“While his ward and niece is here? Unattended by family? At your mercy?”
“It’s not the way you’re presenting it.”
“It is exactly this way.”
“I’d never touch her.”
“You were going to sell her!”
“That’s not true. Scots are all liars. Their tales are spun bigger than their pricks.”
“I will not discuss this with you. You are no longer in command here.”
“These are my men. They’re in my hire.” Ivan’s face was suffused with color now.
“What happens to you or your lackeys matters little to me. I will see the lady safely to the Priory. That is my only objective.” Peter rubbed at the growth on his cheek. “I may allow you to continue with us unless you become a problem for Lady Brighit.”
“Lady Brighit,” Ivan muttered the name under his breath.
Peter placed his hands at his hips and tipped his head. “This is not the way to go about ingratiating yourself with me so that you may remain in good standing with your hired help.”
“Beg pardon, my lord.”
Peter doubted very much this man would be with him until he reached the Priory. He didn’t seem intelligent enough to keep his mouth shut. If he followed orders, Peter would allow Ivan to go with them so he could report to his master that Brighit had arrived safely.
“Rouse your men and break your fast. We leave on my orders.”
When Mort escorted Brighit to the carriage, the sun was still low in the sky. He placed the step-up box that lay beside the wheel in front of the door and offered his hand.
Brighit smiled and took his hand. It was much easier to get into the carriage.
“My thanks, Mort,” Brighit offered and sat down on the hard bench.
Mort picked up the box and placed it at her feet within the conveyance.
“Is there anything you need before we begin our travels for the day?”
Brighit was taken aback at such courtesy. “I am sure I have everything. Unless...”
“Name it, Lady Brighit.”
“Perhaps some company?”
“My pleasure.” Mort jumped into the carriage and sat across from her. He adjusted his legs so they were not even close enough to accidentally bump her knees. His palfrey was already tied to the back of the carriage. She smiled. He had once again anticipated her requirements.
Peter, ready and mounted, guided his horse abreast of the carriage. He glanced in her direction then addressed Mort. “Shall we depart?”
Mort turned toward her, his brows raised in anticipation of her response.
“Yes. I am ready.”
Mort turned back to Peter. “Yes, my lord. All are ready.”
Peter tipped his head slightly and urged his mount to the front of the carriage, out of her view. “Move out.”
The carriage lurched into a steady pace and Brighit relaxed into her seat. It would be a pleasant ride. Cole and Andrew paid little attention to their speed or how much the faster speeds jarred the carriage. Her comfort being of little importance.
“So Lady Brighit, tell me about yourself.”
