The Virgin Widow

by Lillith Payne

  "Zane, I think it's time you told your wife what we've been discussing.” Turning, Serena saw her husband, standing nearby, ready to lead her to a nearby chair. She took the glass he extended and settled back to listen to what had really been going on in Trahorn castle the last few years.

  * * * *

  Hours later, finally bathed and alone with her husband, she still couldn't believe his old friend Charles just happened to be the King of England. And she found it harder to believe what had been going on around them. When it began to muddle her brain, she silenced him with a kiss to his lips and her hand strayed down to find him pulsing and ready. Now lying spent, neither spoke, only held tight as sleep overtook them.

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  Chapter Ten

  Everyone was having a wonderful time and didn't seem to notice Serena and Zane were both on edge. After their long talk last evening, the details fell into place, and they realized how lucky they were. They had each other. Maybe that was why he kept her close to him all day, within an arm's reach. She didn't mind, in fact found it soothing and exhilarating to be near him, to glance towards him and find him watching her with his special smile, the one he only flashed her on occasion. And those occasions usually led them back to the bedroom. That was the one discussion Serena had put off, afraid her body would betray her.

  The day moved quickly. All the preparations that took weeks seemed over before it began. With the daylight long gone, they were about to go inside and change for Zane's birthday supper. Serena had thought it strange when he insisted it be a closed meal with only specially invited guests to join them. Usually their meals were shared with many; tonight there would be only a handful. It crossed her mind to ask why, but somehow understood not to. Especially after the candid discussion yesterday with her husband and his old friend, who just happened to be the king.

  With last waves and accepting good wishes from his villagers, their party readied to head inside, the huge wood doors opening for them.

  The ear-piercing scream startled them all. Zane ran first, Serena a close second. Charles handed his new wife, Henrietta Maria, to his guard and followed, arriving in time to see the spectacle for himself. In Serena's dressing room, the seamstress Ann was collapsed onto the floor, the beautiful brocaded gold fabric in her lap, her tears dripping onto it, leaving wet dots on the material, mixing with the black stains.

  * * * *

  Zane took in the sight and tried to clear all the staff that had come running. When DeVore had the hall cleared, all entered, the king's guard waiting in the hall. In the far corner was a maid Serena recognized, cowering against the wall, her fingers black with ink, the bottle still clutched between them.

  "Explain yourself,” Zane demanded, but the maid only cried more. Hilda persuaded Ann to leave the gown and the room, Serena stopping them along the way to hug Ann, to whisper a reassurance to the woman she'd come to like. All the hours of work she'd spent to make Serena's party dress were in vain. The gown was ruined and she knew why.

  "You work for Countess Huxley, don't you?” Serena said quietly, coaxing the girl from the corner, waiting while she dropped before the men, begging their forgiveness. Charles gave Zane a look and they both stepped back, realizing the woman would respond better to another woman.

  "Yes, my lady. She made me do this, said she'd see me in debtors’ prison if I didn't. I didn't want to...” the woman continued, only to be overtaken with another round of crying, which turned into hiccups. Calmed, the girl was reassured she'd not be imprisoned.

  Led away by Hilda, Zane focused on Serena. His anger was apparent, his face flushed and both of his hands fisted. Charles whispered and left them alone, taking the golden gown with him. Serena managed to stay calm, poured him a brandy and pushed him into their bed chamber.

  "It's only a gown, Zane. A beautiful one it was, but only a gown. I have others."

  "Yes, but none as beautiful. And you deserve to wear beautiful things, Serena."

  Her smile was timid, her cheeks flushing at his words. She didn't use the opportunity to tell him she might not fit it in a few months’ time. “I'd give all my gowns to stay naked in bed with you."

  He finally laughed aloud and visually relaxed, the brandy she offered him helping to ease his worry. Her eyes followed his hand placing the empty glass on the table seconds before he tackled her lightly onto the soft surface of their bed.

  * * * *

  In the private dining room, Serena stood proudly next to her husband, wearing the dress she'd married him in. While it wasn't anywhere as fancy as the other women's, Zane decided she looked beautiful.

  Cousin Derek was the first to arrive, his clothing reflecting the latest styles of court. He sneered at Zane and made Serena obviously uncomfortable with the look he gave her.

  "Cousin, you surprise me with your wife.” A gauntlet was thrown down, his features narrowing as he continued to undress Serena with his eyes.

  "Since you picked her for me, I would think you knew all about her."

  Derek stiffened at the comment, his dark eyes becoming even blacker. “I don't know what you mean, Cousin. I've been away all these months. I only heard of your wedding at court.” He glanced back to Serena, adding, “If I'd known she was this beautiful, I would have come back sooner."

  Serena coughed, turning away, changing his view as Zane's arm around her waist centered her. DeVore appeared and led Derek into the parlor. They watched her stepmother descend the staircase, her hand on William's arm. Serena sighed and Zane smiled.

  "Relax, wife, things will all work out. You have no fears of her any longer. Trust me?"

  "Of course I do. It's just...” She was forced to abandon her words when the pair neared. “Mother,” she said, acknowledging Lily as she'd been forced to since her own mother had passed. “This is the Duke of Trahorn; Zane, my stepmother, Lily.” He smiled and took her hand, not pressing it to his lips as expected. “And my stepbrother, William."

  Zane gave them both a lingering look, his anger starting to surface until Serena touched his arm. He managed a brief welcome to them both, then made sure they were seated quickly when the king's guard started down the stairs. He looked regal in his own right; the clothing only enhanced his appearance. Serena had met Henrietta earlier and embraced her on both cheeks, natural warmth between them growing. With minimal words, mostly gestures, the women conversed, the Queen's English much better than Serena's Italian.

  "Well, Zane, we're all here, are you ready for this?” A sly grin paused on his lips Serena couldn't interpret.

  "Best to get on with it,” Zane answered. They turned to go in, but Serena realized there were two guests missing.

  "My lord, the Earl of Huxley and his wife have not joined us yet.” It would be a huge slight to be seated before all the guests arrived. It was a huge slight to the king to be late. None of it bode well.

  The king laughed openly and assured her they would arrive soon. True to his word, minutes later, DeVore opened the door to Earl Huxley and Fiona. A hushed silence entered with them, nobody verbally acknowledging Fiona wearing the gold dress made for Serena, now ruined with ink, the stain dried and looking brittle. Her eyes were puffy, her face blotchy, her hair absent of any style. It would be obvious to anyone, she was beyond embarrassed. Her eyes were cast down, refusing to meet anyone's look.

  "Ah, there you are. We've been waiting for you. Apparently, Fiona doesn't mind keeping the king waiting for his supper.” Charles’ words stung, yet she still didn't raise her eyes to look at him.

  "My apologies, my lord,” was all the older man could muster, his embarrassment apparent. They took the remaining seats at the small table, not acknowledging anyone else in the room.

  The king and Zane had a wonderful meal, laughing and enjoying each course. Serena managed a few bites of each course and centered her conversation to Henrietta, discussing menus. The rest of the guests were strangely quiet, only answering a question when put directly to them. Fiona had not touched a bite
, her hands folded in her lap, her head cast down. Strangely, William and Derek were the only two who drank copious amounts of wine. Serena felt Lily's glare the whole time. And Lily's taunt finally turned the situation.

  "One would think after being the duchess for three months, you'd have better meals, Serena. Everything is quite bland, don't you agree, my lord?” Towards the king, she flashed her smile that, in younger years turned every man's head. She was flustered by his reply that the meal was to his liking. And he wasn't particularly partial to honey these days.

  It was hard not to keep an eye on Fiona, her face was flushed so red. Derek and William became strangely quiet.

  "Derek, you chose not to join the festival this afternoon.” Charles waited for his answer and wasn't surprised when he was regaled with a horrible travel story, all just to get to Zane's celebration. Nobody seemed to care he was inconvenienced and his words fell to silence.

  "William, you and your mother also avoided the festival, even though you arrived last night.” Charles lifted his cup to his lips, hiding his smile at Zane's taunt.

  "It was a long journey, my lord.” He finished his wine and nodded to the butler to refill his glass. Lily added it had been a tiresome journey for them and they had spent the day in chambers, recovering from the ordeal.

  "Then perhaps this will be your last visit, seeing as the journey taxes you so."

  Lily had no witty comeback to the king and only smiled. Zane gave DeVore a look and all the staff left the room, leaving them with a jarring silence.

  "I would hope you will enjoy the rest of your journey, Lady Elgar, as it will be a long one."

  She couldn't hide her stunned expression. “Sir, going back to my homeland will be a pleasure. There, our keep is run..."

  "Yes, with an iron hand. That's not what I meant."

  Henrietta glanced at her husband, but didn't interfere. Instead, she settled back in her seat, waiting, the satisfaction of knowing in her eyes.

  "You confuse me, sir,” Lily managed.

  "Yes, but I'll explain soon.” He cleared his throat and everyone sat a bit taller in their seats. “You see, Lady Elgar, you will not be going back to Bristol.” Her gasp was audible, her face confused. “I've decided some changes are in order and tonight we are all here to receive them.” With a suitable pause for a sip of his wine, he continued. “I've decided you will travel to Italy. My dear wife—” He turned and took Henrietta's hand under his. “—has family who will take you in."

  "I don't understand, my lord. My place is at Castle Elgar. It is my home and my right."

  "Ah, yes, your right, but after long consideration, I've decided your staying at Elgar will make it quite uncomfortable for William's new wife."

  That tidbit made everyone in the room strain forward to hear his words.

  "My lord, you are mistaken. I've not chosen a bride, for I prefer to sample the ladies a few years longer.” William knew this wasn't going well for him, either.

  "You will marry, William. Henrietta has a cousin; I've decided she will make the perfect wife for you. She's kind and smart, and wants to be nearer her dear cousin."

  "But, my lord, I'd rather..."

  "Yes, you would probably, but the decision is made. Henrietta's cousin will be your wife. The ceremony will take place tonight, here in Trahorn's chapel. Isn't it lucky we're all here to witness it."

  "My lord, I don't mean to be rude, but...” Lily began.

  "But you always manage to be, don't you, Lady Elgar.” She was stunned by his words more than if he'd slapped her across the face.

  "Really, sir, you insult me. I've spent my life..."

  "Yes, Lily, we all know how you've spent your life. The rest of it will be in Italy as the wife of Henrietta's cousin. He is a shepherd, goats and pigs; runs a profitable farm.” Everyone watched the color drain from her face. “You'll get used to the farm, as you adjusted to being Lady Elgar when Serena's mother was lost."

  Serena was speechless, as surprised as Lily and William were. Not unhappy, just surprised. Zane gave her his special smile, and she relaxed beside him, his hand clasped over hers.

  "I only did what was necessary,” Lily continued. “I had an unruly stepdaughter to see to and was graced with my William soon after the wedding."

  "Yes, and while I've never been able to prove it, somehow I feel deep inside me, you helped Serena to lose her mother many years before her time.” Serena didn't dare look at the king; instead she stared at her stepmother.

  "You are mistaken, sir.” It was a flat statement from Lily, and a dangerous one.

  "I'll allow you your tongue, my lady, but don't confront me again. I know about you and Lord Elgar, and I know William's true date of birth. Do you deny it?” He waited for an answer and when he got none, he continued. “It is in the best interest of Elgar land you leave it to William and his new wife to oversee. You'll marry as I've indicated. The subject is closed."

  "But I'd have to stay there, miss court..."

  "Yes, that is the idea. And don't plan on any accidents for your new husband. His mother and sister will be there to show you how the farm is run to their liking.” He let out a strange laugh and Serena put her wine to her lips to cover her smile. Zane beamed openly.

  "As to William, you will marry and your wife will keep an eye on Elgar castle from now on. You will also return the land Lord Tamson granted to Serena as her divorce settlement. The horses will be brought here to Serena."

  "But my lord, that's not..."

  "That's my decision, William. Be grateful I don't change it further, especially after your alliance with Derek and Fiona.” William dropped back in his seat, the look on his face as defeated as his mother's.

  For the first time, Fiona looked up. “Ah, I see we have your attention, Countess. “You dishonor the earl in too many ways. But your conspiracy with Derek is not to be forgiven.” She let out only a small gasp before he went on. “Huxley, I suggest you hold a tighter rein on your wife, least she make any plots against your life.” The Earl of Huxley openly paled. “I believe you are not aware of her doings, rather guilty of not controlling your wife properly. I assure you; from now on no further plots will be formed."

  "Your Majesty, I don't understand.” The earl had been completely baffled by the circumstances around him. All he knew was the king's guard had made sure Fiona appeared in the ruined gown.

  "I'm sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but it's necessary for you to understand. Fiona and Derek have been in alliance for years. Before she and Zane became intimate.” The older earl was shaken; he'd had no idea. “She and Derek decided it wouldn't be to their advantage for Zane to continue to control Trahorn. Their only problem was the duke. When he refused to marry Fiona, they decided it was time to eliminate him. Only they weren't very thorough. When Zane survived his accident, which was facilitated with the help of William, her only choice was to marry you for your land and money."

  "I knew you never really loved me, Fiona, but is this true?"

  "No, of course not.” She managed to glance at him but couldn't keep his look.

  "Continue my lord,” Huxley requested. “I'm very curious."

  "It seems William and Derek knew each other from court. And each had a need. William to be rid of a stepsister who kept an eye on her homeland too closely for his comfort. His rape of the land and its treasures was reason enough for him to want her out of his dealings. But he wasn't aware of the bargain she struck with Orson Tamson. She was still too close for his comfort, knew the villagers kept her apprised of his dealings."

  "He is a kind man, sir, we meant no harm,” Serena put in. “Only a conclusion we both could live with."

  "Yes, Serena. I know all about your bargain with Orson. He and Ulrich were both very forthright when I spoke with them on the way here. Which is why William will return the land to him and the horses to you.” She couldn't hold back the smile and Zane laughed openly at her. The idea of having her horses back made her smile with genuine happiness.

 
; "Oh, Serena,” he said quietly, not wanting to ruin the king's plan. His hand pulled the sling from his neck and he flexed his bad arm, the gasp from Fiona and Derek both audible. “Later, wife,” he added, using his ‘bad’ arm to pull her closer.

  "As for you, Derek, as a cousin now in bad standing, I suggest it will be to your benefit to find work of some kind."

  Derek was outraged; his entire life had been an exercise in just the opposite. “You have no right. I am the only heir to Trahorn and Zane has married a barren woman. This keep and all its holdings are due me. And my time will come."

  "For a man who attempted to murder his cousin, you are brazen. However, after a long discussion with Zane, we've decided to show you some mercy. All of you."

  Everyone in the room sat in silence, waiting for his next words.

  "You, too, will marry tonight, Derek. I've a niece who has land that needs tending."

  "You can't mean to marry me off, too?"

  "Oh, but I do. She is here with us also. You'll meet her later."

  "But surely when Zane does die, I'll be allowed to take my place here at Trahorn."

  "I'd say the duke's children will take that right."

  Derek laughed openly at his king, not a wise thing to do."You have no proof, sir. And you will not manipulate me like you play with these others. You have no right."

  "I have every right; as king of this land, my word rules. Be careful, Derek; prison is not a kind place, especially for such a fancy man like yourself."

  "My lord, whatever you think you might know is wrong information.” It was a feeble attempt from Fiona to salvage her future.

  "My information is correct. You had William come down to Trahorn, and you two managed to get Zane out for a ride. That's where William let the bees loose which spooked his horse and predicated his fall. Only the stings didn't kill him and you were both left with what you believed was a crippled man; one to be manipulated to your liking. If you'd known his injuries weren't life-threatening, I'm sure another alternative would have presented itself.” He laughed again, adding, “That's right, you did. You, Fiona, arranged for your vintner to come work here. And don't try to explain. We know about his tainting the mead and the honey vats."