by Kara Griffin
He stepped close and took her hand. “If I didn’t care I wouldn’t have searched for you for the last hour.”
“Ah, so you admit you only realized in the last hour I was missing. Why haven’t I seen you all day?” Katriona grimaced. Hadn’t she promised Mali she wouldn’t be sarcastic? There she was letting her tongue lash out without giving thought to her words.
He crouched next to her and his face somber. “There were things I had to tend. I told you, Katy, I am a busy man. There are many serious matters to…”
“You could’ve at least eaten with me this morn.” Why did she have to sound so sorrowful?
“I left you to rest.”
Katriona wanted to remain composed, but his words relieved her. He wanted her to get more rest. Perhaps he did care. And then she realized he must’ve been handling the recent killings within the kingdom. Here she was bringing him to task when he had such distressing matters to resolve. She needed to be selfless and understanding and vowed to be so from that moment on.
“What have you been about today?” He sat next to her, his thigh brushed hers.
Rhyder soothed her with his touch when he linked his hand with hers. A peaceful aura washed over her. Yet she continued to be plagued by the deep sorrow embedded in his heart. Some tremendous misery affected him. She wished he would speak of it. Until he knew her better, he wouldn’t declare his concerns.
“You’re quiet, sweet lass. Has something happened? All have treated you well?”
She wanted to ask him why he was discontent, but until she knew him better, she couldn’t divulge her gift. In these times, people with remarkable skills were often shunned by the church. Would he condone her if she admitted her gentile spirit? If Rhyder was extremely devout, admitting such gifts might be dangerous for them both.
“Nothing to remark upon.” Yet that was untrue. She should speak of his sister’s rudeness and the offensive way his commander acted in the hall earlier. Rhyder was a busy man though. She had to keep that in mind and handle the situations on her own. He had enough to worry about without her adding to his problems.
“Night will fall soon. Come and let us return.” He rose and helped her stand.
Katriona tilted her face and he drew nearer. His mouth moved close to hers. She thought he might kiss her, but he turned and clicked his tongue for Wynn to follow. Never in her life had she wanted anything as much as she wanted that kiss.
Her traitorous dog walked gaily beside her husband. Wynn’s approval of Rhyder gave her renewed acceptance of him. Wynn was a good judge of character and if he held affection for her husband then she should as well.
When they reached the hall, Rhyder stopped and released her hand. “I have things to do and you’ve kept me from my duties long enough. Have your supper. I will see you tonight.” He left without another word.
Katriona sighed forlornly and sat at the empty trestle table. Her stomach rumbled and reminded her that she hadn’t eaten since earlier in the day. Eating supper with his sister was bound to cause her appetite to flee. And she prayed his commander wouldn’t dine with them. Until she befriended both of them, meals would be uncomfortable. Life itself would be intolerable until she found a way to fit in.
Chapter SIX
Once his wife found her place within his kingdom, he wouldn’t have to worry about her. On his way to his chamber, Rhyder ruminated over his discussion with Katy. Though she hadn’t said something bothered her, he suspected she was troubled. With the recent killings in the hamlet, his protection of her gave him unease. She didn’t understand her position put her in a tedious place. If someone wanted to hurt him, they likely could do so through her. He didn’t like that thought one bit.
Sawyer waited by his door, leaning against the wall. “I’m ready to give my nightly report, Your Grace.”
“You’re late. I expected you over an hour ago. This makes three nights in a row I’ve awaited you. Where’ve you been?”
His commander shrugged a shoulder. “Training with the men, as usual. I suppose I lost track of time, Your Grace.”
“I sent several men in search of you. They reported you were not on the training fields.” Rhyder scrutinized his comrade for truth in his words.
“They must be blind then for I spent the entire afternoon there and bathed afterward.” Sawyer scowled and tilted his chin. “Perhaps it was then they searched for me.”
Rhyder entered and bid him to follow. He sat back and awaited his commander’s lengthy account of the day’s events. Sawyer’s reports were always the same. He wondered if his friend hadn’t memorized them. Each evening he informed him of the progress of the soldiers, the morale of the hamlet, and the status of the new longhouse he’d commissioned.
“They’re about halfway to completion on your house. Only a few injuries to report and no men needed to be replaced. Your new home should be completed soon, within a fortnight barring any unforeseen circumstances.”
Rhyder nodded and decided to hold his questions until the next report. When he asked to have a longhouse built, he did so to gain privacy. The house he lived in now better suited his soldiers and was too large. When his father and mother occupied the dwelling, they’d invited the high-ranking soldiers and their families to live with them. Rhyder wanted more privacy and solitude. He also didn’t want his soldiers involved in decision making. He had enough trouble with the elders who made their position known on too many issues as it was.
He also wanted to surprise Katy with a home of her own. Hopeful such a gift would bring them closer together or give them time alone. In recent years, he’d guarded himself. He’d been somewhat reclusive since his parents’ deaths. That would need to change if he intended on having a family with Katy. Thinking of her reminded him of his intent to protect her.
“Go and take your supper. Before you do, send Lloyd to me.” Rhyder dismissed him and took a quill in hand to finish the missive he’d begun earlier.
Sawyer turned abruptly and leaned on the table. “Lloyd, Your Grace? What has he done? I will handle his punishment if you wish.”
“He’s done nothing. I have a task for him. See that he comes before supper is served.”
“I am happy to carry out the task. What do you need?”
Rhyder shook his head. “Nay, it’s something I want Lloyd to handle and concerns a personal matter. Your duties need attending to.”
“When have you ever not told me of your matters, Your Grace? If I can help—”
He took a deep breath and tried not to sound annoyed with his friend. “I want you to focus on the soldiers, see to their training, and the protection of our hamlet. Your time is better spent trying to find the murderous knave that is killing our men. Besides, this matter doesn’t concern you, Sawyer. See Lloyd comes to me immediately.”
Sawyer appeared crestfallen but nodded. “Why the urgency to prepare the soldiers? Have you knowledge of a threat? If so, you should’ve told me.”
Rhyder tried not to assert his concern in his answer, “There’s no threat as yet. I like to be prepared. With the warmer weather upon us, it is the right time for the men to exercise war tactics. There are many young soldiers coming into the ranks. Best make them ready. Be sure to find Lloyd.”
His friend dipped his chin. “Aye, I’ll send him along then. Will you eat with us this night?”
“I invited Greyor’s parents and the families of the men killed recently. I want to assure them we will find the person responsible for the heinous killings of their sons.”
“Do you deem it wise, Your Grace? What if we don’t find whoever did the killings?” Sawyer’s eyes cast downward.
“We won’t cease until he is found.”
Sawyer gave a firm nod and straightened, releasing his hands from the table. “And Shrisy? What of your concern for her?”
“I will go on the morrow and search the caves. You may come along if you want. I don’t expect to be long on the quest.”
“As you wish, Your Grace.” Sawyer bowed, turned, a
nd left.
Rhyder sighed heavily at his discussion with his friend. For the past few months, he tried to give Sawyer more responsibility and command of the soldiers. The duty gave his comrade authority and it should have been done long ago. Sawyer never complained and always supported him. The least he could do was to give him credibility. He’d have to make an official announcement. With all that he’d faced since his father’s death, the moment never arose to do so until now. Why had he held back?
And now with his friend’s odd behavior of late, being late for his reports, going missing throughout the day… He wasn’t certain he was making the best decision to endorse Sawyer as leader of the soldiers. For now, he would disregard his misgivings. Until Sawyer did something to earn the discredit, he wanted to reward his service. The elders would probably take insult to his comrade’s promotion, but he wouldn’t let their disgruntlement stop him from doing what was right.
Rhyder sat back and awaited Lloyd. He thought about the families eating in the great hall this eve. He needed to reassure them everything was being done to avenge their sons. A knock came, shifting his thoughts, and he called ‘enter.’
“You asked to see me, Your Grace?” Lloyd marched forward and stood erect, awaiting his command. The soldier was fit, strong, and one of his most loyal men.
“Aye, my thanks for coming, Lloyd. I have an important task for you.”
“Anything, Your Grace. Whatever you need of me, I am honored.”
“As you know, I recently wed. I’m in need of someone to watch over my wife when I’m unable to be with her…when I’m busy. You will follow her, stand outside her chamber door, be her shadow.”
“Is she in danger?” A look of alarm crossed Lloyd’s face.
“No, but with the killings of late, I don’t want her unattended. And she’s acted strangely this day. I want to know who she comes in contact with and what she does. None are to know about this but you and me.”
“What if she asks…?”
“You may tell her, but no other. Say it is for her safety. Have you eaten?” Rhyder stood and rounded his desk.
“Nay, Your Grace, I was going to visit my mother and eat there.”
“Come and join us. Your duty will begin in the morning. Be here early for I’m not sure what time my wife rises.”
“I will protect her with my life, Your Grace.”
“I know you will and have faith in your ability.” Rhyder trusted he’d do so, and with Lloyd watching out for Katy, he needn’t worry when the kingdom’s matters kept him from her.
Lloyd followed him to the hall. Rhyder motioned for him to join the table where several of his loyal men sat. Various tables filled with his soldiers and the benches crowded. The great hall filled to capacity and gave him unease. He didn’t like the crowd or noise, and until he moved to a smaller home, he’d have to contend with his discomfort.
Before he took his place at the head of the long table, he noticed Katy seated at the far end, away from the warm fire. That wouldn’t do. She kept her gaze on the table and hadn’t noticed him.
Merrion approached and rambled on about what was being served. He paid little attention to her and silenced her by holding up his hand. “Tell me why my wife is seated far from the hearth?” He was about to add ‘and me’ but refrained.
“I didn’t realize the error, Your Grace,” Merrion said. “Shall I move her?”
“Aye, at once, and in the future, she is to be seated to my right nearest to the hearth. I will not have her disrespected, Merrion.”
“Of course not, Your Grace.” She hastened to remedy her mistake.
A matching chair was placed next to his, and Katy approached. Lord, she looked winsome and yet a little forlorn. He leaned close and nudged her shoulder with his in greeting.
“You’re eating in the hall.” She kept her eyes on his but didn’t smile.
“Aye, does that please you?” he asked, and smiled hoping to win her approval.
“It does,” she said and beamed, her cheeks brightening. “My thanks for moving my place. It’s much warmer here, near the fire.”
“Your place is next to me.”
She filled his cup with ale and smiled. “So it is.”
He took the cup and reveled at the touch of her hand. She enchanted him and if he had to admit he was a wee bit enamored, he likely would. “Where’s Wynn? I noticed he’s not here causing mischief.”
“I left him in my chamber. He can be a handful, especially at supper.”
Rhyder picked at his trencher and found he wasn’t hungry. His wife though ate her full. She finished her food, and he offered his trencher.
“If you’re not going to eat it. We shouldn’t waste food.” She pushed her tray away and started in on his, picking small pieces of cheese.
He grinned at her enthusiasm. Sitting back, he watched those around him. He was glad he’d assigned Lloyd to guard Katy especially if she didn’t keep Wynn with her at all times. Telling her to do so would only raise her concern and distress.
“Are there usually this many people here for supper?”
“Aye, I suppose so.” He thought her question strange given she’d eaten in his hall before. Hell if he knew though because he rarely ate meals in the hall. She didn’t press him for more of an answer. Rhyder finished the meal and pushed back his chair.
“Are you leaving, my lord?” she said softly so no one else heard.
“Not yet.” He turned to face his followers and called their attention by raising his hand. “I asked many of you to join me this night because I too mourn your loss, the loss of our sons and soldiers. We will find this murderous knave and make him pay.” his voice hardened with each word.
Shouts of agreement rose.
He quieted them with a nod. “I ask for your patience but also bid you be watchful. Anyone acting oddly should be reported to Sawyer. My good friend is second-in-command and from this day forward will be charged with our kingdom’s defenses and training our army. Sawyer,” he called and waved a hand at him. “Rise. I will select your right-hand men, those you will trust as I trust you. Ensure our kingdom is protected and our army strong enough to defeat any foe. Say you accept this noble position and swear you will uphold the honor.”
His friend appeared taken aback. “Aye, Your Grace, I accept. The honor is mine.”
Nods came from his followers except the elders who sent glares his way.
“We won’t cease our search until we find the knave who killed our lads. We stand together against this atrocity. Sawyer will lead our efforts.” He sat back in his chair and the voices of his clan dissipated.
The revelry continued and those sitting closest to Sawyer raised their cups in glee. It was right they celebrate his commander’s new position, well, not new, but revered. On the morrow, he would hear the elder’s rebuke of his choice, but to appease them, he’d allow them to suggest Sawyer’s right-hand men.
“That must’ve been difficult for you, my lord, to broach such a terrible subject as the murders of your clansmen. You must trust Sawyer to bestow such an honor on him.”
He took Katy’s hand and nodded. “Aye, I trust him with my life. We’ve been friends since we learned to walk. He was raised as my cousin, but we’re more akin to brothers. What I said was needed and I meant every word. Are you finished eating?”
“Aye, I bid you a good night. I shall go to my chamber.” She rose from her seat and curtseyed, but he grasped her hand.
“Nay, you’ll come to mine.”
She nodded and left the great hall. Rhyder returned his attention to the table and watched Sawyer in a quiet discussion with Lloyd. The soldier shook his head and hastily left. Then Rhyder focused on his sister. The woman laughed merrily with those seated nearby. He couldn’t discern the topic of conversation, but he noticed Merrion commanded attention. For all the sacrifices she’d made in keeping his home, he decided she deserved a little happiness. He’d been remiss in rewarding those closest to him of late.
The
discussion with Merrion would need to be postponed because Katy awaited him. Rhyder was anxious to be alone with Katy again. He left the hall and quickly reached his chamber.
Once inside, he undressed until he was only clad in his breeches. As much as he needed to answer the day’s missives, he wanted to spend time with his wife. A knock sounded. His bare feet patted the floor as he crossed it. He opened the door and Wynn almost knocked him over in his haste to get inside.
“I couldn’t leave him alone in the chamber. He’s not used to be left for long periods. I hope you don’t mind if he stays in here.”
“He’s welcome.” Rhyder pointed to the hearth. “Wynn, lay down.” The dog ran and skidded across the chamber until he reached the stone of the hearth. He lay and stretched out.
“My dog never listens to anyone but me.” Katriona gave a look of disgust at the canine.
He chuckled at her dismay. “I have a way with beasts…ah, animals.”
“I’m here as you requested. Do you want to kiss me again and…?”
He took her hand and led her further into the chamber. “There’s no reason for haste. We have all night. Come and lay with me.”
She got onto the bed and he joined her. Rhyder took her in his arms and held her. All tension eased from him. He thought about the moment all day when he might hold her again. His thoughts of her plagued him throughout the day, so much so, he got little work done. All concerns fled, even those of Shrisy. He could think of nothing but her. Was he a lovesick, besotted man? He scoffed and hadn’t meant to aloud.
“Is something wrong? I sense sorrow about you. Is it the men who were killed…?”
He rubbed her arm and sighed. “That is one of many of my concerns. I sensed your fear.”
She pulled away slightly and looked into his eyes. “I’m not afraid of you.” She resettled and placed her arm over his abdomen.
Her touch comforted him. “Not fear of me, but when we were by the cliffs you were quiet and seemed distressed. Something bothered you. Will you not tell me?”
