The Stolen Bride by Claire Delacroix

Author:Claire Delacroix [Delacroix, Claire]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781988479934
Publisher: Deborah A. Cooke
Published: 2024-02-26T18:30:00+00:00

Evangeline did not recognize the short man who stepped into the stables beneath the tower, but it was clear that he recognized her. His eyes lit with satisfaction when he spied her with Ramsay and she lifted her chin, fearing the worst. Her heart was racing and she could not catch her breath, her palms were damp and terror had her securely in its grasp. How she hoped that Ramsay could convince this man of his whimsical tale.

Sadly, the messenger did not look to be a fanciful man or one readily persuaded of much at all.

Evangeline clenched her hands into fists, hiding them in her skirts. Ramsay’s ring was cold upon her finger. There was an inscription upon it, though she had possessed no opportunity to read it. Why did he carry this ring? What was its meaning? Did he pledge himself to women in similar fashion all the time? This was why a wedding had need of mortal witnesses!

Regardless of Ramsay’s habits, she would not accompany this messenger meekly back to Dunhaven, that was for certain.

To her relief, Ramsay did not flinch or retreat, standing tall beside her. His arm slid around her waist and he pulled her against his side, and she was so surprised by the intimacy of the gesture that it took a moment for her to realize that he held her against his left side. Aye, his right hand was on the hilt of his sword.

Despite her fears, she was glad of this proof that he did mean to defend her.

She could only hope he did not pay a high price for such chivalry.

A bit late, she realized she had never seen Ramsay fight and had no knowledge of his skill. How much experience could he have gained as a renegade?

The messenger noted Ramsay’s gesture, then his gaze flicked to the other two men in silent calculation. The older one had moved to Ramsay’s right, leaving sufficient distance for Ramsay to swing his blade, while the fair one chose a place to Evangeline’s left, again leaving room to fight. Their expressions were steely and they were watchful. Evangeline heard Anna’s anxious breathing behind her, but could not name the precise locations of the boys. There were minute sounds in the stable, ones that hinted at the presence of others but disguised their number. Doubtless, the boys watched and were prepared to aid in this escape. Doubtless, Ramsay’s party had confronted foes similarly in the past, and she could only hope that this time, their strategy worked.

Evangeline’s heart was lurching in her chest. How she wished she might be on Basilisk, fleeing this place. Standing still was not for her, and she could not replicate Ramsay’s calm manner. If he was injured—or worse—in her defense, she would never forgive herself.

Even the horses ceased to snort or nicker, their dark gazes fixed on the new arrival. The messenger had to have several others with him, for Evangeline heard men commanding the dogs to remain outside, and she was certain there were at least four horses in his party.

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