“Roland is asking for you both. Says he has something important to tell us.”
They found Roland propped up against pillows, his color much improved. He grinned when they entered.
“Ah, my saviors arrive. Come, I must share what I learned during our ambush.”
Baldwin’s expression darkened. “You should rest.”
“Rest? When I have information that may save us all?” Roland scoffed. “One of Cedric’s men spoke freely, thinking me too near death to hear. They were not merely trying to kill us, they sought to capture Mistress Anderson.”
The blood drained from her face. “Capture me? Why?”
“It seems Lord Cedric believes your knowledge of... unusual remedies... would be valuable to him. He plans to force you to share your secrets.”
Baldwin’s fists clenched at his sides. “That will never happen.”
“There’s more,” Roland continued. “Cedric has been gathering men. Many men. I fear he plans something beyond simple kidnapping.”
“An attack on Glenhaven?” Baldwin’s voice was dangerously quiet.
“Perhaps. Or worse, he may seek to discredit you with the king. Turn your protection of Beth into treason.”
Eleanor gasped. “He wouldn’t dare!”
“He would,” Baldwin said grimly. “Cedric has coveted Glenhaven since we were boys. My friendship with the king is all that stands between him and what he desires.”
Beth felt sick. “This is because of me. Because of what I know.”
Baldwin turned to her, his expression fierce. “No. This is because Cedric is a man consumed by envy and spite. He has hated me since we were squires together.”
“What do we do?” Eleanor asked.
Baldwin straightened, determination hardening his features. “We prepare. For whatever comes.”
Roland reached for Baldwin’s arm. “Be careful, my friend. Cedric fights with poison and lies, not honor.”
“Then it is time he faced steel and truth,” Baldwin replied. He looked at Beth, his gaze softening slightly. “Your knowledge has saved Roland. Now we must ensure it remains beyond Cedric’s reach.”
As they left Roland to rest, she caught his sleeve. “I never meant to bring danger to your home.”
He studied her face for a long moment. “You have brought many things to Glenhaven. Danger is but one of them.”
The way he looked at her made her breath catch. But before she could respond, he continued.
“We will face Cedric together. And when this is done...” He paused, something unspoken passing between them.
“When this is done?” she prompted softly.
Baldwin’s lips curved in a rare, genuine smile. “We shall see what other miracles you might work.”
CHAPTER 21
Baldwin stood in his chamber, the weight of his armor pressing against his shoulders like the burden of his title. Dawn had barely broken, pale fingers of light stretching across the stone floor. He flexed his hand around the hilt of his sword, the leather grip worn to the contours of his palm.
“My lord, ’tis time.” Sir Roland’s voice carried from the doorway, solemn as a prayer.
Baldwin nodded, jaw tight. “A moment.”
The chamber door closed with a soft thud, leaving him alone with his thoughts. He crossed to the window, gazing out at the courtyard below where servants scurried to prepare the lists. The morning mist clung to the ground like a shroud, promising a day of uncertain weather.
