Notorious (13 page)

When the brew cooled, he propped up Chirk, held the cup to his lips, and made certain he drank every drop. Softly, he crooned a Welsh ballad until the older man dozed; then Wolf withdrew and fed the horses. His heart was heavy—deep down he knew that Mortimer of Chirk was one of the three Marcher lords who would not survive. Yet he sensed that his death was not imminent.
That cruel bitch, Life, is not done with him yet. The poor old bugger will have to endure a few more months of suffering before his mortal spirit finds release.

Wolf sat down before the fire and stared into the flames. He put up a barrier to guard his mind against more visions of the future. Instead, he thought of Brianna. His mouth curved in a half smile.
Her kiss was not only warm and generous, it was indeed the most memorable kiss I have ever shared.

 

On the boat ride back from Chertsey, Brianna made a conscious decision not to tell Isabelle about King Edward's plans to go after the Marcher barons. Now that she had warned Roger Mortimer, she felt completely confident they would all be long gone by the time Edward's forces began to search for them. And now that she had alerted the Marchers, even if it did come to a fight they would easily defeat the king's forces, as they had done before.

Brianna and Simon walked briskly from the river and entered Windsor's Lower Ward through a gateway in the west wall. She knew that she must change her clothes and join the others without delay. Today, Isabelle and her ladies would be decorating Windsor's Great Hall for the Yuletide festivities.

“Simon, I thank you with all my heart for your help.” Impulsively she hugged him, then picked up her skirts intending to run to her chamber. Before she took one step, she saw the tall figure of her betrothed striding toward her.

“Lincoln Robert! What a lovely surprise.” She gave him a dazzling smile, hoping he would not question what she was about.

He did not return the smile. “I can believe you are surprised. Who the devil is your companion?”

“He is not my
companion
,” Brianna denied. “Deveril is a Warwick man my father sent to Windsor to guard me from danger. And that is exactly what he did when I accompanied the queen to Leeds Castle.”

“Thank God you came to no harm. My father and I were so outraged, we took de Warenne men-at-arms into Kent and joined Pembroke in the siege,” he said proudly.

You and thirty thousand others.
Brianna was immediately ashamed of her thoughts. She reached out and took his hand. “That was most courageous of you, Lincoln. I am proud of your loyalty to Queen Isabelle.”

His glance swept over her. “Have you been to the river? You look disheveled, more like a serving girl than a lady in waiting.”

“Yes,” she improvised quickly. “Isabelle was expecting a boat to bring fresh rushes, holly, and ivy from her hunting park at Banstead. We are garlanding the hall for Yuletide today. I'll go and change and meet you in the Great Hall.”

Brianna hurried off, relieved that Lincoln Robert accepted her lame explanation, yet guilty that she had so easily deceived him.

In an amazingly short time, Brianna arrived at the Great Hall wearing a pale green velvet gown with matching ribbons in her hair. Her betrothed was engrossed in conversation with young Blanche FitzAlan, the Earl of Arundel's daughter, whom they both knew well. Brianna was amused to see Blanche gazing up at Lincoln Robert with adoration, hanging on to his every word.
I won't ruin her day by telling her we are betrothed.

“Hello, Blanche. It's lovely to see you at Windsor.”

“Hello, Brianna. Did you know that Lincoln was one of the nobles who besieged Leeds Castle? He is so gallant and brave!”

“Indeed. I believe I will present him to the queen.”

“Ah, Brianna, you are so lucky to be a royal lady in waiting. I wish I were as old as you.”

“Are you sure? I'm positively ancient. Excuse us, Blanche.” She took Lincoln's arm and drew him across the room to the queen. “Cheeky monkey! She's only a year younger than I.”

“Her remark was purely innocent. I think Blanche FitzAlan is a sweet young lady.”

“Oh, I agree. Sugar wouldn't melt in her mouth.” Brianna smiled her secret smile. She felt so self-assured with Lincoln Robert. She felt safe and in control when they were together.
He will make me a very good husband.

“Your Grace, it gives me great pleasure to present Lincoln Robert de Warenne. Both he and his father, the Earl of Surrey, are loyal queen's men.”

When Lincoln bowed, Isabelle smiled. “I am honored by your devotion. Lynx de Warenne is my friend Jory's brother, if I am not mistaken, though he has seldom graced my court.”

“The Earl of Surrey, like the Earl of Warwick, makes a better warrior than courtier, Your Grace,” Brianna explained.

“I am delighted you are here, my lord. Will you spend the Christmas festivities with us?”

“Thank you, Your Grace, but my parents have sent me to bring my betrothed to Hedingham for the Yule, if you could find it in your heart to release her from her duties.”

“You are betrothed? Brianna, I had no idea. How romantic.” Isabelle sighed wistfully. “I absolutely insist that you go and spend the Yule with your future family.”

Well, it seems I have little say in the matter. But it will be lovely to spend Christmas at Hedingham.

“I
intend to stay the night at Flamstead, if you have no objection, Lincoln.” Brianna had the ever-vigilant Deveril riding behind her and her betrothed was attended by Taffy, his newly appointed squire who had served Lynx de Warenne for two decades.

“I was going to suggest it. I'd like to have you to myself before my family descends upon you. Once at Hedingham, you'll spend hours in the stillroom with Mother and I wager my brother Jamie will be underfoot most of the time.”

“I love and adore your family, Lincoln. 'Tis one of the reasons I agreed to marry you,” Brianna teased.

“And Flamstead is one of the reasons I agreed to marry you.”

“I thought you told me it was because I am Warwick's daughter.”

“That too,” he jested.

“So you admit you have more than one ulterior motive?”

“Many more, and speaking of marriage, now that you have turned seventeen, why don't we have a Christmas wedding?”

“Christmas sounds delightful…
next
Christmas of course.” She quickly changed the subject. “I know exactly the right gift for your mother, but I haven't the faintest notion what to give Jamie, or you, for that matter.”

“You know what I want,” he said with a leer.

“Indeed I do, Lincoln Robert de Warenne. And it doesn't take a crystal ball.”

The afternoon light was fading by the time they arrived in Flamstead's bailey. The castle was much smaller than Warwick. It had no soaring towers and therefore it was less intimidating. There were no fighting men garrisoned at Flamstead, only a few guards. There was a castle household of servants, but the rest of the inhabitants were horsemen, grooms, and stable hands.

“I love Flamstead. It is always so welcoming. I think it's because of all the open pastures where the horses roam freely.”

Lincoln dismounted and lifted Brianna from the saddle. They knew Simon and Taffy would tend their mounts and, hand in hand, they crossed the bailey and entered the castle.

“Good afternoon, Hornby, we are on our way to Hedingham and decided to stop for the night. Simon Deveril and Lincoln's squire, Taffy, are with us. Would you be good enough to plenish them a chamber?”

The steward, who'd known the pair all their lives, greeted them warmly. The Great Hall was small enough that it needed only one fireplace and Brianna was drawn to the blaze immediately.

“Surely you cannot be cold, wrapped in your sable fur?”

“No, it's my feet that are cold, Lincoln.”

He sat her down in one of the big chairs, went down on one knee, removed her riding boots, and began to massage her feet.

She wiggled her toes. “How very gallant you are.”

“Warming you is more pleasurable for me than you, I warrant.”

Hornby brought them hot cider and before they had drained their tankards, Simon and Taffy arrived.

Lincoln quickly covered Brianna's feet with her fur cloak.

His action sent her off into peals of laughter. “There is no formality at Flamstead, my love—they've all seen my feet before.”

Simon and Taffy concealed their grins and busied themselves taking Brianna's and Lincoln's luggage to the private living quarters, which were up only one flight of stone steps. There were four roomy bedchambers, and all present, with the possible exception of Lincoln Robert, took it for granted that the couple would occupy separate rooms.

Before the evening meal was served, Brianna asked the steward if he would summon various craftsmen who lived and worked at Flamstead. She spoke with the harness maker and asked to see some of his bridles. She chose a red leather one for Jane de Warenne, because she always rode a white palfrey. “Could you attach some silver bells to the bridle? I'm sure the blacksmith has some.”

The blacksmith spoke up. “Lady Warwick enjoys the tinkle of bells on her harness. I know just what you have in mind.”

Brianna turned to Lincoln. “Do you think Jamie would like some spurs stamped with his initials?”

“That's a brilliant idea. He won't be able to sneak up on us. He'll strut about in them and we'll be able to hear the young devil a mile away.”

“Lincoln, be a love and get me some more cider, please?” When he went off to find Hornby, Brianna spoke to the armorer. “I'd like to give Lincoln a sword. I know there's always a supply of new weapons in the guardhouse. I also know you are a talented artist, Toby. Could you inscribe a small lynx on the hilt and a matching one on the scabbard? Will you have enough time?”

“I'll do it tonight, Lady Brianna.”

“Thank you so much.” She gave each of them a gold coin from the supply her father had given her when she went to Windsor.

Lincoln returned with her cider. “What about a gift for my father? I'm having a devil of a time wondering what to get him.”

“What about a hunting dog? When I was here a few months ago, one of Father's prized wolfhound bitches had just had a litter. We'll go to the kennels before we leave and you can help me choose one. It can be a mutual gift from both of us.”

“I like your suggestion. We are a most compatible couple.”

“That's because we have known each other all our lives. I can often read your thoughts.” She doubled up her fist and playfully punched his chest. “Especially the lusty ones.”

“I'm a man, Brianna!”

To me you are still a boy, Lincoln. That's why I'm so comfortable around you. You pose absolutely no threat to me.
Thoughts of another male tried to intrude, but she firmly pushed them away and forbade them to return.

After the evening meal, they made their way back to the fire. Once the serving men cleared all away, they left the hall and gave the young couple their privacy.

Lincoln threw down cushions before the hearth, and they stretched out together in companionable silence, watching the flames. Gradually, he inched closer, slipped his arm about her, and the kissing began.

Brianna felt so cozy and warm, she became drowsy and drifted off to the edge of slumber. The arms about her gradually became more powerful, the kisses more masterful. She felt her breasts being caressed and her nipples became erect with arousal. She moaned softly. “Wolf, no.”

“Wolf?” Lincoln asked, puzzled.

Brianna raised her lashes and stared at him. Wolf Mortimer had transformed into Lincoln de Warenne. Her hand flew to her throat. “My wolf touchstone. I'm not wearing it. Your mother will be unhappy with me.”

“You can do no wrong in Mother's eyes. You are the daughter she always wanted,” he assured her.

“I think it is time I went to bed…I almost fell asleep.”

“I dream of you falling asleep in my arms.” Reluctantly, he allowed her to arise, and followed her up the flight of stone steps. They stopped at her chamber door and again he took her into his arms and kissed her deeply. His lips moved to her ear. “Let me share your bed, Brianna.”

She pulled away and looked up at him. She knew he was fully aroused and had no control at the moment. She was tempted to let him have his way. Then she came to her senses.
I'll have to take control.
“You rode off so gallantly to avenge the queen's honor. Tonight it is my honor you must protect. Good night, Lincoln.”

 

“Brianna! Welcome, darling. I'm so happy you could come.” Jane dropped down to her knees before the young wolfhound that accompanied her son and his betrothed. “How do you do, sir? Dare I hope that you have come to stay?”

“He is our gift to Lynx. We knew
you
would love him, but what about the lord and master of Hedingham?” Brianna asked anxiously.

“Lynx will be thrilled. He's always envied your father having Brutus as his constant companion, and I'm glad this one is gray, so we'll be able to tell them apart.”

Brianna laughed. “I believe Brutus is the third black wolfhound Father has had by that name—he's very attached to it.”

“I'll take him to the stables,” Lincoln said.

“You'll do no such thing. Bring him into the castle.” The dog gave Jane a look of adoration. “Follow me, sir.”

Brianna spoke to Taffy. “Will you find Simon a chamber or will I speak with Hedingham's steward?”

“I'll find him accommodation near mine, my lady.”

Taffy carried Brianna's luggage up to her chamber, including the gifts she'd brought from Flamstead. Jane's maid, Rose, was plenishing Brianna's room. She took one look at them and fled.

“Taffy, whatever have you done to Rose?”

“Nothing that I know of, my lady. I think she's just shy.”

After he left, Brianna hung up her clothes and put the gifts in the bottom of the wardrobe, and then she went down to join Jane. “May I help you decorate the hall for Christmas?”

“That would be lovely. We'll do it tomorrow. In Scotland, we celebrate Yuletide from Christmas Eve until Twelfth Night when all the trappings are removed. We observe the holy days at Christmas, and the festivities and celebrations are held at New Year.”

“Oh dear, I can't stay until New Year, Jane. I must return to Queen Isabelle the day after Christmas.”

“Of course you must. I was just reminded of the Twelfth Night festivities we had in Scotland, when Robert Bruce and his brothers came to celebrate with us. Your mother and I had such great fun. It was a magical time.”

“I knew that the late Lady Bruce was my mother's godmother, but I didn't realize that the King of Scotland was such a close personal friend.”
Mother has never spoken of Robert Bruce to me.

“It was a long time ago, before Robert became king.”

“Lincoln Robert was named for the
Bruce
! I didn't realize.” Brianna smiled. “Was he enamored of you, Jane?”

“Heavens, no! The Bruce had eyes only for Jory.”

“Robert Bruce was in love with my mother?”
Good God, how many conquests did she have?
“Was she in love with him?”

“She loved him very much, but because the Scots would never accept an English queen, she made a great sacrifice and selflessly left Scotland so he could fulfill his rightful destiny as king.”

They were lovers!
Brianna was shocked to think that her mother may have given herself to a man other than her husband.

Just then Lincoln strode into the hall. “Father and Jamie are coming. My brother has Stalker with him—perhaps we'll have a dogfight. I think I'll go and warn them.”

When Lynx came in, the wolfhound loped toward him, planted his front paws on his master's chest, and wagged his tail madly.

Lynx scratched his ears. “Well, am I your boy, or are you mine? I'll have to think of a good, noble name for you. How about Sir Lancelot?”

Jamie brought in Stalker, who took one look at the wolfhound's size and dropped to the floor in submission. “Well, that settles the pecking order.”

Lynx laughed and enfolded Brianna in his arms. “Thank you for the gift.” He held her away from him. “You don't look any worse for wear after your ordeal, but it must have been frightening.”

She pushed the disturbing thoughts about her mother aside. “I'm over the shock of what happened at Leeds.” Brianna lowered her voice. “I do want to talk to you in private, though.”

He searched her face. “Very well.” He raised his voice so the others could hear. “Come to the library with me, Brianna. I have a book on horse breeding I think you'd like.” When Lincoln started to follow them, his father put up his hand. “I'll guard her with my life—word of honor.”

Lynx closed the library door. “Your father's book collection at Warwick puts mine to shame.” He held a chair for Brianna and then propped himself on the edge of his massive oak desk. “Something is troubling you.”

“Troubling me and troubling the queen. I told Father, and I think I should tell you. King Edward assured Isabelle that Leeds Castle was hers. He lied! In reality it still belonged to the Badlesmeres. She believes he sent a royal guard with her to deliberately provoke an attack. It was a clever ploy to stir the people's outrage and have the nobles take their men-at-arms into Kent to avenge the insult to their beloved queen.”

Lynx shook his head at his own gullibility. “Lincoln and I wanted to show our loyalty to the queen.”

“Father said it was a scheme to divide the barons. He remained neutral and returned to Warwick.”

“An infamously wise man.” Lynx ran a hand through his tawny hair that was now sprinkled with gray. “Pembroke would never have incarcerated women and children. When Edward saw the size of the forces that had gathered, he took over and without proper process of law, clapped the Badlesmere family into prison.” Lynx bit back a curse. “It was the first military victory of his entire life and he didn't even have to draw his sword from his scabbard.”