Vengeance 03 - Believe In Me

by Lana Williams

  His eyes narrowed. “You appear fine to me.”

  “Indeed I am. But I must rest each time. It is exhausting, physically and mentally.”

  “Of course,” he said with that irritating smile again on his lips. It made her doubt his sincerity.

  Yet what could she do but proceed as though all was well and the matter resolved? “I’m pleased you understand. I trust the incident that occurred yesterday won’t happen again.” She stated it as a fact, rather than a question.

  He only continued to smile.

  With deep unease, she curtsied and left the room, certain the issue was far from over.

  ***

  “I don’t think we should let anyone, especially the bishop, know of our return,” William said as they neared Longsbury.

  “What do you suggest?” Henry asked.

  “Let us seek shelter elsewhere. I will get a message to Cristiana and we can determine our next steps after we speak with her.”

  “The bishop will not be pleased if he discovers we have returned but not handed over the relic.”

  “Nor will he be pleased if we take away his ward,” William said.

  Henry frowned. “Is that what you intend to do?”

  “If she’s in danger, aye.” He watched Henry to see if he agreed. No matter that he had no idea what he’d do with her if she agreed to leave Longsbury with him. How had he gone from trying to earn his second chance at life by serving the bishop to defying him? Yet above all else, he knew he had to keep Cristiana safe. That felt right and true as few other things did of late.

  His friend studied him for a moment before nodding. “We cannot leave a lady in danger. But I hope you’re prepared for the bishop’s wrath. After what we learned on our journey, we know he is very dangerous.”

  “For certain, but we have no choice.”

  “True enough. Who here can we trust to help us?”

  William shook his head. “I suppose we must rely on our coins to buy us aid.”

  The city had two gates, neither far enough away from the cathedral for William’s taste. As luck would have it, it was market day at Longsbury. The road was crowded with carts and people and animals. All the better to hide two knights entering the city. The soldier guarding the gate hardly gave them notice as he was busy arguing with a man attempting to bring in a flock of sheep.

  The rain had struck here as well, leaving the road muddy and filled with puddles but at least the downpour had stopped.

  They found an inn on the outer edge of town, as far from the cathedral as they could get. After seeing to their horses and gaining a room, they stood outside, deciding how best to proceed.

  “Why does that boy look familiar?” Henry asked as he nodded toward a child across the muddy street.

  The boy guarded a cart full of firewood. A man approached him and William remembered. “The family we aided on the road. Cristiana healed the boy.”

  Henry looked at William and smiled. “I believe we know someone we can trust after all. I’m sure we could convince him to deliver a message for us.”

  Aldwin and his father recognized them immediately. “We are forever in the debt of both you and the lady,” the father said. “We’d be pleased to assist you.”

  In short order, they’d given the boy a message to deliver to Cristiana. They advised Aldwin to avoid the bishop. Obviously Bishop Duval didn’t care for children and they had no desire to put the boy in danger.

  Now they had only to wait to see if Aldwin could manage the task.

  Being this close to Cristiana but not seeing her made William crazed. He worried it might take Aldwin some time to find a moment to speak with her privately. He couldn’t very well appear at the front door of the manor, asking to see her without rousing suspicion.

  More than anything, William longed to ride to the manor and see her for himself, to make certain she was well, then take her far away from this place. To keep her safe and out of danger. He hesitated to examine his feelings too closely. Surely they had more to do with being protective of her than anything deeper.

  Unfortunately, he had difficulty convincing himself of that.

  ***

  Cristiana made her way toward the manor across the courtyard, avoiding the mud puddles when possible. She had met Branwen near the stables to make certain she was faring well. Her maid seemed restless but otherwise fine. Much like Cristiana felt.

  A black-robed figure moved toward her, head bent, hands tucked into his sleeves. He’d drawn next to her before she recognized Father Charles.

  “Good day, Father,” she said with a smile. “How are you this fine day?”

  The priest looked as though he was lost, not acknowledging her jest about the weather. “Oh. Lady Cristiana.”

  “Is something amiss?” she asked. The man was clearly not himself.

  He stared in the distance for a long moment before at last shaking his head. “I fear I’ve learned disappointing news.”

  “I’m terribly sorry to hear that. Is there anything I can do to help?”

  He collected himself and met her gaze. “You’ve done more than enough already.” At her frown, he continued, “Don’t think I haven’t noticed. Not a bone in this old body aches, even with the rain we’ve had. Thank you for that.”

  She smiled, glad to know she’d truly helped.

  “But I intend to keep it our secret.” His green eyes twinkled.

  “Thank you.” How she wished everyone here felt that way.

  He sighed. “I’m too old for these games. I only want to do God’s work, but it seems that is not to be.”

  “I’m sorry?”

  “I don’t believe I’ll remain here much longer. The bishop and I have had a difference of opinion. You take care, my lady. I wish you well.”

  Before she could ask him to explain, he hurried toward the cathedral, his robe billowing out behind him.

  Puzzled by his words, she watched him until he disappeared inside. He’d been with the bishop for so long that it was surprising to hear he intended to leave.

  The damp cold in the air caused her to draw her cloak tighter against her neck, sending her thoughts toward the warmth of the fire in the hall.

  “Psst.”

  She paused to look around, wondering from where the sound came.

  “Psst. My lady. Here,” a whispered voice called.

  At last she spotted a small boy crouched along a low stone wall not far from the stables. It took her a moment to place him. “Aldwin, is that you?”

  He nodded, his smile wide and bright.

  “Whatever are you doing here?” she asked. “Where are your mother and father?”

  He gestured for her to draw nearer. When she did, he carefully looked around as though about to tell her a secret. “They aren’t far. I’ve a message for you, my lady.”

  “From who?”

  “Sir William.”

  Her heart raced and she glanced around. “Is he here?”

  “He’s in Lonbgsbury, my lady. He bid me to tell you to meet him outside the potter’s at the city’s south west edge.”

  “Why doesn’t he come to the manor?” The idea of seeing him sent flutters through her.

  “He didn’t say though he did tell me it was most urgent that you meet him.”

  “Well, I suppose I can, but I don’t understand why he doesn’t come here.”

  The boy shrugged. “He says to please don’t tell the bishop he has returned.”

  Cristiana paused, trying to understand the message. None of it made sense, but she was getting used to that around here. “Very well. Tell him I’ll be there soon after the mid-day meal. I need time to invent some sort of excuse.”

  “I will let him know.” Aldwin bowed and was gone in a blink.

  How odd, she thought then shook her head. In truth, it didn’t matter how odd it seemed. She was thrilled William had returned and she couldn’t wait to see him again. Why he had a sudden need for secrecy, she couldn’t guess but she was eager to discover why
.

  ***

  William leaned against the wall under a dripping eave near the entrance to the potter’s. The rain had settled in to drizzle over the city for the afternoon, making a wet and chilly day. He scanned the throng of people hurrying along the street for Cristiana. Aldwin had returned sooner than he’d hoped with the news that he’d delivered the message. Anticipation jumped in his stomach each time he spotted a woman.

  “Waiting for someone?” a husky voice asked.

  The cloaked form beside him lifted her hood to reveal the beautiful face he’d sorely missed. A multitude of feelings erupted inside him, catching him off guard. Those warm brown eyes held his, their lashes even longer than he remembered. The pert nose, the high cheekbones in her heart-shaped face made him lose all thoughts. Surely it was only relief that left him weak-kneed and light headed.

  “Cristiana.”

  Her face flushed as he stared, taking in all of her like a long cool drink on a hot summer’s day. And he was so very thirsty.

  “William,” she responded, her brow arched at his prolonged regard. “How are you?” As though a sudden thought occurred, a frown marred her expression. “Is all well? Your shoulder?”

  He nodded.

  “And Henry?”

  “Fine.” Her concern for his friend warmed his heart.

  “Why didn’t you come to the manor? Did you get the relic?”

  “Aye.” He scanned the area around her, wondering if she’d been followed. “Did anyone accompany you?”

  “Sister Mawde is at the baker’s.”

  He shook his head with a rueful smile. “You’re very good at leaving her behind.”

  She returned his smile and his heart lightened. He pulled her around the side of the building to the most secluded spot he could find. He knew Henry would be standing guard, but still he felt uneasy.

  “We discovered some disturbing information on our journey and returned with all haste.”

  She sobered. “What is it?”

  “The bishop is not the man he seems. His cruelty knows no bounds. I worry for your safety.”

  “Tell me of it,” she said. Her lack of surprise made him wonder if she knew more than he’d expected.

  He shared the story they’d learned, from the breaking of the child’s fingers to the forking of the man’s tongue. Her shock surpassed his.

  “Nay! I can’t believe that could be true.” Cristiana spun away to pace a short distance then returned. “Are you certain? Have you no doubt as to the truth of those events?”

  “None. You’ve seen no evidence of this behavior from him?” he asked.

  “Nothing of that sort, though he’s not the kindest man. While I have my suspicions of his involvement in my mother’s death, to hear he is capable of such behavior from someone who endured it...” She shook her head. “He presented me with a child to heal, but he was sick, not hurt.”

  Anger filled William. “He insisted you heal?”

  “The tanner’s boy was ill. Oh, I nearly forgot. Once the boy had recovered, he acted very frightened of the bishop.”

  “Perhaps word has spread of the incident, at least among the children.”

  “I’m certain you have the right of it.”

  “Cristiana, if the bishop made you heal once—”

  She raised her hand to halt his comment. “I told him the next day that I would not perform on demand.”

  “And how did he take that news?”

  “He seemed to understand and even apologized for it. That’s why I’m surprised with what you shared.”

  Somehow, the bishop acting remorseful didn’t reassure William in the least. He glanced around to make sure no one could overhear. “Cristiana, I don’t trust him. You were right all along. You shouldn’t stay there any longer.”

  “Where would I go?”

  “We will find a safe place for you.”

  She dropped her gaze as though thinking over his suggestion. “I appreciate your concern, but I have learned several things about my mother since my arrival, and I’m convinced I will find out more...perhaps information that will lead me to the person who murdered her.”

  “That’s the last thing you should seek. It is far too dangerous.” William hadn’t expected her to refuse, not when she hadn’t wanted to come to the bishop’s to begin with.

  She met his gaze, her chin lifted. “I have to try.”

  “There has to be another way. We’ll find someone who can aid us. Someone close to the bishop.”

  “Who? Everyone at the cathedral seems loyal to him.”

  William ran his fingers through his hair, trying to think of some way to convince her. “What of Father Charles? He seemed to be a reasonable man.”

  “He’s left Longsbury.”

  “Why?”

  She shook her head. “He only said that he and the bishop had a difference of opinion. He was very agitated when I last saw him.”

  “I’m sorry to hear that. He seemed a good man.”

  “William?” He looked down at her, the heat in her gaze catching his breath. “I am very glad you’re back.” She rose to press a kiss on his lips.

  Warmth rushed through him at her gesture. His hands rose of their own accord to cup her cheeks, holding her in place a moment longer. “I missed you.”

  “And I as well,” she whispered. “I had best get back to Sister Mawde before she raises the alarm.”

  “Please consider what I’ve said. I am no longer certain you are safe there.”

  She bit her lip, her expression worried, convincing him she’d had the same fear. “I will be careful but this may be my only chance to find out what happened to my mother.”

  “He’ll make you heal again.”

  She nodded, swallowing hard. “I know. I can refuse though.”

  “But you won’t.” He traced the edge of her jaw, marveling at the softness of her skin even as he was frustrated by her.

  She smiled sadly. “How do you know me so well?”

  “Henry and I are staying here for a few days. We’ll be nearby if you need us, but we are holding the relic in case we need leverage.”

  “Leverage for what?”

  A sharp whistle cut through the air.

  “You had better go. Henry sees something.”

  With one last glance at him, she pulled up her hood and moved around the corner, quickly disappearing into the crowded street.

  “Where is she going?” Henry asked as he came to William’s side. “Isn’t she coming with us?”

  “Nay.” William shook his head. “She’s certain she can learn more about her mother’s murder by staying with the bishop.”

  “But—”

  “I know.” William shared a look with Henry.

  “Women. Nothing but trouble.” Henry stood, hands on hips as he surveyed the crowd. “Now what?”

  “The bishop will soon start looking for us.”

  “True. What do you suggest?”

  “We won’t be able to hide for long. Let us find some place we can retreat to if need be. A place close enough to be within reach, but out of sight.”

  “Not an easy task.” Henry raised his brow. “I assume that means you’re not willing to leave the lady or Longsbury? Your brother, Nicholas, would surely be glad to see us.”

  “We’re not going anywhere. I may not have Nicholas’s second sight, but I believe the lady will have need of us soon. Very soon.”

  ***

  Cristiana was chilled to the bone but her heart was light. She removed her dripping cloak with the aid of a servant who took it away to dry. The drizzle had become a deluge as she and Sister Mawde had made their way back to the manor. The nun sought their chamber to don dry clothing but before Cristiana could follow her, she heard her name called.

  “Where have you been?”

  She turned in surprise to find the bishop glaring at her from the entrance to his private chamber. Father Markus stood behind him, his hands clasped before him. Her heart raced as she thought of wh
at William had told her.

  “I accompanied Sister Mawde to the baker’s.” She reminded herself it was mostly the truth.

  “Why?” His tone was accusatory.

  “Is something amiss?” She found his interest in her whereabouts concerning.

  “From now on, I will be advised of your location at all times. You are not to leave the manor unless I approve it.”

  “While I appreciate your concern, I don’t believe that is necessary. I will have an appropriate person accompany me if I venture from the manor.” She felt certain that if she gave in on this issue, he would soon try to rule every moment of her day.

  “That is not acceptable. I am your guardian, and as such, I insist.”

  She said nothing, merely smiled, as he so often did. She refused to give her agreement to such a request.

  “Do you understand?” He moved forward to stand before her, his anger visible in the set lines of his pale face and the thinness of his lips.

  Father Markus took a step forward as well. She glared at the priest, her dislike for him growing.

  “Nay, I do not. I am a woman grown, not a child. I will fill my days as I see fit.”

  His blue eyes lit with rage and a muscle twitched in his jaw. Out of the corner of her eye, she could see his hand clench into a fist. Surely he wouldn’t strike her.

  The image of him breaking that little boy’s fingers filled her mind. Fear trickled down the back of her throat and she realized she’d gone too far. But what choice had he left her?

  “Cristiana,” he said with an attempt to speak calmly. “I only wish to keep you safe from harm.”

  His smile was more alarming than his anger. She had to make him realize she would not bow to his every command. “I appreciate your concern but it is unnecessary.”

  “Oh but it is. Father Daniel will assist you in determining your schedule each day and advise me of it.”

  “Bishop Duval—”

  “We have more weighty matters to discuss,” he interrupted her. “Come with me.”

  Dread filled her at his tone. She swallowed hard, fearing she’d made a mistake by not accompanying William while she’d had the chance.

  CHAPTER FIFTEEN