by John Ryan
Giggling incessantly, she imbibed from an overflowing stein of ale. Surrounded by a throng of overly attentive ale-laden men vying for her attention, the young woman positioned herself with her shoulders dipped low. Conspicuously, she was keenly aware that her slumping posture afforded the men a better glimpse of her generous bosom, now peeking from her scandalously-dipped bodice.
A wry smile curled Thayer’s lips as he scoffed and quickly glanced away. Before he met Elspeth, such a wench could turn his head and warm his bed. Now, with Elspeth at his side, it was if no other woman in the world existed.
Elspeth queried, “M’love, are ye alright? Is there something that vexes ye?”
Curling his hands around Elspeth’s slender fingers, Thayer drew them to his lips. Kissing each individual finger gently, he peered into her shimmering eyes of emerald.
“Nae, m’love, I cannot tell ye just how right things are.”
Elspeth gently stroked Thayer’s cheek. After tracing a path downward along his jaw, she let her hand fall gracefully to her side. Apparently, she didn’t realize how dangerously close it lay next to Thayer’s leg.
Propriety be damned, Thayer mulled as he shuttered his eyes to relish the warmth of her gentle touch. His breath suddenly caught as he felt her hand brush his thigh yet again. As Elspeth’s lips drew into a pout that seemed to beg for a kiss, Thayer’s will was the only thing that prevented him from losing all semblance of aplomb. Though thoughts of ravishing every delectable inch of her luscious mouth invaded his mind and warmed his loins, he was brought back to reason by the presence of Lady Fiona who sat just on the other side of her daughter.
Blinking furiously to break the spell that her eyes held on him, Thayer leaned close to Elspeth. “M’love, I think mayhap we should move our seats just a little further apart.”
“Why, Thayer what’s the matt--”
Thayer tensed as she shimmied closer to him.
“I’m sorry, Thayer, but ye will just have to manage,” she added with a purr. A mischievous gleam shone in her eyes. “We dinna seem to have much room at this table, anyhoo.”
She is enjoying this! Thayer mused as he cast a knowing glance at her.
The twinkle in her eyes confirmed his suspicions.
Well, just wait until she is me wife. She’ll be enjoying a lot more. The delicious mental image heated his blood.
Desperate for a diversion and eternally grateful for the generous folds of his plaid, Thayer turned his attention to Lady Fiona. He immediately rued his decision when he looked upon the eyes that were the mirror image of her daughter’s.
As he chatted with Lady Fiona, he was distracted by Elspeth’s downward gaze. He shifted uncomfortably as her shoulders shook with her hidden giggle. She was clearly enjoying his discomfort. Elspeth pretended to cough, politely positioning her hand over her mouth.
Thayer’s musings were interrupted by the sound of Lady Fiona clearing her throat as she rose from her seat. Thayer eased her chair back to afford her room to stand. Lifting her goblet of wine aloft, Lady Fiona called for a moment of silence.
Sweeping her gaze over the joyful throng, she lauded, “I wish to propose a toast. First, to me beloved daughter, Elspeth. I thank the Almighty for bringing her home safely to me. And next, to Sir Thayer, for taking such good care of her on that journey. For that, I am eternally grateful and beholden.”
Beaming broadly, Elspeth clapped her hands, prompting the rest of the gathering to follow suit. Amid the joyous eruption, Thayer cast a loving glance upon her before facing Lady Fiona and cordially bowing his head in gratitude.
Elegantly acknowledging his gesture with a curtsy in return, Lady Fiona faced the gathering once more and threw up her hands triumphantly, inspiring the room to erupt into boisterous cheers of “Hail!”
Stein after stein was drained in celebration.
It would be the night of a thousand toasts. Toasts to Lady Fiona, toasts to Elspeth and Thayer, toasts to the Mourney clan--toasts to anything and everything that would them afford them cause to refill their steins. As the night wore thin, toasts were even made to toasting.
The hours passed by in a blur. The happy crowd, their bellies full of food and spirits and their hearts filled with love, began to quiet. By the blank looks of the heavily lidded revelers slouched in their seats, it was time to retire. One by one, the revelers took their leave of their host and stumbled merrily out of the dining chambers to return to their homes.
Lady Fiona bid farewell to each guest before harkening back to her table.
“Good night, Elspeth,” she whispered as she returned her attention to her daughter.
Elspeth didn’t respond. She lay propped against Thayer’s strapping arm, emitting petite, contented snores.
“I’ll see that she is safely restored to her chambers, Lady Fiona,” Thayer assured. “I see that she doesn’t have much tolerance for the ale.”
Sweetly nodding in assent, Lady Fiona concurred. “Mayhap that is the only way in which she does not take after her father. Now, I must see that the servants have finished readying your cottage. I suspect some are worse for the wine--but this night I am quite inclined to overlook that. Take good care of her, Thayer.”
With a nod, she was off.
“Forever,” Thayer murmured as he watched Lady Fiona glide out of the room and into the hall.
“Wake now, m’love,” Thayer implored softly as he tapped Elspeth’s shoulder.
Her eyes heavy with fatigue, she whispered, “Thayer, what time is it? How long have I been asleep?”
Tenderly brushing an errant crimson ringlet from her eyes, he said, “Ye have only been asleep for a short time, m’sweet. Come, we have a few moments afore my cottage is prepared. Let’s take a wee stroll. The cool night air will do us both good.”
Nodding, Elspeth groggily propped herself up in her chair by bracing herself against Thayer’s firm biceps. Patting her cheeks, she shook her head vigorously and raked her slender fingers through her tresses.
Smoothing the creases in her gown, Elspeth turned to Thayer and affirmed, “I’m ready,” before nearly tumbling onto the floor. Catching her in mid fall, Thayer drew her body close, propping her up against his broad chest. Leaning against him for support, Elspeth conceded with a smile, “Mayhap, I’m not quite as ready as I supposed.”
***
In the meantime, Lady Fiona had succeeded in mustering a handful of servants in the late hour. As she suspected, they were a tad addled, but all too happy to do their mistress’ bidding. Whistling as they toiled, they set about preparing Thayer’s quarters.
The cottage had laid unused for some months, and fresh linens and blankets were brought in and placed upon the modest, four-post bed. Snatching a sprig of heather from the dining area, a young servant girl dropped it in the empty vase on the kitchen table to add her personal touch to their chore. The fire was lit in the hearth and they set about the sweeping away the thin layer of dust which had settled about the room.
***
Thayer had escorted Elspeth onto the grounds for some much needed fresh air. The courtyard glowed dimly in the luminescence of the pale blue moon. As if by some heavenly command, the dark clouds parted, unveiling the smiling crescent.
With Thayer’s arm draped protectively around her waist, Elspeth veiled her eyes, relishing the warmth and security which now effused her entire being. The crisp night air was still. With some amusement, she watched the mist from their breath drifting ever so slowly away as they ambled along the meandering path through the garden.
As they neared the Manor, Thayer turned to Elspeth and, lacing his fingers in hers, murmured huskily, “Elspeth, on the morrow I shall send a rider to Lord Devlin bearing word of me proffer for your brother’s release. The following day, I ride to Dirleton Castle.”
“Thayer, what if Lord Devlin doesn’t accept your offer?”
Thayer cupped her chin in his immense hand and gently caressed her cheek. Much to Elspeth’s surprise, his eyes held a far-off look. Had h
e lost the hope that Graham and Faolin still lived?
“Dinna yield to fear, Elspeth,” Thayer soothed. “Whilst Devlin mulls our little bribe, our army will take up positions about the castle. He will be caught unawares, much as your family was. Further, as ye ken, Uncle John is desirous to join forces with your father. Your mother tells us that word has already been dispatched. In short time, your father will surely come for his son. Elspeth, I vow that your brother will not be left to languish in the tower. Through by words or by sword, he will be delivered.”
Elspeth stood on the tips of her toes. Shuttering her eyes, she offered her ripe ruby red lips to Thayer. Readily accepting her precious gift, he kissed her. Gently at first, his lips deftly plied hers. But his ardor would not be denied. His kisses grew more fervent.
Elspeth felt a heat rise within her chest as she savored each sweet taste of his sensuous, silken mouth. As his hungry lips consumed hers, Elspeth shuddered at the torrid wave of desire which coursed through her body. His firm body was fully pressed against her now, and she gasped as he slowly ground his loins against hers. She felt the swell of his manhood through his tartan, evidence of his fully awaken ardor. The searing heat warmed her, rendered her utterly oblivious to the chill of the autumn night. As Thayer delved his tongue deeper into Elspeth’s mouth, he ran his fingers through her tresses. She could feel his muscles stiffen as he pressed his body ever more tightly to hers. Elspeth suddenly withdrew, overwrought with a deep growing sense of dread. Thayer may not return from Dirleton. The thought sent her heart pounding in her chest. A deep sorrow took hold of her heart.
“M’love, what ails ye?” Thayer whispered as he seemed to study her eyes for any hint as to the source of her dismay.
“Thayer, I want ye to stay with me this night,” Elspeth implored softly.
Though he yearned to make love to her with every ounce of his being, Thayer saw fear, despair, and pain in Elspeth’s eyes. When they were to share a bed for the first time, he wanted to be sure that she would have no regrets, no second thoughts. There would never be another first time.
“Elspeth, m’love, we will lay together when your heart is at peace,” Thayer consoled as he peered deeply into her eyes. “I long for that day, the day ye become me wife.”With profound sadness, he whispered, “To be parted from ye this night is nigh more than I can bear.”
“Thayer, that day will be the happiest o’ me life,” she murmured.
Drawing his lips to hers, Thayer kissed her gently, murmuring, “Good night, my love.”
A pained sigh escaped Elspeth as she watched him pivot on his heels and head toward the cottage. His strides were heavy; her heart was heavier.
Elspeth stood alone in silence. A tear slipped loose and slid down her cheek. Dabbing at the errant tear, she watched as Thayer’s shape slowly melted into the misty shadows of the night.
“Almighty Father, please protect him on his journey. His heart is pure and I love him eternally. Please let him return to me.”
With a forlorn sigh, Elspeth unlatched the door to the Manor and quietly slipped inside.
Chapter Seventeen
The morning sun shone brilliantly in the lavender autumn sky, its thin silvery beams filtering through the delicate linen drapes of the Manor. Elspeth was still abed when a gentle rap came at the door.
“Who is it?” she inquired, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.
“Elspeth, ‘tis I,” Thayer said. “I am going to prepare the messengers with word of our offer. I will return within the hour.”
His pronouncement was followed by silence.
Knitting her brows, Elspeth tilted her head inquisitively.
Finally, a tentative request followed. “Ummm..I was wondering if I could steal a kiss this fine morn,” Thayer implored.
A sweet smile curved Elspeth’s lips as she pondered the modest mode of Thayer’s request. This, from a man whose reputation as a rake had so markedly preceded him!
“Thayer, I am still abed. Besides, I am quite the sight,” Elspeth replied as she cupped her hand over her mouth to stay an errant giggle.
“Elspeth, m’love. The sight of ye anytime ‘twould stir my soul,” Thayer declared warmly.
Though she sensed sincerity in his plea, Elspeth had to summon all of her composure to keep her laughter from bubbling forth. It was such a stark, sweet contrast to their first meeting.
Biting her lower lip, she said, “I’m afraid that your soul will have to wait, Thayer. Me face prefers to see your soul after I’ve had a chance to fix it.”
“Very well. I take my leave,” Thayer snorted. He clearly wasn’t used to hearing no from a woman.
Cupping her ear in the direction of the door, Elspeth could detect Thayer’s vexed grumbles as he strode off. As the sound of his steps became fainter, she whispered: “Besides, I’m not so sure ye would be so desirous to see me if ye knew what I have planned for ye.”
“Elspeth!” Lady Fiona barked as she swept onto the room from the rear door with a flourish, her flowing gunna lightly brushing the floor.
Startled, Elspeth whirled round, her eyes widening with surprise.
Wagging a crooked finger at her daughter, Lady Fiona exclaimed, “‘Tis nearly mid morn, child. Why the devil are ye still abed? And why are ye talking to yourself and giggling like a nonsensical arse?”
“Oh, top of the morning to ye, Mother,” Elspeth replied with a winsome smile. “I was just reflecting on me plan for Thayer.”
“What the devil are ye speaking of, Elspeth?” Lady Fiona questioned, lifting an inquisitively arched brow.
“Well, Mother, Thayer and I had a wager. I won and now I intend to collect me prize.”
Recognizing her mother’s quizzical look, she explained: “I proposed that I could best him in a round of sword play.” “Ye engaged in a sword fight with Sir Thayer?” Lady Fiona asked in a bemused tone.
“Dinna fret, Mother, we only wielded twigs. Withal, much to his chagrin, I bested him. Now, I intend to see that he holds to his word. Any man of honor would stay true to his word.”
“And what precisely was the wager, Elspeth?” Lady Fiona inquired as an amused grin crept across her lips.
“I proposed that I take the reins of Ethelion and he ride behind me upon the saddle. ‘Twould suit him to be on the arse-end of something for a change.”
Her shoulders shaking, Lady Fiona convulsed into a fit of hearty laughter.
“I wonder if ye merely seek revenge for his randy behavior upon your first meeting. I must agree, however, ‘twould be a fine sight to see! The mighty warrior astride the arse of his own horse!”
Between sniffles, Lady Fiona cautioned, “Are ye certain that Thayer will cede to your demand? He is, after all, a proud and feared warrior.”
“When he thought he was sure to best me, Mother, Thayer readily accepted the stake. Now, if he is the man of his word I believe him to be, he will surely honor the wager.”
“Well, if ye are to be a spectacle this day, let us at least choose appropriate attire for ye, Elspeth,” Lady Fiona said.
For the first time since the fall of Dirleton, Elspeth and her mother had shared a truly carefree private moment. The significance was not lost on either one of them.
Merrily casting open the door to the wardrobe, Lady Fiona paused to peruse the scantily filled shelves. As most of her daughter’s attire remained at Dirleton, Elspeth would have to suffice with the few of the garments Lady Fiona had managed to abscond from the castle.
Holding aloft a dainty gunna of brilliant safflower, Lady Fiona remarked, “This hue is sure to bring out the lovely green in your eyes.”
“Aye, but isn’t that your favorite gunna?”
“Aye, me favorite gunna for me favorite girl,” Lady Fiona proclaimed happily. “Wear it in good health.”
“Thank ye so much, Mother. It is truly lovely!” Elspeth exclaimed giddily as she tightly embraced her mother’s waist.
“Just heed my advice, Elspeth. If Thayer becomes disagreeable when y
e ask him to honor his wager, don’t push the issue too hard.”
“Dinna worry, Mother. I merely desire to see the look upon his face when he mounts the rear of the saddle. Actually, I don’t have any desire to ride that way. ‘Tis quite uncomfortable. Nevertheless, I promise we will not stray far from the burgh. From what I saw during our journey, I ken Lord Devlin has dispatched other patrols to search for me.”
Lady Fiona nodded in mute acquiescence and the two stood in silence, admiring her choice. The mirthful hour she shared with her mother seemed to have passed in an instant.
***
A sharp rap upon the door was followed by Thayer’s bequest. “Elspeth, are ye proper? I’ve sent forth the riders. The rest of the day is ours.”
With a loving peck upon her daughter’s cheek, Lady Fiona took her leave and slipped out through the back door. Stepping into the hall, she glanced over her shoulder at Elspeth. She was so thankful for her daughter’s felicity, however fleeting it might prove to be. Also, she was most delighted with her daughter’s pleasure for Thayer’s high regard. He was a most suiting match. Verily, the young knight even reminded her of her own husband. His loving regard for her daughter, his fealty, sense of honor, bravery, even the familiar rich, husky baritone all were reminiscent of her loving husband. Unintentional as it was, Thayer’s presence also served to heighten her despair and deepen her sense of loneliness.
Summoning a wisp of a smile, Lady Fiona’s thoughts drifted to the moment she had learned that her husband had survived the battle of Sterling. Though she longed to gaze upon his face and share his embrace, she had drawn fathomless solace from the message delivered by the knights who fought by his side.
“He is hale and hearty,” they had soothed. “He will render to Lothian as soon as he has recovered fully.”
“Recovered?” she had probed indignantly. “Didn’t ye just say that he was hale and hearty?”
Together, the knights’ faces had drained of color. Their wan cheeks evidenced the rue they suffered at their err.
“‘Tis only a minor wound he endured,” they reassured in unison. “’Twill surely fully heal within a fortnight.”