Isabel kept her eyes down and mouth closed. The control this man still had over her blew Blackmane away. But this time, that smug expression on his face was not justified.

‘You sure about that?’ Blackmane asked, looking him straight in the eye.

‘Which part, defender?’

‘The part about them being your biggest advocates.’ He paused for effect. ‘And the part about them being at Hampstead Keep.’

Isabel lifted her gaze, eyes showing life for the first time.

Hodge’s expression darkened. ‘You have no authority over any person within my estate. The only way those two would leave Hampstead Keep would be at my request.’

Now it was Blackmane’s turn to look smug. ‘That may have been true when you left, but a lot has happened since then, my lord. One of those things is that Ita Chapman was found alive and well—despite your best efforts. Another is that her mother was hanged to her death at your request.’

Hodge shifted in his saddle. ‘Events that need to be explained in person so they are not misconstrued.’

One corner of Blackmane’s mouth lifted. ‘I agree. That’s why Ita borrowed a horse and made the journey to Hampstead Keep—before her mother was even buried. She knew they would want to know as soon as possible so they could make arrangements to leave before you returned.’

Isabel pressed a hand to her chest and exhaled a shaky breath. Her relief was palpable.

Hodge’s eyes glazed over. ‘Even if I were to believe you, this changes nothing.’

‘This changes everything,’ Isabel said, speaking for the first time. ‘Everything. It is as if the shackles have been cut from my feet and hands.’

Hodge stared at her, his expression unreadable. The defender kneaded the leather reins between his fingers as he waited to see how the earl would react to this news.

‘Like a knife to the heart,’ Hodge said. ‘But even still, I forgive the vile words that come from your mouth.’ He looked back at Blackmane. ‘That is true love, defender. Love of the rarest kind. Forgiveness is key.’ He raised his chin. ‘Now, I suggest you turn around and go back to Chadora while I am still calm enough to let you leave.’

‘I am coming with you,’ Isabel said urgently, pushing her horse forwards.

One of the guards caught the rein of her horse. Blackmane resisted the urge to slice the man’s arm off at the shoulder.

Hodge pressed his eyes closed, his patience reaching the end of its tether. ‘Do not make a scene. I beg of you.’ Opening his eyes, he narrowed them at Blackmane once again. ‘Last chance to ride away, defender. After that, I will not be held responsible for what my guards do.’

‘You’re rarely held accountable for anything, are you?’ Blackmane replied.

Hodge rolled his eyes heavenward.