Narrow tables sat on either side of the doors with oil lamps, ashtrays, and knickknacks. To her right was a large round table with seven chairs and to her left was a sitting area with a settee, as well as more chairs and tables. The stone floor was covered with an expensive silk rug, its pattern woven with dark threads, which were highlighted with gold. The walls were paneled in the same rich-colored wood as the desk, but they were covered from floor to ceiling with framed maps. The ones to her right were filled with tacks and markers. The ceiling was paneled as well.

Gwen brushed her hands over everything as she walked slowly through the room. She didn’t miss a single item. When she stopped behind his desk, she looked at Gavin. He nodded, and she sat in Greylen’s chair. She ran her hands over the desk and the items on top. There was a large burgundy blotter and matching trays filled with parchment and scrolls of paper. A quill and ink cup lay in the center, and brass tools scattered all around. There was a compass and something that she knew measured distance on a map, and a magnifying glass as well. The desk had three drawers, each of them with brass handles and a lock.

“Would you like the key, lady?” Gavin questioned.

“Nay.” She shook her head. The word came so easily, and she saw Isabelle and Gavin smile at each other. “I meant no, Gavin. It’s all right.”

“Come, Gwendolyn, you must see the library,” Isabelle exclaimed, clapping her hands.

“’Tis even better.”

Gwen had no idea how they could top this room, but Isabelle’s excitement was contagious. They waited just outside the doors as Gavin extinguished the lamps. And sadly, Gwen felt a loss that she had to leave.

“You may return anytime you wish, Lady Gwendolyn,” Gavin told her, sensing her reluctance. “You need only ask. Isabelle, however, is correct. You’ll be more pleased with the library.”

They walked farther down the hallway and stopped at the room next to the study. Isabelle swatted Gavin’s arm impatiently. “Go and light the wicks already. Hurry,” she demanded.

He turned to look at them. “Remain here until I’ve finished.”

It was an order, and Gwen wondered why he felt the need to be so stern. She was further surprised when he closed the doors behind him. A few minutes later Gavin came out, leaving the doors slightly ajar. “You may go in now, lady.”

Gwen turned as she entered the room. The doors closed behind her. They left her alone. When she turned again, she was completely unprepared. Her hands came to her face and the air rushed from her lungs. Her eyes suddenly filled with tears and she stood there, staring at the incredible image in front of her. It was a portrait. The room was filled with them.