"Of course."
He remained silent for a long time. Too long. Finally, he gave a curt nod.
"Rest assured, my men and I will find the traitor."
"And Anne? Will you seek her as well?"
"Mayhap."
"She killed my father. Poisoned him! She must face justice!"
Gillian's anger took over. She walked close to her husband and pounded her fist on his chest. "You must find her! Or I will!"
He caught her wrist, squeezing hard until she cried out. He shoved her away from him.
"You strike me again?"
His low menacing voice drew a shiver of apprehension. She held herself erect.
"If 'twill make you listen to reason, I will do so as often as I must!" She folded her arms and lifted her chin.
He stalked over to her, standing right before her so she had to tilt her head back to hold his gaze. She didn't retreat and steadily held his stare.
"'Twill only gain you more severe punishments."
"I don't fear you. My lord."
The hastily added respect only seemed to anger him. She didn't care, daring him to do worse than he already had. Except her poor, sore arse would suffer. She tried to ignore the lingering discomfort in her bottom. He could beat her until her skin turned purple. She would endure.
"Mayhap you should."
"I seek justice for my father. Surely, you'd do the same."
He hesitated for a moment. Gillian swore she saw ahint of sadness in his eyes before it fled as quickly as it had arisen.
"'Tis not the same."
"And why not?"
"I decide what takes priority in protecting Edward and England. I can't be so closed-minded to focus on a rumored murder of one baron."
She didn't think herself capable of such angry pain. "My father was very important to Edward. And England. He kept the peace in this region for years and you know it."
"Aye. Edward was well-pleased with William's service. But your father would be the first to tell you England would come before him."
Damn the man to hell and back if he wasn't right. Gillian bit her cheek to keep from responding foolishly. She'd never gain her husband's trust and kindness if she continued to give in to the frustration and annoyance he always seemed to provoke.
"She killed him. I will find proof. When I do, will you find her?"
He gave a nod. "Aye. If you can prove it, I will find her and she will face justice."
"Thank you."
"I have to question some of the rebels we have taken as prisoner. You will remain here until I return."
"But I have many tasks –"
He held up the key. "Thomas will handle whatever the household needs. I want to make sure you don't get into any more trouble."
