Page 33 of The Guardian's Witch

“I’m on my way to the lodge. Jamie’s bringing Laura today.”

“M’lady, you can’t go alone,” said Ann.

“Lord Alex gave orders you’re not to leave the castle grounds unprotected,” said John.

She stopped and looked at them both. “Yes, yes, I know but I must go to Laura.”

“He worries about your safety. We all worry about your safety.” Ann wiped her hands on her apron.

“I’ve been travelling through the forest, especially to the lodge, most of my life. Why are you afraid?”

“M’lady.” John held his hat in his hand and worried the brim. “It’s not safe. If you want to go to the lodge, I’ll take you there.”

“You don’t—”

“I insist, m’lady.”

She wrapped her cloak around her tightly. “Then let’s be off.”

They tramped quietly through the forest along the riverbank and up the long trail to the lodge. Along the way she hummed the ancient words and renewed the strength of the charms as she passed.

She caught a whiff of the pungent fragrance before she spotted the graceful smoke from the chimney in the distance. “You can go back, John. I’ll be fine from here.”

“No, m’lady. I will see you inside and wait until you’re ready to go back.”

She rushed up the lodge path, opened the door, and squealed with delight at the sight of her sister. The women flew into each other’s arms and held one another close. Perhaps for a few hours she could pretend nothing had changed.

“I’ve missed you.” Laura squeezed her.

“Laura, we should never wait this long. Where are the children? I brought them some treats.” She freed herself from Laura’s grasp and looked around. She pulled a wrapped package from her pouch. “Remember how we used to take these from Ann when she wasn’t looking, and come here to eat them?” She showed Laura the filched cakes wrapped in a cloth.

“They’re not here. They were asleep. Jamie’s sister is with them. I’ll bring them both next time.”

“Where is Jamie? You didn’t come here by yourself?” scolded Lisbeth.

“Of course not. Jamie had one of his men bring me. He’ll come to get me later.” Laura went over to the table. “The children did send you these.” Laura handed her stones.

“Stones?” Lisbeth moved them around in her palm.

“Ah, not just stones. These are very special.” Laura pointed to each one. “They were chosen, washed and polished just for Aunt Lisbeth.”

Lisbeth squeezed her hand shut. “I will cherish them always.” She slipped the stones in her pouch. “You must tell them that I miss them.”

“I will.”

“I found Mother’s diary. It was in one of the chests we put in storage.”

Laura’s surprised expression turned to concern.

“Please, Laura. Don’t look at me like that. I haven’t read it.” Her breath seemed to be stuck in her throat.

“Put it away. You needn’t read it.”

“For a little sister, you’re sounding like my mother. I will remind you I’m older.” They laughed together. The tension of the moment broke. Lisbeth gave her sister a sober look. “I haven’t the courage to read it, not yet. Perhaps you’re right.”

“I’m glad you’ve returned to the castle. It’s about time.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Lisbeth stepped to the hearth to warm her hands. She didn’t feel the heat.

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