“Every—” he started weakly, then realized that he’d gone too far as her eyes widened with fear. “Everything is fine,” he corrected quickly. “I just feel a bit tired.” Better—definitely better. She took control again.

“Well, we’ll not take any chances,” she said, shaking her head. “You’re to stay in bed today, husband.” As soon as the words were out, fear flashed across her face, as if she realized that she’d given him an order and looked back cautiously. “All right?”

“Aye, Gwen,” he answered, taking her hand. “I’ll stay abed. You know what’s best, love.”

She smiled and for the rest of the day took charge of his care. She wrote items on a list so that Cook could prepare a soup for him and left only to go to the nursery to feed Tristan. And each time that she passed through the doors, he leaped from the bed to warm himself again.

Midday, Gwen called for a bath and washed him before returning him to their bed. Her orders to the servants, wary at first, came more easily as the hours passed. Finally, Gavin came in the afternoon.

“Gwen, I need your assistance,” he said, stepping into the room. “You’re the only one who can help.”

“Gavin, Greylen’s not well,” she returned, waving toward the bed. “Perhaps someone else could help you.”

“Nay.” He shook his head. “The men are busy training. I’ve begun a new boxing routine, but I can’t find the right sequence.”

“Go on, Gwen,” Greylen pushed. “I won’t leave the bed.”

“Greylen, you’re sick. I’m not going—”

“’Twould make me feel better,” he offered her with a weak smile.

“Very well.” She sighed. “But I’m not leaving.” Greylen saw the angered look she cast at Gavin. His wife was preoccupied, something he’d made sure of. He knew ’twas the only reason she agreed.

Greylen watched as Gwen joined Gavin by the fire. Gavin explained that he first wished to show Gwen the routine he’d come up with, adding that he hoped she could improve it. Gwen looked to Greylen, and he nodded his encouragement. His wife turned then and bowed to Gavin.

Gavin started slowly, and though Gwen took all of his blows, ’twas long minutes before Greylen saw the fight stir within her. With its first glimmer, Gavin lashed out with everything he had, leaving her no choice but to defend herself. Greylen nodded him on, smiling now as he continued with his silent orders for Gavin to push Gwen even more. She was breathless when the sequence ended and took a drink of water before returning.