In fact, it was the window seat in the study where she sat on the eighth day after Greylen’s departure when riders approached the holding. It was just before their evening meal and she watched as Gavin went to greet them in the bailey. By the time he stood before them, Duncan, Kevin, and Hugh were already at his side. One of the riders dismounted while the other six remained. After what seemed an eternity, Gavin finally turned, calling orders to the men as he strode back to the keep. Gwen hurried from the study and nearly bumped into Isabelle. They waited in the hallway, and Isabelle took Gwen’s hand as they looked worriedly to Gavin when he entered the foyer.

“’Tis a missive from Greylen,” he explained. “He calls for two hundred men.”

“I don’t understand,” Gwen said. She was shaking and felt Isabelle do the same.

“Greylen was called to witness a trial. The accused attempted to take the life of our sovereign. During its course, the weak man crumbled and implicated another.” Gavin spat the words, clearly disgusted by the cowardly act.

“Do you ride as well?” Isabelle asked calmly. But Gwen knew it was an act. She’d already lost the feeling in her hand from Isabelle’s grasp.

“Nay, your brother orders that I remain. Duncan will ride with our troops and the king’s men who brought the missive. Greylen awaits their arrival, satisfied to have three men-at-arms and the king’s men as well. He’s confident their charge will be swift and only calls so many to make his point. The game is over.” Gavin began walking toward the study, then turned after a few steps. “Lady Gwendolyn, I’ll see you now. Alone.”

Isabelle and Gwen shared a worrisome look before Gwen squeezed her hand and followed him. It was only when he closed the door that she noticed the package in his hand. It was wrapped in a plain cloth, the size of an overly large book.

He held it out to her. “’Tis from Greylen. Would you like some privacy?”

“Nay, Gavin, stay.” Gwen sat in her favorite spot atop the settee and slowly unwrapped the cloth. She was surprised to find a beautiful rose-colored velvet bag beneath, further hiding the contents.

“He’d not want anyone to know for whom it was intended and covered it plainly,” Gavin explained. “Only his missive informed me ’twas a gift for you.”

Gwen untied the gold braided cord and held her breath as she looked inside. It was a carved wooden box inlaid with large, colorful jewels. She carefully pulled it out and ran her fingers across the top. The stones were set deep within the lid, and the craftsmanship was outstanding. She slowly opened the top and smiled at Gavin. There was a letter inside, sealed with his crest. The infamous dragon.