The Seduction of Laird Sinclair

by Kara Griffin

  Clive leaned against the doorjamb and folded his arms over his chest. “What’s bothering you? Are you hiding out in here? I haven’t seen you all day.”

  Callum continued to face the window. He hadn’t told Clive about Keith’s admission of wanting to murder Gavin or of Lydia’s deceit with his brother. Keith was guilt-ridden, but he claimed he had stayed his hand. He shouldn’t hold him in contempt. Callum understood why he’d sought retribution. Time lessened his humiliation and anger. His friend did what he thought was right if what he bespoke was true. Still, the revelation that his brother and Lydia were together brought forth a rage he hadn’t ever felt before.

  He turned to Clive and motioned for him to sit. “I wanted to be the one to tell Elias about Hawisa’s death. It is my responsibility.”

  Clive peaked his fingers and settled his hands on his stomach. “I did the deed and should tell him so when we find him. What makes you think he doesn’t already know she’s dead? We haven’t seen him in weeks. Mayhap he was involved with Hammond’s disappearance too or he might’ve been aware of what Hawisa did to Lydia.”

  “Until I question him, we will not place him in guilt.”

  Clive firmed his lips and nodded. “I suppose you want to believe him innocent because he’s our uncle. But I suspect he might have something to do with Gavin’s death. The man has spewed his hatred of your father, your brother, and you…”

  “But is he capable of murder?”

  “Before you returned, Hammond and his da had many disagreements. Their arguments were beheld by all in the clan. I witnessed a row myself.”

  “We cannot presume Elias harmed Hammond or murdered Gavin. I will find out the truth, eventually.” Callum hoped the answers were favorable and didn’t point to Elias in the disappearance of his cousin or as an accessory to Hawisa’s deed. As much as his avoidance proclaimed his guilt, he wouldn’t accept that Elias had anything to do with his brother’s death either.

  Clive stared ahead in thought.

  He sighed heavily as he pondered his uncle’s deeds. “Elias has always been difficult, but he never showed a cruel side besides his spiteful remarks. But he was a good da and was proud of his children. Perhaps he hides because he’s disappointed at what Hawisa did… Or he’s embarrassed by Hammond’s behavior?”

  Clive leaned forward and set his hands on the top of the desk. “Probably so.” His cousin shrugged his shoulders. “Has Keith contacted you? Will you remedy this strife between you?”

  Callum wouldn’t speak of Keith’s confession until he spoke further with him. Clive admired their friend and he didn’t want his cousin to assume the worst. Keith was the last person to see Gavin alive. As much as he wanted to believe what Keith told him, he couldn’t until it was proved someone else killed Gavin. “Keith hasn’t reached out and I doubt he shall. Keep the search for Elias. When we find him, I shall ask our questions.”

  “I should get back to work, but I wanted to give you this… It just arrived.” He set a missive on the desk. “You should get back to work too, but before I go―”

  “We’ll talk later, Clive.”

  His cousin left without another word and Callum reached for the missive. He spotted Henry’s emblem on the wax seal. After Violet’s near-death experience, he’d written to his friend and had hoped Henry was in a position to find another place where she might be safe. He cracked the seal and read it.

  Sinclair, I hope this missive finds you well. I received your message and understand you have many issues within your clan. I had hoped you and Violet would suit, but if it is not meant to be… I confess I’m relieved because I hold Violet affectionately in my heart. If she’ll have me, she would make me the happiest of men. I’m still exiled in this desolate, god-forsaken place, but soon, I shall make my return to London. There is news that Richard has taken to travel with his closest knights and has left the country. Colfax has gone and it is now safe for Violet to return to England. If she wishes, she may return and reside at my residence. I continue to search for her daughter. Send word if she decides to go and I will have made ready for her. You have my gratitude for keeping her safe and giving her sanctuary. Henry.

  Callum stared at the words until they blurred. He wasn’t sure what he wanted, but he didn’t want her to leave. The thought that Henry wanted her affection, brought forth his ire. The decision was hers though. As much as he abhorred to tell her about Henry’s news, he couldn’t be dishonest. Besides, she probably wanted to leave. Why wouldn’t she? He’d done all he could to keep away from her. His family tried to harm her and practically slew her, and his clan was too unsettled now for him to have a care for his happiness. He had to tell her to go.

  Why did he feel so wretched? He shook the vision of her with Henry from his mind. Callum returned to the training field and exercised his sword arm. He was getting stronger and his shoulder didn’t pain him during or after the workout. His leg continued to cause discomfort, but it wasn’t as noticeable or unbearable. The limp lessened somewhat. Perhaps the salve Henry sent worked better than he’d thought. He’d meant to ask Violet if the healer sent the recipe for the salve, but since he stayed away, he’d forgotten.

  On his way to the keep, he stopped at the gate to receive the nightly sentry report.

  “Laird, this just got dropped off.” The soldier handed him a missive.

  Callum took it and headed toward the castle. He glimpsed at the seal and grimaced and hoped the missive didn’t bring bad news. Before he entered the keep, he stood in the courtyard and opened it.

  Dearest Callum, we are to arrive at your keep in the next day or so. I travel with Robert and our journey is difficult and slow. My dear husband will be pleased to see you again if he’s well enough to leave his tent. We shall arrive soon, please make ready. Annabella

  He folded the parchment and entered the hall. Clive met him at the table. “The king’s son and his wife come. We should be ready to receive them.”

  “Why? I didn’t know we expected them. When do they come?” Clive asked.

  “I invited them. They’ll arrive within a day or so. Have the castle prepared and more guards posted in the keep and around the fortification. We must ensure their safety while they are here. I’ll give them my chamber.”

  “This is not a good time for them to come. Why did you invite them?”

  Callum shrugged his shoulder. “No time is good, especially with the number of people who travel with them, but the king’s son will be welcomed. I cannot turn them away. I need to speak to Annabella about a personal issue.”

  “I suppose we must accommodate them.”

  He suspected Annabella wanted to see him in person after she received his message. “Have a feast prepared and tell the clan. They’ll want to greet their future king.”

  Clive laughed. “I doubt they’d give a shit.”

  “Let us hope there’s no further discord, at least, while they are here.”

  “Mayhap Elias will stay hidden. I’ll set off and make sure the guard and sentry are ready.”

  Callum took his place at the table and was given a trencher of food from a serving lass. He surmised his clansmen and was about to announce their forthcoming guests when Violet entered. She appeared lovely and was garbed in a light green gown. The color suited her and made her brown locks look winsome. Her gaze met his and she stepped near.

  He rose and greeted her. “Lady Violet.”

  She bowed and mumbled a greeting. “May I join you?”

  He nodded and retook his seat.

  “I haven’t seen you in days. Are you well?”

  Callum cleared his throat and took a quick sip of ale. The conversation he would have with her daunted him, but it needed to be done. “I am well, just busy. And you?”

  She fidgeted with her spoon and set it aside. “I am quite well. Dela and I worked in the garden. It is nearly finished. Clive says he will have benches made. We’ll soon get to enjoy it when the blooms flourish.”

  He closed his eyes briefly. �
��I received word from Henry. He says the threat is over and you can return to England. Colfax apparently left the country and travels with Richard, so you’ll be safe.”

  “I don’t understand?” Her eyes shimmered with the beginning of tears.

  “The king and his knights traveled across the channel and left the country. It’s safe for you to return home. Henry wrote that you’re welcome to stay at his manor until his return from exile. I’ll have a good many Sinclair soldiers escort you when you are ready to leave.”

  She scowled and pressed her hands on the rim of the table. “Is that what you want? Do you want me to leave?”

  He wanted to answer nay but nodded. “It is your decision, but aye, you should go. I know you want to find your daughter and perhaps―”

  “What if I wish to stay? Will you give me a reason to?”

  Chapter Eighteen

  Violet sat in her chamber and sniffled back her tears. Throughout the long night, she despaired that Callum wanted her to leave. He gave his nonsense speech about wanting her safety and such, but deep down, she had to accept that he didn’t want her. If he had, he wouldn’t allow any reason to separate them. She should have declared her feelings for him and let it be known she wanted his love in return. With a scoff, she realized she wasn’t able to take a lover and not be committed to him. As much as she tried to remind herself their liaison was limited, in her heart she had hoped for something more.

  Gussy entered the chamber and set another trencher before her, but Violet wouldn’t eat. She’d refused the food her friend brought the night before when she’d eaten nothing at the nightly meal or the morning meal. She wasn’t hungry and her appetite rivaled the state of her despondency.

  “My lady, please, you must eat. Or tell me what troubles you?”

  She shook her head and remained silent. If she spoke of Callum’s rejection it would hurt too much to bear and would bring more tears to her eyes.

  “The clan is full of excitement because the king’s son comes. They’ll have a large feast this night in celebration. You should join us. It will be a jovial time.”

  “I want to be alone.” Violet couldn’t bear to be around others, not when she was so full of dejection. Her sorrowful mood would make for unpleasant company.

  “My Lady, please tell me what’s wrong? It’s unlike you to be overtaken with melancholy.”

  “Callum wants me to leave.” She explained what he’d told her about the king’s travels and that he’d left the country and it was safe to return. “Henry has permitted me to stay at his home. I should go and perhaps I might find Cora.”

  Gussy flopped on the bed next to her. “Oh, what a dreadful situation. You care for him and despair to leave him. So that’s what causes your woe.”

  “Yes, but Callum doesn’t return the sentiment. I want you to stay. You can make a life here with Bailey. I haven’t ever seen you so happy and I won’t be the reason for your sadness.” Violet clasped her hand and gripped it with assurance.

  “But I promised I would always stay with you. I made a vow to Lord Charles and Lord Henry that I’d ensure you were well. I cannot leave you, My Lady, regardless of my heart.”

  Violet sniffled back tears at her friend’s admission. “You will stay here and I won’t hear a word of argument. I shall be well, Gussy. There’s no need to be concerned for me. I’m capable of taking care of myself. I shall return to England and will find a way to search for Cora. There’s nothing here for me.”

  Gussy nodded and squeezed her fingers. “If that’s what you want. But you should come to the feast it will cheer you. Promise me you’ll attend? We shall dress you in a fine gown and do your hair. You’ll be so lovely and it will make you joyful to be garbed so. Dressing finely always brightens my spirit when I’m feeling down. Please…” Gussy pouted and pulled a light blue gown from the wardrobe. It was exquisitely embellished with a row of pearls at the bodice and she’d saved it for a special event.

  Violet pulled herself away from the window casement and nodded. “Very well, but I shall not find joy at the event. I suppose I should attend though since it will likely be my last night here.”

  Gussy spent the next hour getting her ready. By the time she finished, Violet was garbed in the enriched gown and her hair was pulled to a beautiful coif that accentuated her face and neck. She clasped a small earring to her ears and wore her finest jewelry.

  “There, you see, you look beautiful. Callum will probably fall to his knees when he sees you. He won’t want you to leave, not when you look like this.”

  She snorted in objection. “Hah, I doubt that.” With Gussy’s insistence, she left the chamber and reached the hall. No one had entered yet, but the chamber was readied for the feast. Tables were placed throughout the large room and several barrels sat near the buttery.

  “I should go to the kitchen and help Bailey with the food. Will you be well until I return?”

  Violet nodded at Gussy and approached the hearth. She peered at the chair where she’d sat when she first arrived. How different things were now. Then, she’d hoped to win Callum’s affection by employing the rules of enticement. The thought of it almost made her laugh. She was completely enamored of him at first sight. Now, she couldn’t envision her life without him.

  Tears sprang to her eyes. She couldn’t help but weep at the thought of leaving him. Then she envisioned Cora, her sweet babe, all alone in England. Her hope that Henry would find her waned. Sobs tore at her throat and she shook with the terrible, disheartened thoughts.

  “Oh, I’m sorry I don’t mean to intrude.”

  Violet turned and saw a woman approach. She was a tall woman who had a mass of tight blonde curls around her face. Her nose was sharp and her lips taut, but her eyes appeared kind with a soft glint to the blue depths.

  “You’re not intruding. I’m sorry… I am not good company.” Violet couldn’t cease the shudders and her tears streamed her cheeks. She pressed her fingers to her eyes to abate her tears.

  “You’re distressed. I’m sorry for whatever troubles you. Come, let us get a drink and we shall discuss this. There must be something we can do to remedy this.” The woman approached a maid and spoke low to her. She returned with two cups and placed them on a nearby table. “I’ve asked for a few moments of privacy. None shall disturb us. Sit and tell me what brings tears to your lovely eyes.”

  Violet didn’t know why, but she slid on the bench and babbled her problems to the stranger. As the words poured out of her, the more wretched her tale was. “I don’t want to return to England, except my daughter is there and I so desperately want to find her. Yet, there is nothing I can do. The king placed her somewhere and I know not how I might locate her. Then there is Callum.” She wiped at her eyes.

  “Oh, how wretched to have your babe taken away like that. I always thought Richard was a knave, but to be so unfeeling. Worry not, your daughter will return to you. Now, what about Callum?”

  She sniffled and lowered her face. “I care for him, but he wants me to return to England. As much as I want to stay here, I cannot if he doesn’t want me to remain. But how can I leave him, when he needs me?”

  The woman smiled. “Love can sometimes be wearisome. But don’t despair. Callum might have said he wants you to go, but he will likely be miserable if you do. Have you confronted him?”

  “I asked him to give me a reason to stay. He said nothing but walked away. There’s naught I can do to change his mind.”

  The lady pressed her hands atop hers and smiled. “Men can be heartless, now and then. Do you know what I think? I believe he needs to be reminded of his feelings. You should provoke him. Tell him what an arse he’s being. Don’t let him put you off. Sometimes men need to be told what to do. You must tell him what you want and don’t let him balk. Force him to accept you. You must fight for him if he’s what you want.”

  Violet raised her chin. “I do want him. Fight for him? I can’t do that, can I?”

  “Of course you can. If you fight for
him and make him accept you, he’ll have no choice but to submit to his desires. You’re a strong woman. And Callum needs to hear you declare your love for him. If he feels the same, he won’t let you leave. You must do it soon.”

  “I will… I’ll fight for him.” Violet rose. “I should repair myself before the guests arrive. The king’s son and his wife are soon to come. Thank you for being kind. I shall take what you said to heart.”

  “I will see you at the feast.” The woman left her side and made her way outside.

  Violet hurried to her chamber to repair herself. She washed her face and the cool water took her sorrow away. With astounding awe, she couldn’t believe she’d wept in front of Annabella, Scotland’s future queen. The woman was kind to let her speak of her problems. Word of the princess’s marriage and her care had reached England. Charles spoke of her often because apparently, Annabella helped her husband rule Scotland since the king ailed. When the king died, which she’d perceived was imminent, the lady would be queen. Annabella hadn’t given herself away and Violet wondered why she hadn’t introduced herself. The woman would make for a fine ruler. She certainly gave good advice in dealing with Callum.

  Violet sighed deeply and closed her chamber door. She rejoined the feast and found the hall filled with the Sinclair clan. Many stood about in groups and ate and drank. Violet watched Callum from afar. How she wished she could stand beside him. Her heart hurt to gaze at him. He looked handsome in a freshly laundered tunic and tartan. He had removed the whiskers from his face and he beheld a serious mien. No smile met his lips. Concerns kept his expression stern.

  Throughout the night, he sat beside Annabella and their conversation alluded that they were close. He hung on her every word and Annabella on his. Violet wasn’t jealous of the future queen, but she was envious that she held his attention. He’d barely glanced at Violet all evening. She even employed some of the enticement rules to gain his notice. She kept her eyes on him as he moved about the hall and she smiled. When he caught her gaze, he turned away. Nothing worked.