Page 30 of Whispers At Dawn
Luc’s solemn reminder that they were surrounded by enemies who could enter their safe haven at any moment shook her to the core for the second time that day. Toulouse was proving to be no less a den of vipers than occupied France. At least you could spot the enemy when they were decorated with Nazi insignia.
They would be playing more of a cunning game, where the wolf was disguised in sheep’s clothing. The rot was spreading deep within the gut of France, and the most dangerous enemy was the trusted one within.
After their disturbing first day, a week passed without anything to report, other than Lizzie and Jack exploring the château grounds and taking a couple of trips into the city.
Jack was growing more restless. ‘I don’t know what we’re supposed to be doing. There’s been no lead for us to follow so far. I mean, yes, some of the characters in the city look like they could easily be ripe pickings for the Resistance but where do we begin without revealing who we are?’
Lizzie agreed they were off to a slow start, but she was enjoying living with Jack in the comfortable tranquil château. If only they could fully relax, it would be heavenly. Waking up each morning and drifting off to sleep at night in Jack’s arms was like a dream come true, and one she had not imagined experiencing until the war was over. Luc was the first member of their families who had seen them living openly as a couple.
‘How about we take a trip into the city this afternoon? That café we visited on the first day seemed like a good place to hang out to meet dissidents. But first, come back to bed,’ Lizzie said.
Jack who was striding around the room, restless, surrendered to her plea and lowered himself back on the giant bed next to Lizzie. The sun streamed in through the open shutters, warming their faces. ‘You make a marvellous case for staying in bed all morning, Wife,’ he said, taking her in his arms. ‘Sorry, I get so uptight when I don’t have a plan.’
‘Well now, you have one,’ she said coyly, tilting her head until her chestnutwaves cascaded over one porcelain shoulder and Jack sucked in his breath, instantly distracted from his problem.
‘You’re right. The day can wait a while longer to begin. I have more important things to do first,’ he said, kissing Lizzie and making love to her until she moaned in delight under his exquisite attentions.
Luc was nowhere in sight when they went out to the terrace where they usually took breakfast, and when Jack enquired after the master of the house, the maid informed him Luc had left to do his rounds of the vineyards several hours earlier.
‘I think it will be wise if I take more of an active role in learning how the vineyards and the business operate,’ Jack said, between sips of coffee.
Lizzie savoured her portion of baguette and thinly sliced cheese. ‘Yes, that sounds like a good idea. If we do get any unwelcome guests asking awkward questions, you will be more believable. Should I join you? I also need to pass muster if I’m quizzed about the wine business. What we need to do seems a bit vague to me, this time.’
‘It does,’ Jack agreed. ‘That’s what was getting to me earlier. Building a network from scratch is always going to be a frustrating game, but something will pop soon. We just need to keep paying attention to what’s going on.’
After breakfast, they readied themselves to venture into the city for another reconnaissance mission. Lizzie wore her lucky yellow scarf and as it was already blisteringly hot, she dressed in a modest summer dress and sun hat, as befitted a family member of the owner of the most prestigious château in the region.
‘I wish it wasn’t so hot. I would wear my new raincoat,’ Lizzie said.
‘Spoken like a true Brit. That’s not the first time you’ve mentioned it. Do you miss the rain already?’
Lizzie whispered in Jack’s ear. ‘It’s not that. It’s just they kitted me out with the most fabulous reversible raincoat. It’s two different colours and I’ve been dying to wear it again to try the other side.’
‘Oh, I see. Never fear, I’m sure we’ll get a summer storm one of these days and you can wear it then. I remember the storms here can be quite sudden and violent. Henry and I used to watch the rain beating down on the vines fromthe turret room, and we would pretend we lived here.’
‘Sounds perfect. I shall pray for some rain soon, then.’
On their way to the car, they saw a labourer busy shifting crates, and Jack called out a greeting. The man waved back and introduced himself as he wiped his shiny forehead with a handkerchief. His name was Pierre, and he said he’d been working in the vineyards for the past five years.
‘Can I drive this time?’ Lizzie asked as they neared the car.
‘Of course,’ Jack said. He opened the door for her and then circled the vehicle to the passenger side and jumped in.
Lizzie familiarised herself with the workings of the car and revved the guttural engine. This was good, she needed to be in action, like when she was on her own undercover. It was harder to be scared when she was busy. ‘I’ve never driven in France.When Hannah borrowed a truck in Paris, I decided I would remedy that at the first opportunity.’
‘When you sayborrowed, I take it you mean when she stole that milk truck?’
Lizzie laughed. ‘Yes, exactly, she meant no harm though.’
‘Hannah really inspired you, didn’t she?’
Lizzie glanced at him as she steered around the circular drive. The car nosed its way across the château courtyard and slid onto the narrow country road.
‘She’s amazing,’ Lizzie said.
‘How many times must I tell you, you are amazing?’
‘Keep on telling me, smooth talker,’ Lizzie said.
