The women returned silently to the library, fearful of Nadia’s spies, but once Yara was certain they were alone she turned to Concordia and said.
“Rest assured I will not betray your trust. I know well the secrets of this household and will show you the hidden rooms and stairwells within these quarters to prove that I trust you.”
Concordia wiped away joyful tears as she followed Yara to the portico, gasping in disbelief when the slave pushed away the bench, which revealed a stairwell that led to the sea.
Chapter Seventeen
Concordia and Yara used the time well as they awaited Thayer’s return. The morning hours were spent in the library where Concordia studied not only the writings of Mohammed but she also studied the history of Moorish Hispania. Surprisingly, Yara was eager to know more of King Alfred and the Saxon people, much to Concordia’s delight, and her genuine interest in understanding the Christian religion proved to Concordia that she had gained Yara’s trust.
After the noonday meal, the women walked the labyrinth of secret passageways beneath the massive villa, choosing tunnels that took them to the nearby forest or had them gazing upon the blue waters as rolling waves spilled upon the beach where frothy bubbles caressed the sand before returning to the sea.
There were many inlets and sea caves hidden beneath the sheer cliffs that were easily explored at low tide. During one such exploration Concordia discovered a denarius embedded within a rocky crevice bearing the likeness of Julius Caesar, reminding her of her mother’s lineage. Concordia’s grandfather, Justinus, was an illicit descendant of the great Caesar and the emperor’s blood flowed in her veins. She remembered the hours spent with her mother’s brother, her Uncle Sidonius, who had recounted eagerly the life of Aurelius, the bastard son Julius Caesar refused to acknowledge, repeating tales told to him by his father about the soldier who had founded their dynasty. She could imagine the ancient city, seeing the mighty Caesar in her mind’s eye, but the blurry vision became real as she gazed upon the Emperor’s face, a heroic profile etched in silver withstanding the passage of time.
Yara shared Concordia’s joy, pressing her to tell the stories when she held the precious coin, and failing to hide her disappointment when Concordia said she would do so after the night meal. Yara mumbled under her breath, brooding as she walked about the cavern while overturning loose rocks searching for treasure, much to Concordia’s amusement.
“We should leave before the tide returns,” Concordia reminded her.
The women were close to the tunnel when they heard the sound of hoof beats along the coastal road, and returned quickly to their chambers. Concordia ran to the door, relieved it remained locked while Yara searched the rooms, but neither woman spoke until Yara was satisfied that they were alone.
“Only Chad and Thayer travel that road,” Yara told her. “I will know more when I prepare the night meal.”
Concordia remained silent, sitting upon a chair lest she fell to the floor. Her heart was pounding and her breathing was erratic because she feared the future. Her eyes stung as she pressed her hand to her mouth, gagging uncontrollably while suffering from nausea. Her head ached and tears flowed rapidly down her face as she glanced pleadingly at Yara.
“What troubles you?” Yara asked anxiously as she rushed to Concordia’s side, embracing her newly-found friend while whispering soothing words.
“There is something...a grave secret not yet shared. I do not know why I did not mention it...you are trusted...but I am frightened,” Concordia sobbed.
“Have we not become as sisters these past weeks? You must tell me if I am to be of help.”
Concordia smiled timidly, wringing her sweaty hands while Yara waited patiently for her to reply, but she was emotionally overwhelmed and the stuffy room did little to calm her agitated state. Suddenly Concordia ran towards her bedchamber, suppressing the urge to heave until she found a basin. Yara rushed into the candle-lit room and gently held Concordia’s trembling body as she emptied her belly.
“You must rest,” Yara said kindly, placing Concordia upon the bed before fetching water and a cloth.
Yara wiped away the remnants of disgorged matter and placed a wet rag upon Concordia’s forehead before urging the distraught woman to sip some water.
“You have not been poisoned,” Yara said reassuringly. “You have my word.”
“I know,” Concordia whispered tearfully. “It is the child I carry, and I fear for his life.”
Yara stifled a gasp as she tended to Concordia, believing Brantson’s seed had taken root. She would speak with Thayer before he visited his wife because she also feared for the life of Brantson’s son.
“There are remedies, and I know well the potions,” Yara replied. “Sleep now. I will not be long.”
“Do not leave me!” Concordia stammered, grabbing Yara’s arm as she tried to stand.
“You are safe. Only Thayer and I have a key.”
Concordia released her grip reluctantly, closing her eyes while seeking the rest her body craved. Yara entered the main room just as Thayer opened the door, but the startled slave took Thayer’s hand, pulling the bewildered man into the library before Concordia realized he had returned.
“Have you forgotten your place?” Thayer asked, somewhat annoyed while Yara closed the door. “I could have you flogged for your insolence!”
“But you will not!” Yara smiled. “Besides, there are...complications...which must be dealt with before you speak to Concordia. But first, tell me what news from Valencia?”
“Father will not sanction a marriage to Concordia even if she should convert to Islam, but he does not object to my keeping her as my concubine. My mother is not happy with the arrangement. She believes Concordia should be returned to her father, and she reminded me of our family’s friendship with the Saxon king.”
“Your mother is wise.”
“Perhaps, but Concordia stays, and I will hear no more of it! And what is so important that you would risk punishment to...”
“Enough with your threats,” Yara injected. “I have grave news...Concordia is with child.”
Thayer was taken aback by this unexpected difficulty, his demeanor depicting his uneasiness as he paced about the room.
“You must protect her and the child, especially from Nadia,” Yara reminded him.
“Do not tell me what I must do! Do you think me simple?”
“I meant no offense.”
“I know,” Thayer whispered, kissing Yara on her forehead before sitting upon a bench. “I will spend the night here, with Concordia. You will inform the household of my return, with a woman...and she will be presented to them after the morning meal. Tell them she will be given Chad’s quarters...and send for the merchants. I trust Concordia would want different furnishings. You will be her only servant and you will sleep in her bedchamber, and the door stays locked. Understood.”
“Concordia will never trust you if you keep her imprisoned within these walls.”
“She will be permitted to walk the grounds accompanied by you and a guard. Sharif will see to it.”
“And Nadia?”
“I will deal with Nadia.”
“I hope so,” Yara said softly.
“You worry overmuch,” Thayer grinned. “We will speak again, but for now I would see my wife while you gossip with the servants, and stay clear of Nadia...you know well her anger.”
“I will be careful,” Yara replied as she followed Thayer into the main room, locking the door behind her when she left.
Thayer poured himself some wine, drinking the soothing liquid slowly, enjoying the sweet liquid with its fresh fruit flavor. He set the cup down reluctantly, mumbling under his breath as he removed his belted dagger that he tossed upon the table before entering the bedchamber. He stood in the doorway, grateful to remain in the shadows as he watched Concordia sleeping.
Steady flames from a dozen candles burned in the still room bereft of a breeze. Thayer would have opened the shutters, chiding himse
lf for having had them permanently closed as he sat upon the bed, taking care not to awaken the woman who did indeed hold his heart. However, Concordia sensed she was not alone as she opened her eyes cautiously, being surprised when she noticed Thayer’s worried look.
“I did not hear you,” Concordia whispered as she sat herself upon her elbows. “How was your journey?”
“Uneventful,” Thayer replied, brushing his fingers through her tangled hair, “but you are unwell.”
“It is the heat and nothing more.”
“I know you carry Brantson’s child, and...”
“I am betrayed,” Concordia interrupted tearfully. “Do with me what you will, but I beg you to spare my son.”
Thayer pulled Concordia closer, holding her firmly, but gently, not saying a word when she succumbed to her pent-up emotions, rocking her gently in his arms as she wept while speaking hopeful words.
“You were not betrayed,” Thayer finally said as Concordia’s tears subsided. “Yara protects you as I protect you, but you must trust me, no harm will befall you or your child.”
“I pray that is so because my courage fails me,” Concordia murmured. “I am at your mercy, my lord.”
“I will stay with you this night, but I will not touch you,” Thayer quickly reassured her when he noticed her fearful look. “However, appearances are necessary for this ruse to succeed.”
“I do not understand.”
“By claiming you, I have assured your position in this household. No one would dare harm their master’s...”
“Concubine!” Concordia shouted. “I am not your wife...our wedding was the ruse!”
“My vows were truthful, and they will be honored. You are my wife and when we bed it will be because of our love and not wanton desire. You have suffered much for one so young, which is why I will give you time to grieve for Brantson and for the life you once lived.”
“I have misjudged your intentions,” Concordia apologized while kissing Thayer’s hand. “We truly are man and wife in the eyes of God, my husband, and I will do as you bid.”
“All will be well, you have my word,” Thayer smiled. “Come, walk the beach with me. The sea air is refreshing.”
Concordia took Thayer’s outstretched arm willingly, her eyes sparkling when she walked through the door, stepping into the cool night air, the sea breeze a welcome respite from the stale air that shrouded her evenings. They passed the deserted gardens, choosing the moonlit path as they made their way leisurely to the shoreline while nocturnal creatures scurried throughout the wooded landscape.
The wind whispered above the rippling waves, soft words of a mother’s warning reminding Concordia she was not alone as a salty mist caressed her face. Iridescent moonbeams danced upon the glistening water, shimmering beneath the starry sky, nature’s beauty summoning love.
Concordia could not resist running through the frothy bubbles breaking upon the sandy shore, her long tresses blowing carelessly in the wind, her feet sinking in the mud, much to Thayer’s amusement. He followed, but at a much slower pace, her laughter reminiscent of days long past, of an innocent friendship and purity of heart.
“Your laughter pleases me,” Thayer said, lifting Concordia into the air to escape a breaking wave, only to be thrown upon the shore.
Thayer held Concordia in his arms, mindful of the retreating surf when he lifted her chin and kissed her lips gently, becoming surprised when she returned his kiss.
“I did not mean,” Concordia stammered, freeing herself from Thayer’s grasp and scrambling to her knees.
“I am at fault,” Thayer replied while helping Concordia to her feet. “I will not touch you unless you so will it...you have my word.”
“It is late...and we must change our clothing lest we catch a chill.”
Thayer and Concordia did not speak as they returned to Chad’s quarters, each alone with their thoughts in the quiet night. Once inside, Thayer locked the door, reminding Concordia that she would never be free. She would have to escape before she was heavy with child, but could she trust Yara? Concordia was grateful for the privacy as she dressed, and because she was in the bedchamber she did not hear Yara enter. She came upon slave and master speaking in whispers when she entered the main room.
“Yara will sleep in your bedchamber when I do not share your bed,” Thayer told her. “This night she will sleep in this room.”
“I welcome Yara’s company...the days are long when one is alone,” Concordia replied. “There is something...I would speak with the priest.”
“That is not possible at this time,” Thayer said kindly. “He has since returned to Rome.”
“Perhaps another priest might be found?”
“Highly unlikely in these parts,” Thayer replied as he offered Concordia his arm. “Come, Yara has brought refreshments. You must eat to keep your strength, and then you must rest.”
Chapter Eighteen
The early morning sun rose above the horizon, its warming beams drying the dew-kissed countryside while the aroma of baking bread filtered through the air. The kitchens bustled with activity since preparations for the morning meal were well underway. Servants and slaves spoke in whispers about their master’s return, but it was the mysterious woman who accompanied him that piqued their curiosity. They also wondered about Nadia’s place within the household, if the master did indeed favor the woman who now shared his bed. Nadia would never relinquish her status willingly nor would she be subjugated by an usurper, and they could only speculate why Thayer had yet to make Nadia his wife.
Yara was in the shaded courtyard where tables covered with colorful cloth had been erected not far from the spouting fountains. She smiled when telling the children where to set the food-laden platters and water-filled pitchers while scattering jasmine petals along the length of the tables. She noticed Nadia speaking to a visitor in the portico, becoming uneasy because she recognized the man even though she could not see his face. She wondered when Chad had returned, or if he had ever left. And where had he been housed? Perhaps he owns a dwelling in the town? She should have been told, but then again his whereabouts was none of her concern, yet she would not have taken Concordia through the tunnels, fearing discovery.
Once the arrangements were completed, Yara took her place amid the serving women, waiting silently for the master’s arrival. She watched Bashir with Nadia’s women while Thayer’s men huddled in a corner, speaking quietly amongst themselves while drinking watered wine.
Suddenly an excited hush overcame the intimate group as Thayer and Concordia entered the courtyard.
“Thayer must have chosen her dress,” Yara said to no one in particular while watching Nadia intently.
Concordia’s elegant attire and stately demeanor was not lost upon the crowd. She was of noble birth even if she was not from these parts, which only added to the mystique. Nadia paled in comparison to Concordia’s beauty, but Nadia was a woman and not a child, a fact Nadia would find useful once she decided the best way to rid herself of this threat.
Thayer kept his eyes upon Concordia as they approached the table, kissing the nape of her neck when he seated her upon a cushioned bench, amused by her discomfiture when she blushed. Concordia searched for Yara, needing to see a friendly face as she glanced upon the members of Thayer’s household. She held her head regally, her mannerism reflecting her station, her face bereft of emotion, much to Nadia’s disconcertion.
Thayer nodded to Sharif who retreated into the shadowy confines of the portico where he could keep an eye on not only Nadia but also on Chad. The quiet courtyard basked in the early morning sunlight as Thayer waited deliberately to present Concordia to the people he ruled. Even the songbirds did not sing although the sound of flowing water was calming. Seconds passed, but to Concordia it seemed like an eternity. She took slow, deep breaths, her stoicism unnerving to the people who stared unashamedly, their eyes depicting a mixture of emotions. She saw pity and hatred, and desire, knowing well her fate should Thayer withdraw his pr
otection.
“Concordia carries my child and she is to be treated as befits her station,” Thayer said loudly. “Understood?”
For one brief moment, Nadia seethed with rage before mastering her anger. She was aware all eyes were upon her, watching and waiting while Thayer demanded silence from the startled crowd.
“Concordia will have her own household, and Yara will see to her needs. All visitors must be approved by me or Sharif.”
“Brother, your news is most welcome,” Chad said as he hurriedly approached the table. “It is time you had an heir.”
Concordia stifled a gasp as she glanced upon the father of her child and wondered if Chad suspected the truth. She murmured the appropriate responses when he bowed before her and kissed her fingers. Her face reddened when he winked before stepping aside, a gesture she prayed Thayer did not see. However, Concordia’s concerns were unfounded because Thayer’s eyes were upon Nadia who headed towards them.
Thayer and Chad were both surprised when Nadia bowed and embraced Concordia warmly, her eyes sparkling, her smile seemingly genuine as she greeted her adversary.
“I am pleased you grace our lands,” Nadia told her sweetly for all to hear, “and I would also entreat your friendship.”
“You are most kind,” Concordia replied, grasping her enemy’s hand, feigning amity.
Nadia did not leave Concordia’s side while she received Thayer’s subjects, much to Yara’s dismay, nor was Yara comfortable with Chad’s return. Something was not right, but what?
Once the pleasantries were completed, the slaves served the famished guests, remaining in the background, waiting to refill a cup or fetch more food. Yara stood behind Concordia, listening to Nadia’s deceiving words while wondering what mischief was being planned when she noticed Chad leaving with Bashir.
Concordia did not eat much, fearing she might become ill. She graciously accepted a cup of water, grateful for Yara’s reassurance when the slave squeezed her shoulder softly. After an interminable amount of time, the meal was finally finished. Thayer kissed Concordia’s lips ravenously before permitting her to return to her assigned quarters. Concordia rubbed her lips thoughtfully, reflecting upon the kiss, knowing well the reason behind the display of affection. No one would dare defile Thayer’s captive because that was indeed what she was, his prisoner, and everyone living on these lands knew it.
The Briton and the Dane: Concordia Page 12
