“Don’t go,” she pleaded. “Not until you’ve talked to Greylen.”

“I can’t wait. I have to find Malcolm before he gets too far. If Greylen wishes to see me…” Gavin didn’t finish, as if he believed Greylen would never wish to see him.

“I’ve never felt this pain before, Gavin. I can’t lose you now.”

Gavin gathered her in his arms again. “You’ve more strength than any woman I’ve ever known, Gwendolyn MacGreggor. I’ve a feeling you’ll be fine.”

“Oh, Gavin, I love you. I love you so much.”

“I love you, too, Gwen.” He wiped at her tears as his ran freely, pulling her into his arms to hold her tight. He held her a moment longer, then pressed his lips to her forehead.

Then he left her chamber and the life only she could understand how much he loved.

Chapter 26

The next twelve days were the longest of Gwen’s life. Greylen lay trapped in unconsciousness, first with fever and then with a stillness that terrified her. His vitals were stronger, but his mind remained quiet.

She soaked linens with a mixture of salt and sugar, slowly squeezing the liquid in his mouth, then carefully coaxing it down his throat. She talked to him endlessly and when she became too tired, his men, or Lady Madelyn and Isabelle, took over. She lost her appetite and now only pretended to eat as Greylen’s men watched. They didn’t argue with her but assured her that Greylen would be furious when he awoke. She prayed they were right.

But as the days stretched by, her hope began to fade.

It was on that twelfth night that she finally allowed herself to crawl into bed. His wounds were healing, and she was sure that if she stayed on the other side of the bed, she wouldn’t disturb him. She laid her head on the pillow, her tears falling down the side of her face as she looked at Greylen. She couldn’t imagine what she’d do without him. In only a few short months he’d become everything to her. Her life would be meaningless without him.

Sleep came easily, her strength nearly gone as she refused to eat. Her wedding band slipped from her finger two days ago and now hung from the cord that held Greylen’s medallion. Secretly, she wished to join him, to find that oblivion he rested in.

She had the most wonderful dreams that night. Greylen was well again, and they made love on the beach as they watched the sunrise. She could feel the sun’s warmth on her cheek and fought to stay in the dream’s embrace rather than the nightmare she’d wake to.

When she opened her eyes, it was to see a pair of solid black ones looking back.

“Haven’t I told you…there are no sides to this bed?”