James shook his head as he readied the needle and thread. He tried to ignore the slight tremble in his hands. Ack, he should have insisted on fetching one of the women. They were well-practised with needles. He was used to stitching up wounds in desperate times when it mattered not if the scar was pretty.
“I had little intention of dragging you to the sheriff. I would not have wished to see you in the stocks.”
“Then what was your intention? To shame me?”
Gulping, he made the first stitch, fighting the desire to turn away, unable to answer her question due to the tightness of her throat. She gasped at the prick of the needle and James wished to God he could take away the pain, absorb it into him somehow and suffer it instead.
“Good girl,” he murmured. “‘Twill be over soon.”
She whimpered and shook as he drew the needle through, and he cursed to himself over and over, promising never to let her come to harm again. With the last stitch made, he pulled out his wretched dagger and cut the thread. Ellise studied his work with a shaky smile and watery eyes.
“You sew well for a knight,” she commented.
James coughed to clear his tight throat and proceeded to dress the cut, skimming his fingertips over her slender fingers. They were still rough from work, but to him they were perfect. So elegant yet so unique. Just like Ellise.
Tucking in the loose end, he managed to stop himself from kissing her hand and instead settled for an awkward pat. “You’re a brave lass.”
She laughed. “I could do with a drink!”
“Aye.” And I. “I’ll have Winnie bring you some wine. I have to return to my duties.”
“Forgive me for taking you away from them.”
“You are my duty, Ellise.” He shrugged. “Just as everyone in Thornewall is,” he added swiftly. Spinning on his heel, he paused as she called out to him.
“You never told me why you let me rob you that night. You did allow me to take your coin deliberately, did you not?”
“Mayhap I thought I was saving you.”
“From what?”
“The fate of a common criminal.”
“Ah, a noble cause, but pray tell why did I not deserve such a fate?”
“You deserve much more than that, any fool can see that.” Silence hung in the air at his admission and he watched the darkening of her cheeks. “Well, I will bid you good day. I shall have Winnie sent to you shortly.” He dipped his head and turned away before she could delay him any longer.
Aye, Ellise deserved so much more than she had in life. But it would never be up to him to give her that, he thought sadly.
CHAPTER FIVE
Enjoying the feel of silk beneath her fingers, Ellise carefully laced up Lucy’s gown as they sat on the elaborately carved bed. Winnie had let the gown out and added extra fabric but it was becoming tight again.
Lucy giggled as Ellise fought to tie the ribbons. “Ack, I’m too fat, Ellise.”
“You are not fat, my lady. Just carrying two big healthy babes.”
Dominic glanced up from his papers as he sat at his desk. “Aye, listen to Ellise. You are not fat. You are b—”
“Buxom?” Lucy interjected and Ellise heard the smile in her voice.
Dominic looked affronted. “Nay! I was going to say beautiful. No woman has ever carried babes so well.”
Ellise noted the way Dominic’s hungry gaze trailed over Lucy and fought the twisting envy in her stomach. Only one man had ever looked at her that way.
“There,” she declared as she finished the lacings. “Shall we do your hair, my lady?”
“Aye, something simple. ‘Tis too hot for long tresses. Though I must look presentable for we may have a visitor today.”
Ellise followed Lucy as she eased herself into a chair in the far corner of the solar. The room was already warm, the morning light streaming in through the wide windows. The Lord and Lady’s chambers spread across the top of one side of the hall building and spoke of their great wealth. Though not unaccustomed to such displays—her late husband had been wealthy—the lush red fabrics and stunning carved furniture were beautiful and elegant and more tasteful than she’d seen in many a wealthy home. Dominic used it both for sleep and work and scowled as he leaned over the papers on his desk.
Combing out Lucy’s long, fair hair, she worked it into several braids. “Who is this visitor you speak of, my lady?”
“A Lord Wighthurst.”
Rigid, Ellise darted a glance at Dominic as he grunted from behind his desk. An expression of discontent come across his face. Surely it could not be—?
“My husband,” Lucy continued, “is apprehensive. I have not made the acquaintance of the Earl of Wighthurst but Dominic says he is not a pleasant man.”
“He is downright wicked,” Dominic declared.
Ellise clenched her hands around Lucy’s braids to prevent them shaking. The Earl of Wighthurst. The man who had her son. Why would he be coming to Thornewall? Did he know of her presence here? Did he wish to taunt her? Or mayhap just check up on her. To see how far she had fallen since she’d declined his offer of marriage. Some days, she wondered if she should not have accepted the brutal man’s hand, for at least she would still have access to her son.
Clearing her throat, Ellise forced her hands to work at Lucy’s fair hair. “Do-do you know why he wishes to stay?”
Dominic waved a hand. “Something to do with the border reviers, though I trust him not. The reiver threat is minimal and hardly warrants a visit.” The chair screeched across the wood as Dominic stood, strolled over to the windows and peered out. “James will be uneasy. The Earl is known for his plotting. ‘Tis said he took lands that should have belonged to his late-brother’s wife.”
Focus remaining on Lucy’s hair, Ellise nodded. “Captain James seems to be sure danger lurks around every corner.”
“Aye, and he believes it is up to him to thwart it.” He looked to Ellise, a twinkle in his blue eyes and she couldn’t help but meet his gaze. “Mayhap you can teach my captain not to shoulder the burdens of the entire population of Northumbria.”
“Me, my lord?”
“Aye. It seems he listens to your word more than that of his lord.”
Ellise’s cheeks heated furiously and she stared at the braids in her hands. “You are mistaken, my lord. Captain James listens to none but himself. The word of a woman has little sway over him.”
Lucy laughed and peeked at Ellise over her shoulder. “You should listen to my husband, Ellise. He is wiser than he looks.”
Gaze narrowing, he stalked over and planted a kiss on her cheek. “You shall pay for that remark later, Luce, but sadly I have duties to see to. Good day to you, my ladies.”
“Good day, my lord,” Ellise muttered as Lucy blew a kiss toward him and he offered her a wink.
She tamped down on the pang of envy and concentrated on carefully pinning up Lucy’s hair as she took a few long breaths to ease her embarrassment. Had everyone noticed the attraction between them? Or was it only Dominic who had? She didn’t relish being fodder for gossip.
And now Edmund would be visiting. The man she hated most in life. It was unbearable to think on. She had not seen him many years, since he tracked her down and took her son from her.
“Gentle, Ellise,” Lucy scolded softly and Ellise realised she’d been jabbing the pins into Lucy’s hair furiously.
“Forgive me, my lady.”
“Is all well? You are quiet this morn. You do not take offence over Dominic’s teasing, do you? I would not have thought you the type to take gossip seriously.”
“Gossip, my lady?” So people had been talking of her and James.
“Do not fear. If you have no interest in James, I hear tell of a wealthy lord from the south courting him for his daughter.”
“Oh.”
“Have a care, Ellise. It almost sounds as if you do want him for yourself. You’ll not calm the gossips’ tongues with behaviour like that.”
Ellise swallowe
d, urging her twisting stomach to stop its jealousies. How much should she admit to Lucy? They were growing close. How could they not when she would be delivering her babies before long? But she was still her mistress and still a high bred noblewoman. Surely the idea of she and James together was laughable to her? Anyhow, it mattered not. It was an impossibility, even if their circumstances were not so far apart.
“Captain James is a good man, my lady. I value his friendship.”
“I suppose you do not value his handsome looks then?”
Ellise couldn’t resist laughing and Lucy giggled. “He is fine looking indeed, and I will say that I do not mind looking upon him, but that is all.” She tucked in a strand of hair and leaned back to admire her work. “There, all done.”
Lucy twisted to face her. “Oh, you are close-mouthed. Do you not know that I need some excitement to fill my days with? Dominic would have me confined already if he could and, as it is, he still will not allow me to do much. I may well die of boredom.”
“You should relish it. ‘Twill not be long before your babes are with us and keeping you busy.”
“Aye.” Lucy patted her stomach. “I am impatient to meet them, though I know the longer they remain, the better.” She jolted. “Oh, feel them kick, Ellise. They are strong, are they not? It must surely mean they are healthy?”
Ellise pressed a hand to her belly and smiled as a foot jabbed her hand. “They are indeed strong. It bodes well for you, my lady.”
With some effort, Lucy got to her feet. “I am to visit the chapel. Will you come and pray?”
“In but a moment. I must see that your gowns are washed.”
Lucy nodded. “My thanks.” She threaded her fingers together and eyed her for a moment. “Is all well? You look saddened.”
Ellise forced a bright smile across her face. “Not at all. I am just… just trying to recall what must be done today. I believe I have a need of some more lemon balm. The men used most of it after weapons practice yesterday.”
Lucy rolled her eyes. “Aye, they are a careless lot.”
“That they are.”
“Well, I shall see you shortly, Ellise. If you are busy, I should have no more need for you until supper.”
She nodded with a small smile as Lucy left the chambers, her footsteps soft on the balcony stairs. Running her fingers across the comb in her hand, Ellise sighed. Was Edmund truly intending to come to Thornewall? Could she even face the man? The last time she saw him, some six summers ago, he had threatened her with death and her baby son with a life not worth living. It would take all her willpower not to jump on the man and beat him herself. But she also wanted to hear of Arias. Mayhap she would at least learn how he was doing.
Swallowing the ache in her throat, she jumped from the bed and gathered the gowns for washing. She could not wallow in such thoughts. She must continue to work hard, earn her coin and get her son back. Perhaps Edmund’s visit would be useful. If she learned of his plans for the next few months, she might find a way to gain access to Arias. Edmund had kept on most of her late husband’s servants and they were loyal to her. When she had been caught, beaten, and banished by Edmund after trying to make an escape with Arias, they had taken care of her and sworn to watch over Arias. Hopefully their loyalties remained and they would help her smuggle him out.
Aye, mayhap Edmund’s visit could be used to her advantage. She forced a smile across her face. She would not allow herself to dwell on undesirable thoughts. Nor would she think on James’ impending marriage.
Mio Dios, where did that thought come from? Shaking her head, she crushed the gowns to her chest. The last thing she needed to be thinking of was the uptight Captain James.
Even if he was the most fine-looking, honourable man she’d ever met.
~***~
The stone warm against his palms, James leaned over the wall of the gatehouse to observe the approach of Lord Wighthurst and his men. Accompanied by four guards and a squire, it was difficult to view him properly.
Taking the spiral steps down to the wall, he strode along the top and into the courtyard. Dominic and Lucy already made their way across the dusty bailey as their visitors assembled by the stables. James hurried to get there first. He wanted to take a look at this Earl of Wighthurst before the Lord and Lady reached him. The churning sensation of mistrust was on him again.
A figure stepped past the soldiers and James let out a breath. Lord Wighthurst was short, with the soft looks of someone who spent more time at court then on the battlefield. But still he was probably considered handsome. With neat dark hair and a smooth jawline, James imagined the man was never lonely for the company of women.
He still kept his hand clenched around the pommel of his sword. Though he believed himself a good judge of character, he had also learned never to judge a man by appearance alone. Lord Wighthurst might not be able to wield a sword but who knew what other skills he might have?
Flowing robes partially hid a chest plate of armour as Wighthurst made to greet Dominic with an extended hand. James had to conceal a grimace. Wighthurst placed a sweaty palm into his as Dominic introduced them.
“A pleasure, Captain,” Wighthurst greeted smoothly.
“My lord.” James inclined his head in acknowledgement.
“And this is my lady wife, Lucy,” Dominic continued.
“My lady, what a pleasure. And you are with child. I pray our Lord God blesses you with sons.”
Lucy dipped courteously. “My thanks, my lord. I pray you had a safe journey?”
“Aye, indeed. Northumbrian countryside is most diverting. But, alas, I am weary.”
“Well you must come and replenish yourself, Lord Wighthurst,” Dominic declared, motioning to the hall behind them.
“Aye, aye,” Wighthurst agreed. “A drink would be welcome indeed.”
“Come then.” Dominic led the way and James followed, keeping a wary eye on their guest.
The Earl took the few small steps up to the hall and a guard pushed open the heavy doors for them. The weighty sensation still sat in James’ chest as Dominic settled Wighthurst into a large carved chair and Lucy handed him a goblet of wine. His eyes lit suddenly and James turned to see what had caught his attention.
Ellise.
Hellfire, did she have to look so beautiful? He glanced back at Wighthurst to note that Ellise had indeed captured his interest. The pale gold gown she wore made her skin radiant and her dark hair shine. Caught up in a spiralling braid, those few pesky strands still lingered around her face and James itched to press them back.
Oblivious to his—or Lord Wighthurst’s—study of her, she sat, head buried in a book at the far end of the hall. He couldn’t see the title but he imagined it was some guide to herbs. The lass, who so often scolded him for working too hard, surely took her duties just as seriously. As much as her presence complicated his life, he felt grateful to have her looking after Lucy. He prayed she delivered the babes safely for Dominic’s sake as much as her own. His old friend loved her more than anything and he dreaded something happening to the Lady of Thornewall.
“Ellise,” Lucy called, making her look up from her book.
She blinked rapidly, a wave of confusion coming across her expression and James’ heart thudded erratically as her gaze connected briefly with his. Laying the book on the arm of her chair, she came to her feet and hurried over. Her dark eyes grew wide as she focused on their guest.
“Forgive me,” she said breathlessly. “I did not even notice your arrival.”
Wighthurst released a slow smile and stood, and James fought the desire to wipe it off his face as an appreciative glint entered his cold blue eyes.
“Lord Wighthurst,” Lucy intervened. “May I introduce my lady-in-waiting, Lady Ellise?”
“A pleasure, my lady.”
“My lord.” Ellise dipped carefully, a polite expression pasted across her face but the wariness was still there. Or was it something else? Did she find the man as attractive as he clearly found her?<
br />
“Your accent…‘tis Spanish is it not?”
“Aye, my lord,” she replied tightly.
Wighthurst’s lips twitched. “I thought as much. I knew a Spanish lady once. A very fine woman indeed. ”
“Will you take some more refreshments, my lord?” Lucy interjected.
“If you would not mind, I might seek rest in my chambers. I am weary after the journey.”
“Of course. Ellise, will you—”
“I’ll show Lord Wighthurst to his chambers, my lady,” James interrupted. He certainly was not going to give Wighthurst time alone with Ellise. Not when he looked at her like that.
Lucy blinked, but nodded. “As you will, Captain.”
James stepped back as the Earl spoke briefly with Dominic and took the moment to study Ellise. Colour had risen high in her cheeks and she kept her gaze on the floor, hands clasped tightly in front of her. Was she interested in Wighthurst too? His stomach clenched.
It was only because Lord Wighthurst was not a pleasant man, that was all. Ellise deserved better than a power-hungry earl. Not him, though. Nay, their circumstances were too far apart. She deserved marriage and babes. He could offer her none of that. Not when he had to find a well-connected wife.
“Well, Captain, shall we?”
Schooling his expression, James nodded. “This way, my lord.”
He led Wighthurst out of the hall and into the courtyard. The servants and villagers bowed as they passed and James ushered him into the garden tower. It led to the guest chambers that sat over the guard’s quarters. And was far away from Ellise’s. Thank the Lord.
“You need not spend your precious time escorting me, Captain. I am sure I can find a servant to show me to my chambers,” Wighthurst protested as James motioned for him to follow the spiral steps.
“Not at all, my lord. I take a personal interest in all who step within my walls.”
Wighthurst paused on the steps. “Your walls?”
James ignored the marked question. “Be assured, my lord. Nothing happens within Thornewall without my knowledge.”
They reached the top of the steps and James pressed past and escorted him down the narrow hallway. Mary stepped out of one of the rooms, a bundle of linen in her hand and she dipped as they paused in front of the chamber.
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