Page 35 of The Guardian's Witch

“There wasn’t a place he could go that someone didn’t make some comment.”

“What did he do?” Lisbeth still reeled from the thought.

“His brother was leaving for the Welsh War. He volunteered for the same regiment. It took some special discussions with the king, but the regiment took him. They left the following morning. Jamie said he vowed off women forever.”

“You’re serious.”

“Yes. That’s what he told Jamie.”

Several hours later, the sisters were still in deep conversation, dining on bread and cheese.

“Wait, I picked some apples from the orchard while I was waiting and brought some jam,” Laura added eagerly.

“Laura, Bryce spoke to me about a truce between us.”

“A truce?”

“Ever since Mother and Father died he’s avoided me. I don’t know why. Anyway, he asked for a truce.”

Laura laughed. “Do you remember when we overheard him asking Father for my hand? How Father ranted at the man’s audacity after he left.”

“Yes, but Mother told Father not to fret. The last thing they needed, she said, was the two families at odds. She was certain Ramon would get involved and take Bryce’s grievance to the king. How well Mother maneuvered the situation.” Laura sliced the apple and pushed some over to Lisbeth.

“Yes, Mother knew I loved Jamie and he loved me. He needed a little encouragement.”

“Bryce never forgave you for being promised to another. He was doubly unhappy when he found you married to Jamie.” Lisbeth took up the bread. “Perhaps that’s why he’s preferred to stay at a distance from us.”

“I don’t know his intention. I’ve never been comfortable in his presence. He’s arrogant with an air of self-importance.” She looked thoughtfully at her sister, a slice of bread poised in her hand. “Stay alert.”

“Yes, of course. For a while he was the same Bryce we used to tease. I think he wanted to feel that friendship again. But I may be imagining it.” said Lisbeth

“Perhaps you should tell Alex. After all, he’s your protector. Let him handle Bryce.”

“No. They’re good friends. He would never consider there was anything amiss. I’ll take care of this myself.”

“I’ll tell Jamie. He’ll know what to do.”

“What must I do?” Jamie strolled in from the garden.

Laura dropped the bread on the table, flew into Jamie’s arms, and kissed him soundly.

“Now don’t distract me, wife. What must I do?”

“I told Laura that Bryce approached me and asked for a truce.” Lisbeth licked the sticky jam from her fingers.

“And she wants to handle it herself. I told her to tell Alex, but she refuses so I told her you’d know if she should.”

“Did you now.” He kissed the tip of his wife’s nose. “Well, if you’ve told your big sister I would give her my counsel, then I will.” He tucked Laura to his side and faced Lisbeth. “Your little sister is correct. You should tell Alex.”

“But Jamie, I’m certain it wasn’t anything.”

“No, lass. He’s your... protector and should know. I’m certain if you think on it that you will agree.”

“I’ll give it some thought.” Her brows furrowed as she and Laura cleaned up their meal.

“Now, wife, did you two enjoy your visit?”

“Yes, I had a wonderful time, Jamie.”

---