Part 57 (1/2)
In a tone meant to soothe he said softly,
”You are safe now, Rowena.
Holden Mackay is dead.”
He watched her shoulders slump as she seemed to let go of the terrible tension that had held her in its grip. A sigh rose up from deep within her.
”What has happened here? Where is the lady Meredith?”
Rowena stared into his dark eyes. He had always been so kind to her.
She wanted to return the favor. But it was hard to think.
”Holden Mackay sent for me to dress the lady.” She stared down at the bloodstained gown she was wearing. ”He chose this gown. He said he wanted her to look like the bride you would never have.”
Brice's eyes narrowed. In his jaw a little muscle began working.
”Did he touch her?” His hand curled into a fist.
”Did he harm her in any way?”
She shook her head.
”You are certain?”
Rowena met his gaze, then slowly nodded.
He felt as if a band around his heart had suddenly been removed. With a rush of relief he asked softly,
”Why are you wearing the gown, Rowena?”
Why indeed? She shook her head, as if to erase the pain of Holden Mackay's fists. Slowly, haltingly, her mind cleared.
”When we were alone, the lady Meredith asked me to change clothes with her. I put on her gown.”
”Why?”
”So that when she opened the door, the guards outside would think that she was still seated by the fire.”
”Why would they not recognize her when she opened the door?”
”The lady Meredith was disguised as me.”
Brice could only stare in silence as the meaning sank in.
”The lady wore my cloak and carried my bundle of gowns.”
Brice turned to Angus, who stood listening.