Page 101 of Kingdom of Chains

‘Let’s get started on the mortar,’ Ita said, tying up her horse.

Isabel glanced again at the road.

‘I can’t tell if you’re waiting for Hodge to show up or Blackmane to return,’ Ita said as they strolled towards the building site.

Isabel’s eyebrows came together. ‘What do you mean?’

‘I’m talking about the way you watch the road.’

Isabel looked up as Margery flew overhead, landing by the tools. ‘Do you think he ever thinks about me?’

Ita threaded her arm through Isabel’s. ‘Hodge? Absolutely. Blackmane? Also absolutely. I’m guessing you’re asking about Blackmane.’

‘A man trained in the art of forgetting.’

‘I happen to know for a fact that you are unforgettable.’

Isabel gave her a sceptical look. ‘The difference being that you had fifteen years of memories to erase, and he had two weeks.’

‘The time is irrelevant. It took my parents minutes to fall in love, and their feelings only strengthened over the years.’

Isabel glanced sideways at her friend. ‘When did you get so wise?’

‘I didn’t. I was simply trying to make you feel better. What do I know about love? All the men in my life view me as a sister and would likely be appalled at the thought of anything more.’

‘I doubt that. More likely they are afraid to attempt anything because you usually have at least two weapons on you at all times.’

Ita released her arm and walked over to where the tools sat. ‘Well, maybe you’re not the only one afraid that Hodge will return.’ She picked up the trowel and inspected it before handing it to Isabel. ‘I’m sorry he left.’

‘Hodge?’

Ita pinched her playfully. ‘Blackmane. While I admit to being initially surprised by your taste in men, I soon saw how deeply you cared for each other.’

Isabel stared hard at the tool in her hand. ‘There was too much against us, too many reasons why it could never work. And one day I plan on accepting them.’

‘A little pining in the meantime is relatively harmless, so long as it doesn’t interfere with your ability to work.’ Ita winked at her.

Isabel hoped that was true. ‘All right. Show me what to do.’

‘You ready to get dirty?’

Isabel’s gaze drifted a final time to the empty road. ‘I am ready.’

CHAPTER 32

Blackmane pulled himself from the icy water and stood on Flat Rock, looking back at the mainland. He fed off these quiet moments, rare snatches of time, away from the clashing weapons and noisy dinners and all the other things that made up his life. All he could hear at that moment was the autumn wind catching his ears and the thudding of his own heart after a long swim.

He gave himself a few minutes to catch his breath before returning to shore. Normally, a cliff climb was done as a team, but Blackmane had done it solo that day. Tatum stood atop the wall, watching him, making sure he did not drown or fall from the cliff face. Blackmane did not object, knowing he would do the same if the roles were reversed.

The sea kicked up against the rock, sending a spray of water over him. What better cleanse was there? He dove into the turbulent sea and began the swim back, rolled side to side by the waves as he fought to steer clear of the sharp rocks. Thankfully, he made it back to the mainland in one piece before climbing to the top without incident.

When he reached the ledge at the top, he paused to catch his breath, then took hold of the rope and began the final climbup. When his feet finally hit the wall walk, he looked around for Tatum, surprised to find Tolly instead, leaning against one of the embrasures and looking out to sea.

‘Tolly?’

His brother looked in his direction, a smile reaching his lips as he straightened. ‘Hello, brother.’

Blackmane walked over to where he stood, eyes raking over him. He looked strong and had colour back in his face, no doubt due to spending more time above ground.

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