Page 62 of The Guardian's Witch

“You’re enjoying His Majesty?” Alex came up beside her. He didn’t look at her, but instead followed the king with his eyes.

“I don’t remember him being humorous.” Her voice was quiet.

“Yes, he’s been told of some success in Wales. He may reactivate my old regiment. I may leave for Wales shortly.”

“You would leave Glen Kirk?” Her heart dropped at the thought.

“His Majesty discussed it with me before I left London. Once the raiders are eliminated I will take my men to Wales.” He still stared at the king’s back.

She’d never thought he would leave. A flash of grief ripped through her but she was distracted by a commotion behind them. A man, his brother Cameron she thought, entered the Great Hall with a woman. They appeared to be the center of attention.

“Who is that woman?”

Alex looked at the pair and turned to Lisbeth. “My brother Cameron and Lady Barbara Kincaid.”

He schooled his face well but not well enough. She imagined she saw passion in his eyes. So, Lady Barbara still held his heart. “I’m certain His Majesty will accommodate you. He’s a great supporter of yours. After all, he did award you Glen Kirk, and me. I’m certain when you leave he can easily give us both to someone else.” She turned on her heel and steered herself away from him.

* * *

Alex stood there stunned. “Lisbeth...”

“Alex, come quickly. His Majesty is asking for you.” Damian tugged at his sleeve. “He’s called for you twice.”

“Yes, I’m coming.” He glanced and watched her climb the stairs. She turned in time to catch his eye. Her face was emotionless. She cared so little.

He had pictured this day so differently. The Great Hall filled with courtiers, his family and the king. In his mind’s eye he saw people clamoring for his attention and listening to every word he spoke. He looked at the empty staircase. There was nothing he could do. How would he fix it with Lisbeth? Not her rejection, but what he had done to her. The misery of knowing the pain he’d caused was a heavy weight on his chest.

“Alex, he’s waiting,” called Damian from the door.

Alex put on a smile. “I’m coming,” he said and stepped into the room more confident then he felt.

“Alex, there you are.” The king approached him. “Is there somewhere we can speak privately?”

Alex brought the king into his library and closed the door.

“Sire. About Wales, I’d like to speak to you about reinstating my commission.”

The king stroked his chin. “Actually, Alex, that is why I wanted to speak with you. I have other plans for you. I’ve installed many Englishmen in the Welsh houses. I must focus on Scotland. With the ending of the Scottish royal line, succession needs to be established. Their council asked me to arbitrate the successor. I must in order to ensure England’s safety. I need you and your skills with the Scots. You must stay here. Are you sorry you won our bet?” The king’s expression softened. “I thought you would think yourself the luckiest man to win such coveted prizes, Glen Kirk and Lady Lisbeth.”

“Yes, sire, I am most grateful.” He bowed graciously.

He nudged Alex. “Cheer up. Marriage is to be enjoyed.”

“Yes, sire, to be enjoyed.”

“And do you get along with your highland brother-in-law?”

“Sire?”

“Jamie Collins, man. I thought you two would get along well. Wesley spoke of him often. He is loyal and trustworthy. Come, it’s time to join the others. I’m much relieved that Glen Kirk is under your control.” Edward led the way to the Hall.

Alex walked by his side and right into Lady Barbara.

“Alex.” She greeted him cordially.

“Lady Barbara.” He gave her the obligatory bow. “If you will excuse me.” He turned to leave.

“Alex, wait, I want to talk to you.” She reached out for his sleeve.

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