Duncan turned and looked only at Gwen as he spoke, his fury barely contained. “She acts as though she eats every day, but she throws her food to the fire when she thinks we’re not watching.” He continued to glare, as if daring her to argue. “I fear she is worse than before.”

“Leave us.”

Gwen sat on the bed next to Greylen, placing the tray beside his legs.

“Bite for bite, Gwen, or I’ll have nothing.”

“Greylen…” She started to argue but saw his look. He might be weak, but his determination and command were as strong as ever.

“You heard me.”

“Very well,” she conceded, “but you first.”

It took forever. Gwen went slowly, spooning him broth and small bits of bread, careful of upsetting his stomach. She continued until both trays were emptied.

“Gwen, what were you thinking?” he asked. “You’d starve yourself to death had I not made it?” He’d only meant it as a gentle chide, but she turned away. “Good God, Gwen, ’tis true?”

“I don’t know what I’d do without you, Greylen. This is my home. But only because of you.”

Chapter 27

What a difference a day makes.

’Twas a sentiment his wife used.

Greylen always had an aptitude for seeing beneath the surface, but now ’twas deeper. His perception held new qualities. And, although he was terribly dismayed with Gavin’s absence, ’twas only with sheer control and authority that he handled the tasks before him.

Most important of which, the task of cleaning up the incredible mess he had awoken to. He knew Gwen had saved his life and though he arrogantly believed nothing would ever fell him, his mortality had been thrown in his face. Secondly, his wife would rather die than be without him. And, as ridiculous as that was, he could understand her fears. This was not the life she was born to, though she was born to be here all the same. In addition, his best friend was gone, mistakenly believing he’d been cast aside. And as if he needed any more grief, Isabelle was inconsolable, certain that Gavin would never return.

He took the burden on himself, determined to do everything in his power to restore the balance he and his family had known. Now ’twas his turn to make the best of their predicament. His wife needed reassurance, his friend needed to come home, and his sister… Well, his sister needed a good smack in the head.

Malcolm, he decided, could wait. Greylen knew he and his family were safe. No one could breach the land and he’d already sent missives to his king demanding justice by his ruler or at his own hand should he be lucky enough to find the miscreant first.