She stroked the medallion as she held the letter, staring at the sea beyond the cliffs. She forgot to wipe the tears from her eyes before she turned to say good night and get into bed. Thankfully, Gavin made no mention of it. He quietly said good night as she curled beneath the covers.

Chapter 9

When Gwen awoke it was still dark. She knew it had to be somewhere between four and five in the morning, and she groaned as she stretched the aches from her body. She rolled over and hugged the pillow. The room was cast in shadows from the fire, and she could see Gavin’s profile where he sat by the hearth. She felt safe with him and was glad that he’d stayed last night. Not that she’d left him a choice.

She was about to call out to him when she heard the door open. She smiled as Isabelle crept toward the bed. Candle in hand, Isabelle returned her smile and practically beamed when Gwen pulled back the covers and patted  the mattress.

“Good morn, Gwendolyn,” Isabelle whispered softly after she lay down next to her.

“Good morn, Isabelle,” Gwen mimicked.

Isabelle laughed. “I’m so glad you’re awake.”

“Me too. I missed you yesterday.”

“I saw you many times yesterday, Gwendolyn,” Isabelle corrected.

“I know, but we didn’t have any time alone.”

“I suppose you’re right,” she agreed. “How did you lose your guard, Gwendolyn? The only time there’s not been one posted was the night before last.”

Gwen was about to tell her she was wrong, but curiosity got the best of her. “Why didn’t I have a guard the second night if I did on the first?” she asked.

“Greylen was with you, Gwendolyn. You need no guard when he’s about.”

“But wasn’t he with me the first night?” Gwen was under the impression they’d slept together that night. He’d told her so.

“Aye, he was, but Mother added a sleeping potion to his wine that night. Even my brother sought the guard of his own men knowing his abilities had been jeopardized.”

“So normally he wouldn’t seek the guard of his men?”

“Nay, he’d not. My brother could hear a pin drop on the other side of the castle, mayhap as far as Edinburgh.”

“His senses can’t be that heightened, Isabelle,” Gwen said, rolling her eyes.

“Aye, but they truly are,” Isabelle argued. “Greylen’s abilities are known throughout the land, Gwendolyn. He’s our king’s most skilled champion. ’Tis whispered he’s the fiercest warrior in the realm.”

Gwen hoped she was exaggerating. “Are you sure you’re not confusing him with someone else?” Gwen asked. Isabelle only shook her head, her eyes were wide, and she was looking at Gwen like she were crazy. “Are you ever frightened for him, Isabelle?”

“Nay.” Isabelle scoffed. “’Twould be a grave insult, Gwendolyn. He’s invincible.”