He’d all but forgotten its existence. Now, however, its presence unsettled him. He walked to her as she stood up on the trunk, a tremor causing him to kiss her quickly and take his leave.

He was shaking by the time he leaned against the closed door outside of their chamber.

From an ominous chill that ran the length of his spine.

Gwen had another long day. Big surprise. After breakfast with Lady Madelyn and Isabelle, she gave serious thought to what she could do. She already helped Lady Madelyn when someone was injured or became ill, which, thank God, didn’t happen often.

It was a good thing she was married, she decided. She could only imagine trying to support herself being the village doctor. She’d probably live in a shack filled with animal bladders and other gross things people would try to pay her with. Ugh.

“What bothers you, daughter?” Lady Madelyn inquired as she embroidered in the library.

“I don’t know what to do with myself.” Gwen shrugged.

“’Twill come in time,” Lady Madelyn said to her, smiling over her work.

“I noticed the children watch as their parents tend chores. Do you think I could teach them a game?” Gwen asked.

“Of course,” Lady Madelyn said quickly. “Though they, too, study in the late-morning hours.”

“I know but maybe they could play in the courtyard after they finish.”

“Gwendolyn, you needn’t ask my permission.” Lady Madelyn scoffed. “’Tis you who are mistress now.”

“Lady Madelyn—Mother,” Gwen corrected after receiving a disapproving look. “This castle runs itself. I wouldn’t know the first thing of doing it, nor would I interfere.”

“You could show Cook how to prepare the meals you and my children enjoy, not to mention Gavin.”

“You’ve found us out, have you?” Gwen said with  a laugh.

“Aye, dear.” Lady Madelyn smiled. “And though I’d never intrude, I’ve heard you’re quite the cook.”

“Well, I guess I can start there, but would you help me with something else?”

“Of course.”

“Greylen was wearing a pair of calfskin breeches this morning. Do you have more of that material?”

“Aye, we’ve a room full of cloths and supplies.”

“If I explain what I need, would you make something for me?”

Lady Madelyn listened to Gwen’s instructions and informed her she would be done after their noon meal. Gwen left the library and sought Cook next, delicately broaching the subject of recipes. Thankfully, Cook was more than happy to listen to her suggestions.

Finding a new purpose was easier than she thought.

Gwen spent the rest of the morning knocking on cottage doors along the path. Connell had her guard today, and he stood quietly as she explained to the mothers what she wished to do. He helped her place flags at either end of the courtyard. “What of this, Lady Gwendolyn?” he asked, holding up the item that Lady Madelyn had fashioned.