Greylen was surprised that his friend revealed such information of himself, and its telling nature. He also understood now that what Duncan had told him was true. Gavin and Gwendolyn had formed a bond in his absence, yet he was jealous no more.

Thirteenth of June,

’Tis day three of your absence, and your lady’s a creature of habit. Isabelle remains her constant companion and your mother seeks her company in the library after supper. Her will knows no bounds and she tries my patience repeatedly. Yet, once again, ’tis forgotten when I watch her approach the window at night.

Fourteenth of June,

Your lady’s truly perplexing. She smiles gleefully at the simplest things, such as today when she found a blank journal to use among your books in the study. Then she has the nerve to stare me down when I correct her of the simplest impropriety. You should be home on the morrow, ’tis a day I’m grateful for.

Greylen began to smile as he read the next entry. It broadened as he continued.

Fifteenth of June,

Sir, your absence is vexing. My hair is thinning and it seems she rules in your absence. There’s no listening to reason where your lady’s concerned. By the time she’s done shaking her head at me, the leather strip of yours she uses to secure her hair is completely loose. If you’re not heard from soon, I shall gladly begin locking her within her chamber myself.

Sixteenth of June,

I’ve found my first gray hair this morn, and it should be yours. Damn your sorry hide.

Seventeenth of June,

You shall be hanged from a rope…and I will beat you myself…as I light the logs I imagine beneath your feet.

Greylen laughed aloud at the last entry, pleased to know that Gavin truly did have a new friend. And though Gavin’s agitation was apparent, Greylen enjoyed the knowledge that Gwendolyn pushed him as she did. That was the woman he knew for only two short days. God how he missed her.

He folded the letter and reached for the other. ’Twas only one page and when he flipped it over, he was surprised to see his initialed insignia pressed within its seal. Isabelle and his mother each had their own. Only one other would need the use of his.

He held his breath as he spread the parchment, looking at the delicate script before his eyes. A bark of laughter escaped with the first of her words.

Dear Greylen,

You’ll be happy to know, I’ve decided not to kick your ass. And in light of the details you failed to mention before you left, I hope you realize the sacrifice I’m making. If you don’t come home safely, however, I swear I’ll reconsider. On a more pleasant note, I love the gift you sent me. Thank you.