Embrace of the Enemy (Winds of Betrayal)

by Jerri Hines

  “No, Marcus, please…”

  He kissed her lips once more and opened the door for her to make her escape back to her room.

  * * * *

  Hannah didn’t rise in the morning. She couldn’t face his eyes upon her. She didn’t know what she was going to do. The walls around her were collapsing in upon her. There was nowhere to escape. Hannah rose only to see her grandmother who seemed more confused upon the day, wearing upon Hannah’s nerves. She stared out upon the blanket of new fallen snow. She wondered if he had left yet. Was he contemplating forcing her with him? No, she thought, he is playing with me.

  Tears flowed freely down her face for she had no one to hide them from. Her hand covered her mouth. She fought desperately to regain her composure. She had to face her grandfather. Oh, my God! Gannon! Oh, whatever was she going to do?

  Susanna and Camilla found her within her bed upon their return in the late afternoon. “You are sick!” Camilla cried. “You missed the best party of the year, Hannah. I so wished you would have stayed! I heard poor Simon was called back to duty. So I assume you wouldn’t have found it as exciting as I. I will have to tell you of my adventure.”

  Hannah tried to fend interest, but her heart was not in it. “I can’t wait to hear, Camilla.”

  From the bottom corner of her bed, Susanna sat. Hannah could feel her eyes upon her. “Camilla, run and get poor Hannah some tea. She is ill. I can well see it upon her face.”

  Camilla’s hand went up to Hannah’s forehead. “I do believe you have a small fever. Oh, my Hannah. I will be back in a moment. I will tell Miss Trant to prepare a tray for you.”

  Susanna waited until Camilla had closed the door before she edged up the bed. Her eyes stared into Hannah’s. Hannah was certain her eyes betrayed her. Her chin quivered slightly before Susanna took Hannah in her arms. Hannah broke down and wept. Susanna let her without saying a word. She patted Hannah’s back, letting Hannah release the hurt, the frustration she had held within her for such a long time.

  Hannah sniffled until her eyes dried. Susanna pulled her back. “Oh, Hannah. I should have gone with you.”

  “It isn’t your fault, Susanna. You warned me. It's this damn game I’m playing. I have spun my own web around me,” she uttered in a low tone. She wiped back her eyes. Her chest heaved heavily. “I will contain myself. I need only a plan.”

  Susanna hesitated before she pulled a note from her pocket. “The Colonel is still within the house. He asked me to give to you this note.”

  Hannah’s hand trembled slightly as she opened it.

  My lovely Hannah, I find I have to leave this day, but will be back soon to claim you as we have planned. Remember my words, my touch, my love… Yours forever, Marcus

  Hannah’s hands tore the note into pieces. She sighed swinging her legs around the bed. “Oh, what is he doing writing such! Does he want all to know of my discretion?”

  Susanna’s eyes betrayed her concern. “I don’t know, Hannah, but we well need to think upon all and soon.”

  * * * *

  Days passed. Hannah hadn’t kept count of even what day it was. She walked around the house as if a shadow. Her grandfather had said nothing to her, but his eyes told her he didn't trust her. That alone scared her beyond measure. His inaction led her only to believe he had a plan.

  She hadn’t gone to a social event since that night. She didn't dare try to contact Tepper. She wouldn’t place him into danger trying such an action. She hoped that in her silence it would be warning enough. And Marcus—he had made it well known of his intentions toward her. He had constantly sent her notes, which she burned without reading. He had sent her a gift, which sat unopened upon the foyer table driving Camilla crazed with wonderment of what it could be. Hannah didn't care. Marcus had even sent her flowers, beautiful fresh flowers.

  Her mind was set. She was leaving—to where she didn’t know or how. She had hidden a substantial amount of money within her special room. Money she had bought with her from Williamsburg. She needed only a cover. Without question she needed help, but she didn't dare ask anyone. She could only imagine what punishment her grandfather would dole out if someone who got caught helping her now.

  She finally emerged from her grandmother’s room once more. Her mind made up to ask for a tray up in her room this evening. She ran from prying eyes, but when she looked up she saw Miss Trant running down the foyer toward her.

  “Miss Corbett,” she called. “Your grandfather has sent a request for your appearance at supper tonight. We are having guests.”

  “I’m certain he can entertain everyone without me,” Hannah said simply.

  “It isn’t what he said, Miss.”

  Hannah sighed. She had no desire for any kind of interaction with anyone, especially not her grandfather. She turned and walked by Miss Trant down the spiraling staircase. She hadn't far to go. Her grandfather stood within the foyer, greeting men she did not know.

  He looked up upon her appearance descending slowing down the staircase. “Ah, my dear. Gentlemen, this is my granddaughter, Hannah Corbett. Mr. Langston Gilman and Mr. Elliot Perkins. They have traveled from Philadelphia. I hoped you will make your presence known. I am certain you would like to get information of your family there.”

  “Of course, Grandfather,” she said hesitatingly.

  “It is a pleasure to meet you, Miss Corbett,” the elder man bowed slightly. “Langston Gilman. Your beauty has not been exaggerated. I hope you excuse our appearance having traveled far and quick. We will refresh ourselves.”

  “And take care of our package,” the other interrupted patting the satchel hanging around his person. He pulled it forth over his head, placing in down upon the open chair. “Wouldn’t want anyone to get hold of this before we have time…”

  “Elliot!” Gilman reprimanded.

  “Of course,” the man replied. “Of course.”

  Hannah watched the odd exchanged. The men hadn’t the look of ones who had been traveling. She glanced back over to her grandfather. She smiled a dutiful smile.

  “Grandfather, I wanted only to inform you that I am feeling much better. I will be happy to join all for dinner this evening.” She curtsied slightly.

  “We will look forward to your company,” he answered. He leaned over and kissed her cheek.

  Hannah returned to the stairs. Taking one step at a time, she glanced back at the satchel sitting upon the chair. The men had disappeared into her grandfather’s study, leaving the precious satchel out, alone, vulnerable to curious eyes…except Hannah saw well the intent.

  Did they think her a dim-witted imbecile? The whole of the setting was a sham! An attempt to catch her in the act of which Gannon was screaming about! Her steps quickened. By the time she reached the top of the staircase, she ran to her room. She had no time for anything other than changing clothes.

  She changed into a simple dress better for travel. Grabbing her cloak, she raced up to her special room. Rapidly withdrawing her precious money… her only hope of escape… she rushed down the back stairs. There was no time for an elaborate scheme. She had only one option. She would simply leave…walk out…and that she did without looking back.

  * * * *

  The cold weather had broken. It had warmed but left the streets slushy. Hannah gave it little thought. Her mind wandered with a million thoughts. She walked as if in a trance, not knowing where to go to accomplish her desire to leave this place. Unconsciously, she found herself at the church steps of Reverend Brown. She wondered briefly if the doors were open. She knew Reverend Brown had a large family. Maybe one could help her buy a horse or hire a carriage. Reverend Brown had struck her like the type not to be easily intimidated by the British.

  She paused until she saw one walk up the steps to the back of the church where Reverend Brown lived. A young lad of no more than fifteen, sixteen at the most, Hannah hesitated only briefly.

  “Excuse me,” she said waving her hand in his direction. “Excuse me. Do you know Reverend Brown?
”

  The lad turned and smiled at her. She quickly assumed that it wasn't often a young lady flagged him down in this manner. “I’m his son, Philip. Can I help you? He’s not at home at the moment.”

  Hannah sighed. She bit the lower part of her lip. “Do you think you can help me find a mount? Or hire a carriage? I have money. I need only to find a place. I’m in dire straits or wouldn't ask, but I have to leave immediately…”

  “I am certain I can help you, but the time is getting late. My mother is within. I can't believe she would let you leave until the morning’s light.”

  Panic surged within her. “No, no. I need to leave this night. You don’t understand. I have to leave…”

  Her words echoed upon deaf ears. In that moment, the lad stepped backwards. He could see what she could not. She glanced over her shoulder. A pair of British soldiers walked straight toward her. She didn't say a word, but hurried by the lad, who made a small protest.

  The soldiers easily caught her upon her steps. The lad stood not knowing what to do. “I must protest, sirs,” he said emphatically. “This young lady was seeking help. Pray let go of her.”

  The soldiers smirked at the lad. “We are certain she was. But we have our orders, lad.”

  Hannah’s heart raced. “And those would be? I have done nothing! I want only to be allowed to go to my home.”

  One of the soldiers turned to the lad. “What help was she asking?”

  “What she said,” Philip said defensively. “She wanted help only to get transportation.”

  “You didn't think that strange? A young lady with no escort.”

  “No, look where she is now,” Philip answered. Hannah would have laughed if not for her circumstances.

  Hannah jerked back out of one of their hands. Holding her head high, she attempted once more to leave.

  “Miss Corbett, we must beg you to stop. We have orders to detain you.”

  Trying desperately to contain her composure, she asked the soldier, “For what reason?”

  “It isn't for us to know. Only to obey our orders if you attempted to leave your house in which you did. Obviously you have an intention to leave the city. We need to wait only for transportation for you now. It will be here shortly.”

  “It's cold and snow covered. Why not let her wait in our house or gardens instead of the streets?” Philip offered.

  “No,” Hannah answered. “I appreciate your offer, but I had no right to ask for help from a stranger. I thought only it was a house of worship. I don't want to get your family involved in my affairs. I will go with them.”

  “You may wait in the gardens,” the soldier said. “I see no harm. It won't be for long.”

  * * * *

  Hopelessness encompassed Hannah’s being. She sat upon the bench in the back of the garden, sheltered from all inquiring eyes at least for the moment. A cool breeze swept through her. Yet she did not feel the cold. Confused, she didn’t know what was happening. Was she being arrested? Then she thought, of course she was. Could they detain her otherwise? Her grandfather tried to corner her. It was easy to decipher he leaned with Gannon.

  They had no proof of any of her dealings. Did they need it? Could they have figured out all she had done? How did Gannon know it was her? Did they need proof?

  From her view the sun was preparing to set illuminating a reddish glow reflecting off the bountiful strands of white. Was heaven there in the clouds, Hannah wondered? Could her father see her? Her mother? Would she be with them soon? Would she go to heaven after all she had done?

  She heard a noise. Someone was walking up the stone path. She glanced around. Marcus walked up slowly beside her. She said nothing.

  “Do you mind if I sit beside you for a moment?”

  She moved slightly down a tad. He eased in. His arm went around her shoulder, pulling her into him. “You don’t make anything easy. Do you, Hannah?”

  “I don’t know what you mean? I want only to go home. Is that so wrong?”

  He turned her to him. “With all that has happened, Hannah, it isn’t possible. I have only just come from your grandfather’s. You passed the test they set for you with ease. Except Hannah, I wonder how you knew so easily it was a trap unless.…”

  He didn't say the words which she knew were upon his lips. “Is that what you are doing? Arresting me?”

  “No,” he said simply. “Let us just say we are detaining you for your protection and ours.”

  She bit her lips fighting back her tears. “I want only to leave, Marcus. I can't take any more. I want to go home.”

  He reached over and ran his hand through her hair pushing back her cloak’s hood. “Can’t you see, Hannah? I see you have gone well above your head. I will protect you now. Take you away from everything. I told you how I feel.”

  She turned from him. The sun was setting over the horizon. “I can’t, Marcus,” she whispered.

  He stood, taking her with him. He secured her in his embrace. “I love you, Hannah. You tell me I have no right. I tell you I shouldn’t. I know all and still with everything in me, I love you.”

  His head leaned down and placed his lips upon hers, gently, warmly. “Tell me you don’t feel the same. Tell me you don’t want me as I want you…that this whole of the war and sides we stand mean little here and now with you in my arms. If you don't want me, if you don't want to be with me.…”

  She couldn't think straight with him holding her. God forgive her—she did want him. Her resistance faded. She was tired…oh, ever so tired. She surrendered to the weakness within her. “For tonight, only, Marcus. I don't know what the morrow holds. I can make no promises.”

  Marcus wasted little time ushering Hannah into the waiting carriage. He held her tight giving her no opportunity to change her mind. The carriage stopped shortly after, and Marcus helped her down in front of a large mansion where he quartered. The house rivaled her grandfather’s in grandeur, but she gave it little notice. Marcus’s arm sat around her waist as they entered. She didn’t move while he spoke to an elderly gentleman. The butler no doubt.

  Her legs trembled beneath her as Marcus led her up the stairs. A sudden fear developed within her…a sudden urge to run, but Marcus held her hand firmly. He opened the door to a room on the far end of the corridor.

  Hannah took no note of her surroundings, only on the bed in front of her. Marcus released her long enough to draw the curtains and remove his boots. She made no movements but watched his every move. He threw his waistcoat upon a chair and loosened his shirt. Her breathing quickened when he returned to her side.

  When he placed his hands on her, she was assaulted with a consciousness of her raging need for his man. He overwhelmed her with his masculinity. Raw power emanated in his touch and overpowered her reason.

  She had no awareness of when her gown fell from her body nor how she found herself naked on his bed. She knew only an intense desire burning within her. She wanted him desperately.

  He taunted her with kisses and caresses until she begged him to end the torture. He would not be rushed as if he savored every moment. She felt his mouth latch on to her breast and sucking it deep into his mouth. She was undone at the sensation rippling through her. His attention turned from her breast to the core of her. Parting her legs, his fingers slid into her and shattered what was left of her control.

  She arched upward toward him, crying out his name as a fervor wave of pleasurable spasms cascaded through her. He entered her then, thrusting into her depths until her longing burst into flames as the gushing warmth of his release filled her. After a long moment, Marcus rolled off of her, taking her with him.

  His arms wrapped tightly around her, refusing her any other option except laying against him. After a time, she realized he was sleeping soundly, but she could not withdraw back. He had her firmly within his control…and that gnawed at her conscience.

  With this night, she would have to face the consequences of her actions. She had done immeasurable harm to the cause and in the p
rocess ignited her grandfather’s fury against her. Though, the greatest threat was the man she lay with and the realization he was her weakness.

  Chapter Six

  Hannah lay back on the bed she had shared with Marcus. The passion of the night faded into the morning sun. The stillness of the dawn of another day encompassed her. She lay alone with her thoughts. Marcus had eased out of the room only moments earlier. She hadn’t asked where for foreboding filled her. He may have assumed she played the game, but he didn’t know how deep she was within. Nor would she ever betray her cause. Her fervor belief in her country hadn’t waned, in that Tepper had read her correctly.

  Not that Marcus had intended for her to turn on her counterparts or had asked. From his words she assumed his solution had been to remove her from the scene. She breathed in deeply. She fought off the urge to cry. How she long for Virginia! When she closed her eyes, faces appeared and haunted her—her father and brother hanging until neither breathed another breathe; her mother lying on the cold, cold floor in a puddle of her own blood; Gabriel declaring vehemently his love and then deserting her.

  Her mind raced. Where would she go from here? Her own actions had to be held accountable. Marcus had to be dealt with. He talked last night as if everything had been set. She understood well that it would be quite impossible. His point of view on the subject differed greatly from her own. Her moral fiber rebelled against it if not her body.

  She rubbed her eyes and sat up in bed, holding the covers against her bare skin. Glancing around the room, she looked for her clothes. She longed to bathe, but time wouldn’t allow the luxury. She needed to dress quickly and depart. Her clothing was nowhere to be seen. She wrapped the cover around her and set her bare foot against the wood floor.

  She walked over to the window. She pulled back the curtain and surveyed the scene below. The day’s bustling had begun. She let go of the curtain and turned back to the room. She began to search for clothing, any clothing. She had to leave. Disappointed, she discovered the chest held only men’s clothing. She had no choice. She reached inside and pulled forth what she needed.