Page 26 of The Shadow of the Count
Peter wanted badly to be away from this terrible place, to stand in the shadow of the ferry at Calais and see his lover.
Yvgeny patted his arm, jerking his chin to indicate the train, which was pulling into the station. “They don’t stop long, my friend. Come. Let’s go.”
He went eagerly, wishing only fleetingly that he had his trunk with his books and his tools and such. He had his journal and his picture of Don, and Yvgeny had given him clothing. Along with the few journals from the count he’d been able to fit in his makeshift bag, it was enough. He would contact Monsieur Grant about a small loan to replace clothing and other items, and he would do more work for the man to pay it off.
The wire was short and sweet.
That was enough. He sent the wire and then they boarded, both praying that the sun stayed up until the train departed.
Hopefully this time, his Donnie would come to France. Not for a wandering visit. But because Peter needed him.
He’d almost made a terrible mistake.
He’d almost lost everything.
Eleven
“Mr. Donald?” The butler, Norman, appeared at the breakfast table, a silver salver in hand. “I have a telegram for you, and Dr. Richard, I have a message from your hospital.” Norman handed out two envelopes.
“Thank you, Norman.” Donald felt…deflated. Lyle had taken a bad turn during the night, slipping out of the house while they all slept and coming back even more pale and weak and feverish than before. And babbling about a great beast. God in heaven, he wanted to help his friend.
The telegram was simple, direct, and just reading it made his heart race. Peter needed him. In Calais. In two days.
“What is it?” Douglas asked.
“Peter. He’s on a train back to France. He wants me to meet him.”
“That’s damn fine news,” Jeb said, a smile breaking out on his sober face.
“Yes. I have to go. I need to. I’ll bring him back here, but I need to meet him.” France was not his favorite place, but this was Peter, who was safe and whole and coming to him.
“Of course you do,” Charles said, grabbing his hand and holding on.
“Reynaud almost broke out last night. He’s asking for me. Will you watch over Lyle?” Richard asked it of Clark.
“Broke out? What happened?” Donnie knew it had to be connected with this madness that had overtaken Lyle.
“It just says he was very agitated, and that he had amazing strength. I need to see him.” Richard appeared torn.
“Then you should go.” Douglas gave Richard a wry smile. “Do you need help?”
“I—Do you mind? Someone?”
“I’ll come.” Jeb stood. “Chambers, send for me if you need me.”
“Indubitably. You need to plan your travel, Donnie, and you’ll go with him, Douglas?” Clark’s expression brooked no argument.
“I would never make Donnie go alone to France.”
“I’ll stay here to help Clark. I have some medical training. I can help.” Charles winked at Douglas. “I expect you to bring back wine in a few days.”
“And cheese,” Jeb put in.
“Chocolate,” Clark added.
“Richard?” Douglas raised an eyebrow. “Any requests?”
“Books. I love to read in French.” Richard looked so pleased to be included. “I can send some money.”
