Page 43 of The Guardian's Bride
“You must have a lovely family. Indeed, how sad that Sir Aedan lost his wife. The lad is well?”
“Aye. Five years old now, living in Fife. Aedan will be anxious to see him.”
“I am sure he will.” Aedan had confirmed that he had a son, but had said little of him otherwise. Nor had he mentioned the Lauders of Tyningham and the Bass. Suddenly she felt more like an acquaintance than a friend, though she had begun to feel that, and perhaps more. But she reminded herself that he did not owe her explanations.
“You wear a veil. May I ask—are you married, my lady?” In Ellen’s sweet smile, Rowena sensed curiosity.
“I have been widowed for over four years. When I came into some trouble recently, Sir Aedan kindly offered to escort me home. Lady Ellen,” she said quickly, feeling a touch of guilt, certain Aedan would confide their situation to Lauder, his close friend. “You are so kind, and I want to be honest. Sir Aedan and I were both in English custody, you see, and we escaped together. So we are each going home.”
“Oh dear. Brian had heard that Aedan was arrested, but you as well? How awful! So you may be pursued?”
“They may look for us, aye.”
“You are safe here. Any place held by Brian Lauder is a haven for Aedan MacDuff. So, in prison again, was he? Goodness!” She shook her head.
“Again?”
“He takes risks, but he is a capable soul and the king relies on him. I trust you know which king I mean.” Ellen raised her brows.
“I do. And I agree, Sir Aedan is a steady sort. I marvel at how he can be so cheerful even when things seem at their most bleak.”
“That is his nature, that cheerful constitution. It is a marvel indeed, considering what he has faced in life. But he puts on a good face.”
“A jester’s mask,” Rowena said, and Lady Ellen nodded. “He has told me a little about himself. It seems he has a good deal of responsibility.”
“The MacDuffs of Fife have closely supported the throne of Scotland since we had kings in this land. With that comes danger as well as privilege. He would be inclined to take you under his protection. That is his way. What put you there, a lady of rank?”
“I am not sure, to be honest. I am trained in healing remedies, and sometimes help in infirmaries. There was an accusation—from a great lord, an unfair charge that caused my arrest. I had met Sir Aedan before, months ago when I treated his injuries.”
“That was you? We heard about that. I am even happier to know you! So you are one of the cunning folk, as we call healers where I come from. Aedan is well today thanks to you.”
She shook her head. “His healing is a tribute to his strength and vigor.”
“And your skill. I think he would give his very life to repay you for that. He is loyal beyond loyalty, our Aedan. But you will have seen already what a fine man he is.”
“I have,” Rowena said.
“We will eat soon, but first, may I ask if you need anything?” Lady Ellen smiled. “You seem to be traveling with just the clothes on your back.”
“We did leave in a hurry, and I came away with very little.”
Ellen gestured toward the baskets and boxes on the floor. “I have so many garments, and some no longer fit me. I would be pleased if you would help yourself.”
Rowena blushed, noticing that the flaxen lining of her gown was torn and smudged. “Thank you. I could use some things, truly.”
Ellen took her hand. “Aedan and Brian are like brothers, and I feel as if we can be good friends too. Come, look at what’s here and take what you need.”
Chapter Twelve
“Were you takenleaving Berwick?” Brian Lauder asked. “I thought you were headed that way last month.”
“Near Selkirk, where I attended a meeting of the Guardians. Edward’s men discovered I was there, and jumped me in the dark.”
“He is after all the MacDuffs, I fear. And you are an easy fellow to spot.”
“They shut me in Yester Tower for a month, but I took a helmet and surcoat off a guard and left their hospitality.”
“Good! Did the council settle the negotiations regarding the captive women?”
