No.” Forgive me for lying, Lord. “Our brother will be back any moment.”
Her voice shook as much as her legs. She hoped they didn’t notice.
Kitty found Eliza’s hand. Gripping it with ferocious strength, she whispered into Eliza’s ear. “What do we do?”
“Pray.”
“What will they do to us?”
Eliza could only grip Kitty’s hand tighter, for answering such a question would make Kitty faint dead away.
The lanky sailor crept nearer. “Your brother is a fool to leave you out here, in the middle of a dark, scary forest all by yourselves.” He gave a dramatic frown, followed by a nauseating smile, exposing what few teeth were left in his mouth.
The second man closed in. “This must really be our lucky day, Roy.” His slurred speech oozed lasciviousness.
Roy chuckled. “It must be, Lee.” His voice was deep and his breath so foul Eliza had to bite her cheek to keep from gagging.
Her racing heartbeat drummed from her head to the ground beneath her feet. She knew what they wanted and the thought made the forest swirl.
Lee limped over to Kitty and yanked her from behind Eliza, then pet her arm up and down. The terrified look on Kitty’s face made tears burn in the back of Eliza’s eyes. I cannot fail her, Lord. I cannot fail her like I did Peter. Please help me.
“We’ve been needing some company.” Lee chuckled and glanced at Roy then turned his ugly face back to Kitty. “You’re not scared of two lonely old sailors like us, are you?”
Dear Lord, have mercy! Help me protect Kitty!
Eliza reached over and squeezed her sister’s arm, keeping her eyes on the criminals in front of them. Releasing her grip on Kitty, Eliza walked closer to them, smiling as enticingly as she knew how. Bile surged in her stomach and threatened to escape her throat but she willed it away.
“Should we be scared?” she answered, looking up at the tall sailor.
“Eliza, what are you—”
Eliza interrupted her sister with a brief warning glance over her shoulder.
“Not in the least, little lady.” Roy stepped forward, closing the last few inches that separated them. He slipped his lanky arm around her waist and pulled her to him. “You’re that kind, are you?” He sneered, then gave a low rumbling laugh.
The other man went toward Kitty who st
ood frozen, her face stark white.
“No!” Eliza cried, her voice betraying her cover. She prayed for composure and took a few deep breaths. “Not her. You can do what you like with me, but leave her alone.”
“There’s two of us and two of you. Why would we do that?” Roy asked, holding her tighter and moving his possessive hand down the side of her body.
The acrid odor of ale and the stench of urine from his clothes assaulted her. Eliza’s stomach lurched at the feel of his body near hers.
Summoning every ounce of quaking courage within her, she moved her hand up his chest and pouted. “Can’t we just have all the fun? I don’t feel like sharing.”
Water welled in her eyes. The only way to keep Kitty safe was to distract these sailors with herself. Anything to keep Kitty safe.
Eliza peered at Kitty. Her sister remained motionless, her eyes round and dripping tears.
“I don’t care if you don’t, Lee,” Roy said.
“I’d rather not have to fight to get what I want anyway.”
Eliza tasted acid in her mouth. She was sure she would retch at any moment. She pleaded with the Lord to send Thomas back right away—before her life changed forever.
Roy moved closer, sniffing her neck then letting out a long whistle. He bent down again and whispered in her ear. “I’m looking forward to this.”
Both men howled with delight.
Roy pushed her ahead of them. They walked a few paces into the darkness of the trees, talking of such vulgar things Eliza knew she would go to hell just from hearing them.
I only want to protect Kitty, Lord. And I am willing to suffer anything for her, but please, please don’t let them do this!
“You going stay here and wait until we’re through?” Lee stopped and laughed, turning to where Kitty had been.
She was gone.
Faster!
The feeling that had haunted him for the past several minutes now came with greater fervency. Hollowness settled in his gut and his leg muscles tensed.
So Fair a Lady (Daughters of His Kingdom Book 1) Page 9