“It is very hot. I have a cabin to clean. I like to do my work in wet clothes. Keeps me cool.”
The commander grunts. “What are all these linens for?” He gestures to the basket she’d brought, still sitting near the water’s edge. The soap and drying cloths are clearly visible.
“I took them along out of habit.” She shrugs. “Also, the water didn’t cool me down like it normally does.” She sighs. “I guess I am getting old. I run hotter than I used to.”
The commander doesn’t say anything for a good long while. “My wife has the same problem. Are you alone?”
Isla’s breathing quickens.
“Yes,” she says.
“Why were you in such a hurry?” another guard asks. “You were practically running away from the river when we spotted you.”
Julienne doesn’t miss a beat. “I heard voices. I didn’t know who was out here. For all I knew,youcould have been the escaped prisoners yourselves.” She pauses for a beat. “I was frightened. So yes, I was hurrying back to my cabin, where I’d feel safer behind lock and key. I was relieved to see you and your men, Commander.”
“You say guards came to your cabin last night?” he asks.
“Yes. They questioned me, searched my home, even checked my barn. Then they left.”
“And you haven’t seen anyone since?”
“Not a soul. Just you.” She almost sounds bored. “You are welcome to check my cabin yourself, if you would like.”
The commander makes a noise of interest that I have to strain to hear. “I would prefer to see where you just came from in such a hurry,” he says slowly. “Can you take us there?”
“You want to see the river?” Julienne sounds confused.
“Yes.” It’s not a request.
Julienne hesitates for only a heartbeat. “Of course, Commander Theodore. Follow me.”
I duck down as she leads them back toward our hiding spot.
Isla’s heart begins to flutter. I rub my hand up her arm, trying to offer comfort. It’s the briefest of movements.
One of them walks directly past our hiding spot. He is too close for comfort.
I hold my breath. Isla has gone completely still as well. Her face is pale.
“It’s a nice spot,” one of the younger-sounding guards says. “The water looks inviting.”
“Indeed,” the commander responds. His voice is closer now. He’s right at the water’s edge.
Another guard approaches. “Commander, permission to have a quick swim? We’ve been on our feet all night. The water looks wonderful.”
No! No, no, no!
He chuckles. “Why not? A quick swim wouldn’t hurt,” he says. “We’ll take a short break, then continue the search.”
My heart sinks.
Julienne’s voice cuts through. “If you’re satisfied that I’m telling the truth, may I return to my cabin? I have chores to attend to.”
The commander glances at her. “Yes, you may go. Thank you for your cooperation. You need to send word immediately if you see any sign of the prisoners. Do not approach them. They are dangerous.”
“Understood.” Julienne is already walking away.
There is the clank of metal hitting the ground as the guards begin to strip off their armor. The splash of bodies entering the water follows straight after.
