The Marquis' Mystical Witch (BookStrand Publishing Romance) (25 page)

“I want you to take a message for me.” Wulf scribbled the name of the village. “My wife and her sister are visiting their grandmother. Do you know how to find this village?”

“Yes, I can find it.”

“My wife’s grandmother’s name is Humfrey. Someone can direct you to her.” He stepped around his desk. “I am going to write to my wife. Give her the letter and stay close. See that she and her sister arrive home safely. Is that understood?”

He nodded. “Yes.”

“If you need help, send for Garr at my estate. You can trust him.”

“I will do as you ask.” Hawley put down his cup and rose.

“Go to the kitchen and tell them to feed you and pack you a meal. I’ll have Bailey tell the groomsman to pick out a fast horse.” Wulf walked with him to the door. “You’ll have money to change horses as needed. Get there as quickly as you can.”

“You can count on me, Lord Radford.”

“Ask my butler to come to my study.”

Wulf wrote a short note and closed it with his seal. When Bailey knocked, he called for him to enter.

“Get the fastest horse, except Batair, ready to go. Batair would never let the man near him. Give him this letter and purse.”

Bailey nodded and hurried away.

Wulf called for his valet. He would seek out his solicitor and prepare to head home by dawn tomorrow. He hoped Akers would be at the dance tonight. His hands clenched with the desire to wrap them around the man’s throat. But he must be careful. He wanted to end any risk to Thea for good.

Wulf followed Jane and his mother as they entered the Clarkson’s grand salon. The room smelled of fresh flowers and perfumes. People packed the large area and a band sat in the far corner prepared to play.

He noted a tall, blond-haired man heading in their direction. Wulf glanced at Jane and saw her sweet smile. So this was the one she favored. His coat and breeches were black, and his shirt collar although high was not as outrageous as some. When he arrived at Jane’s side, his smile lit his face. Most certainly, his sister had charmed this one.

“Wulf,” Jane said, “may I introduce you to Lord Stanley? His father is the Earl of Northcutt.” She looked up at Lord Stanley. “This is my brother, Lord Radford.”

A firm hand clasp and steady regard, along with his sensible dress, helped reassure Wulf about Jane’s choice. Also Wulf respected Lord Northcutt. He was a fine man with an honorable reputation.

“I remember meeting your father." Wulf said.

Lord Stanley nodded. “He mentioned making your acquaintance some time ago. He said you have not been to town in the past few years.”

Although not directed as a question, Wulf knew it was. “I prefer the country.” He motioned with his hand, “Attending balls and afternoon events are not something I care about. I do care about my sister though and will always do what is needed to see she is happy.” The words, though spoken in a mild tone, were a warning, and he saw from the flicker in Lord Stanley’s eyes that he understood.

“I would expect nothing less, Lord Radford.” He smiled at Jane, then went eye to eye with Wulf. “Might I request an audience with you in the near future?”

“Regretfully, I must return home early tomorrow. A bit of an emergency.” Wulf saw the sadness come into his sister's eyes. He didn't want to disappoint Jane and he wasn't sure when he'd be back in town. "Perhaps we could step outside for a few minutes." Wulf smiled at his sister. "If the ladies will excuse us."

Jane blushed and nodded yes. His mother, for once, smiled agreeably.

Wulf led the way, and they stepped out onto the cool, dark veranda. Faint light and the sound of music came through the French windows.

Lord Stanley cleared his throat and took several more steps away from Wulf. "I had not expected to see you tonight."

"Nor did my family. What did you want to discuss?"

A faint smile crossed the younger man's face. "I have grown very fond of your sister and would like to ask for your permission to marry her."

"Fond?" Wulf quirked his eyebrow.

Lord Stanley's eyes met Wulf's. "I love her. I understand it must seem quick, but she is—wonderful. I will take very good care of her."

"You certainly will or you will have to deal with me." Wulf didn't smile.

"Does that mean you give us your permission?"

"I'd take longer, but my sister and mother would probably make my life miserable," Wulf said, and finally smiled. Relief washed over Lord Stanley's face.

"Thank you, Lord Radford."

"We'd better return to the ladies and ease their worried minds." Wulf motioned the young man ahead of him and watched his sister's bright smile when she saw the answer in her future husband's face.

Lord Stanley bowed and asked Jane to dance. She stopped before going onto the dance floor and gave Wulf a hug.

"Thank you, Wulf," she whispered.

“He is a good match and will be kind to her,” Lady Radford said.

“I'm sure he will.” Wulf excused himself and strolled away, looking for Akers.

“Hello, what brings you to town? Surely, you haven't grown tired of married life already?”

Turning, Wulf found Jeffrey behind him. “Business, but I have a slight emergency and must return home tomorrow.”

“Need any assistance?”

“I might, but not at the moment.”

“Send word and I will come at once whenever or wherever you need me.”

“Thank you. What is keeping you here? You are usually as anxious as me to leave.”

“Mama and my sisters have come up with all kinds of excuses to need me. The ulterior motive is, of course, to see me wed. That is not going to happen. However, occasionally I have to let them think I am playing along with their plans.”

Wulf laughed. “A mother and three sisters would be a frightening army to resist.”

Jeffrey nodded in agreement. “I must admit they are beginning to wear me down. Sometimes I think it would be best to find an agreeable lady to marry.” He shrugged. “But, I would have to live with her and no doubt she would harp on me to stay in town.”

Wulf constantly scanned the crowd as they talked. “I am glad I got to see you tonight. You must come visit us when you return to your lodge.”

“Who are you looking for?”

“What?”

“You are looking for someone.”

“Lord Akers.”

“I didn’t think you were friends,” Jeffrey said, a sardonic note in his voice.

“You know we aren’t.”

Jane and Lord Stanley danced by, and Jane lifted her hand in greeting. “Jane has made her choice. Do you know him?”

Jeffrey studied the man as they danced out of sight. “Good family. He’s the oldest son of the Earl of Northcutt. Gossip says he’s a rather serious young man. Not one of the hell raisers.” Jeffrey jerked his head around to the opposite side of the dance floor. “Look to your left.”

“Akers. I have to go.” Wulf started to walk away.

“Don’t forget I'm available, if needed.”

Wulf waved, and careful not to attract Akers attention, he slipped through the noisy crowd to come up behind the man.

“Akers.” Wulf clamped a firm hand on his shoulder.

Lord Akers jerked and pulled himself out of Wulf’s grasp. “Radford. Thought you were off in the country with your bride?”

“No. Heard you were still talking about her. I wanted to remind you she is under my protection.”

Akers stuttered, “I, I don’t know what you mean.”

“I believe you do. Stay away from what is mine.”

“Are you threatening me?”

“However you wish to take it. You really do not want to make me angry.” Wulf let his fury show in his eyes. Akers stepped back from him. Taking a deep breath, Wulf gave Akers a smile showing sharp white teeth.

Akers turned and fled. Wulf let out a harsh laugh. Several people glanced in his direction and then went on with their conversations. The monster inside stirred. Wulf knew, if necessary, he would tear Akers limb from limb to save Thea. She was his and no one else would touch her.

Wulf headed to the front door, stopping only to ask Jeffrey to see his sister and mother home. He had one more item to take care of before leaving tomorrow.

Returning home, Wulf went directly to his study. He moved the large picture hung on his back wall, and opened his safe to take out a long slim box and a smaller one. Placing them on his desk, he removed the lids.

Red rubies looked like drops of blood against the white satin. Wulf visualized the stones lying against Thea’s pale throat, and the earrings resting beside her coal black hair. She would look magnificent. His desire for her, never far from the surface, sizzled through his veins.

Groaning, he sank into his chair. What had he done? He'd wanted a sensible, convenient marriage. The words mocked him, and he raked his fingers through his hair. He’d chosen a woman to marry that he couldn’t ignore.

The hunger to touch her, taste her, sink inside of her grew stronger everyday. Fear clutched his heart at the thought of her in Akers’ hands. He went to the curtains and peered out. No hint of dawn. He couldn’t wait. He would leave a message for Bailey to follow.

Rushing upstairs, he threw a few items into a leather pouch and went to the small stable in back. He wanted to be at Thea's side if she was in danger.

The small stable boy stirred and started to get up. Wulf waved for him to stay where he was.

“I can manage,” he said and proceeded to saddle Batair. “We have a long ride tonight,” he whispered to the horse and the proud stallion shook his head as though in agreement.

Cool night air blew across Wulf’s face as he galloped out of town. He’d forgotten to leave a note for his mother and Jane. Too late now. He would forge ahead.

* * * *

Thea enjoyed sitting at Grandmamma's feet while listening to tales of her mother’s youth. Elvie seemed similarly fascinated. The old woman guided Elvie, telling her about her gift and teaching her how to strengthen it. She and Thea talked no more about Thea’s future and tasks.

They'd spent a peaceful day outdoors and now, tonight, they enjoyed a warm fire and stories. Thea had not felt so comfortable since losing her parents, but it would end soon. She must return to her new home and the husband she didn’t want to admit she loved.

Grandmamma stoked the fire and told them to prepare for bed. “Our time is coming to an end.” She glanced at Thea. “You both have things you must do. And I must tell you goodbye most likely for the last time.”

Thea and Elvie started to protest, but she held up her hand. “It is time. I am old and weary and fear death less than some things of this world.” She reached out and hugged them tight. With a thin bony finger, she brushed the teardrops from Thea’s face. “You will do well, child. Remember, have faith and let
no doubt
enter your mind. Trust your instincts.”

Thea nodded. Cold seeped around her when Grandmamma turned to Elvie. There were things she didn’t understand ahead of her. She must conquer them for her and Elvie and perhaps for Wulf also. Outside, in the dark, she sensed something crouched close and threatening. A chill went down her spine.

Going around the room, she gathered her things, especially the new herbs and ointments. Grandmamma watched and nodded her head.

“It is time to be prepared. Go child.” Grandmamma gave Elvie a push. “Be ready for the morning.” When Elvie closed the bedroom door, she turned to Thea. "I am going to hide the book. When you return and I am no longer here, you will find it behind these bricks. It holds the secrets of our gifts. Now go to bed," her grandmother said softly.

Thea watched as her grandmother hid the book where she'd shown her.

Then, she sat in her rocker and hummed an unfamiliar tune.

It seemed Thea had only closed her eyes when she heard or felt the thunder of horse’s hooves. Pulling on her robe, she crept to the window. Moonlight shone across the yard, but there was nothing to see.

Going back to her pallet, she pulled the covers high over her head and huddled as she did when she was a small child and feared the dark. For a second, she pretended nothing could hurt her. Her blanket created a magical defense and she imagined her grandmother as still young and vibrant.

Hooves clattered louder and harder. The noise vibrated in her ears and through her head. There was no place to hide from the future. Hard knocks on the door brought Thea straight up. Dawn had begun to cast a faint light across her pallet. Grandmamma came out of the bedroom, her nightcap on her head and a wool wrap around her shoulders. Cracking the door a slit, she peered out.

“Who is there and what do you want?” she demanded, her voice gruff from sleeping.

Thea heard a male voice, but not the words. Her grandmother nodded and shut the door. “He has sent someone to bring you home. Gather your things. Move quickly. There is no time to spare.”

Elvie came out of the bedroom yawning. “What is it, Grandmamma? Can we not eat breakfast before we leave?”

“No. Hurry, child. It is best for you to be under the protection of your brother-in-law and not a tired old lady.”