Lady Gwyneth's Hope (Ladies of Ardena Book 4) Read online

  “Unfortunately, only three days. I have business back home, but I will return in two months’ time.”

  “Three days…” She pondered it for a moment and then smiled. “That isn’t much time to get to know each other. I suppose we will have to make each moment count. Will you join me for a picnic tomorrow afternoon, Milord?”

  He smiled while reaching for her hand to kiss it. “Aye, Princess Gwyneth. A picnic sounds perfect.”

  The next day, Gwyneth slept in and requested breakfast be brought to her room. All the dancing the previous evening had worn her out. However, she smiled, remembering her conversation with the handsome young duke. She’d never expected to be swept off her feet by one of the potential suitors, but Lord Carney had so much charm. She found herself picturing what their lives would be like if they wed, but her heart throbbed moments later. Why did she feel so torn?

  Gwyn reached for the small leather pouch on her nightstand and poured the contents into her palm. She studied the wooden dice in her palm with the engraved fawns on the top—a gift from Airell when she was a child. There used to be six of them, but now there were only five. Did the missing die have something to do with the ache in her heart?

  After a while, Airell came into Gwyneth’s chambers like old times. She sat next to her on the bed and started brushing out her long raven hair. “Thank you for helping plan the ball last night. It was a wonderful welcome home. I enjoyed it immensely.”

  Gwyn smiled at her elder sister, concealing the dice in her hand. “I’m glad. Our people missed you as much as Mother and I have. ‘Tis so wonderful to have you home.”

  Airell worked on a small tangle before speaking again. “Want to tell me about the young duke who escorted you around the courtyard?”

  Gwyn blushed and avoided her sister’s gaze. “Oh, Lord Carney simply wished to speak with me away from the crowd. He was handsome…and charming I must admit. We’re going on a picnic later today.”

  Airell released a light chuckle. “Sounds like you might like this Lord Carney.”

  She sighed. “Oh Airell, we’ve only just met. He is a potential suitor, but I simply wish to find out more about him for now. Mother advised me not to rush into finding a match and I plan to heed her words.”

  “Aye, ‘tis wise to move slowly. Choosing who you will marry is an important decision and shouldn’t be taken lightly. I shall never regret my choice to marry Tiernay. It seemed like the wrong decision at first, but God knew what he was doing.”

  Gwyn smiled and held her sister’s hand. “Aye and look at you now—happier than I’ve ever seen—and with three precious children. I do hope I can find the happiness you and Tiernay have together.”

  “You will. I believe it with all my heart.” Gwyn nodded, but remained quiet as Airell started to weave the top portion of her hair into an intricate braid. “I can tell something is troubling you, Sister. I know it has been a long time since we’ve talked face to face, but I hope you know you can still confide in me.”

  Gwyn sighed with the realization it was pointless to try and hide things from her sister. She opened her palm to study the dice again. “I have so many decisions to make for the future. Yet, my thoughts remain fixed on the past.”

  Airell gave her a knowing look and placed her hand over the dice she clung to. “You still think of King Tristan?”

  Gwyn gulped down a lump in her throat before turning to look at her sister. “Aye, more often than I care to admit. However, I know I must put the memory of him behind me now. We spent such a short time together—moments really. ‘Tis doubtful it ever meant anything to him at all.”

  “That can’t be true,” Airell assured. “I’ve heard stories about him—rumors he survived—but lost his memory. I’m sure he would have returned for you otherwise.”

  Her eyes widened. “Do you really believe it could be true?”

  “Aye, people say he was in the same prison as King Ewan of Rhona. They escaped, but went their separate ways afterwards. However, even though he had no memory of being the King of Órlaith, I heard he was healthy and strong.”

  Gwyn sighed and managed a smile. “I’m glad to hear it. I’ve never ceased praying for him since he departed from Daireann all those years ago.”

  “I’m sure wherever he is, he would appreciate your prayers. However, follow God’s leading, my sister. You cannot dwell on the past forever. Perhaps you both journeyed down separate paths for a reason. Even though it will be hard, it might be time to tuck those memories away. See if your feelings for the duke grow stronger. Then with time, God will reveal his plan.”

  “Aye, Airell. Thank you for your wise advice.” She reached for the leather pouch and poured the dice back inside, along with her memories of Tristan. After pulling the drawstring and placing the pouch back on her nightstand, she felt a weight lift off her shoulders.

  A smile curved on her lips as she turned back to her elder sister. “So, I have a special picnic to attend this afternoon. Will you help me choose a suitable gown?”

  CHAPTER THREE

  Sprigs of Lavender

  Gwyneth found Lord Carney in the same place they had parted the eve before. He stood near the wall overlooking Beatha Valley with his back to her, hands clasped behind him.

  “Enjoying the view, Milord?” she asked, coming up beside him.”

  He turned and smiled, causing her heart to flutter. It was too dark to see the color of his eyes the night before, but the sun revealed they were dark brown with some green near the center. He studied Gwyneth in her lavender gown for a moment and nodded. “Aye, very much.”

  She turned to look over the stone wall in an attempt to hide her flaming cheeks. “Thank you for meeting me again today. The servants have prepared our picnic lunch near the orchards. Are you hungry yet?”

  “Aye.” He offered his preferred arm. “I’ll allow you to lead the way, Milady.”

  They walked down the winding path through the gardens before finding a large blanket and pillows spread out beneath the shade tree. A basket was in the center with fresh fruit, cheese and bread.

  After finishing their picnic, Gwyneth led him out of the courtyard for a stroll through Beatha Valley. She motioned toward the villages and crops in the fields. “When King Malcolm and his army attacked, they set fire to all of this first. Everything seemed hopeless, covered in layers of ashes, but the next spring new life sprouted through. Soon everything became green again and the villagers rebuilt their homes. Since then, the village has grown and God has blessed our kingdom.”

  Lord Carney studied everything as he walked. “I’m happy to hear it. We would have sent aid if only the isles were not so far away.”

  “‘Tis understandable why you did not. After all, one of Malcolm’s ships raided the isles shortly after the attack on the mainland. I’m sure none of your soldiers could be spared.”

  He furrowed his brow for a moment before nodding. “Aye, of course.”

  Gwyn managed a sad smile. “Although, we appreciated the provisions your father sent the next spring.”

  “Provisions?”

  She studied his puzzled expression. “Aye, the food and supplies. The people from Beatha and Áthas were very thankful for your generosity.”

  Lord Carney’s eyes filled with understanding. “I remember my father mentioning that now. Forgive me. I was away at sea with my company.”

  “Away? ‘Twas my understanding all the ships were destroyed or seized by the enemy.”

  He looked down and rubbed his chin. “Aye… save one, Your Majesty. My men and I attempted to pursue the enemy ships...” He clenched his jaw and turned away from her. “Forgive me. Our effort was in vain. Many did not survive.” He sat on the ground next to the lavender growing in the field and plucked a small sprig of it.

  She sat close by and touched his arm, a lump rising in her throat. “There is nothing to forgive, Milord. You made a valiant effort to help. Tis a shame I never heard of it before this day. You should be rewarded for your bravery.”r />
  He waved away her statement and rotated the lavender sprig between his fingers, studying the delicate purple blossoms. “There is no need.”

  “Oh, but there is. You are a hero and should be recognized.”

  His chin trembled. “I do not feel like a hero. The fact remains…I failed. ‘Tis not something I wish to make known to the entire kingdom.”

  Gwyn nodded and took his hand in hers. “Very well, so long as you remember, you’re a hero to me.”

  Carney scoffed lightly and dabbed at one eye. “Thank you, Your Grace.” He grinned and tucked the sprig of lavender into one of her raven braids. “You are truly as lovely, kind and wise as people say.” She blushed and started to look away, but his index finger tilted her chin back toward him. “‘Tis why I would like to make my intentions known.”

  “Aye, Milord?” Gwyn gazed into his brown eyes, her heart thumping so loud it was hard to concentrate.

  “I know there are many suitors vying for your hand—noblemen with more wealth and status than I. Nonetheless, I humbly ask you to consider my proposal of marriage.”

  Gwyn’s breath caught in her throat. Had she already met the man she was to marry? The connection between them was undeniable, but could it eventually turn into love?

  When she didn’t answer, he reached for her hand and kissed it. “You do not have to answer now, Your Majesty. I know this is not a decision to be made in haste.”

  She smiled and gripped his hand tighter. “I will consider what you have asked.”

  “He proposed?” Isla’s big brown eyes filled with excitement as she bounced onto her bed the next morning.

  Gwyn nodded, cheeks turning bright pink. “Aye, he did.”

  Her friend squealed and reached for her hands. “Oh, I’m so happy for you! I want to hear every little detail. Did he give you a token to show you are betrothed?”

  Gwyn bit her lip to rein in her growing grin. “No, we are not betrothed yet. There is still much to consider.”

  Isla’s eyes widened in disbelief. “What is there to think about? Lord Carney is so handsome and charming. Oh, it makes my heart quicken just hearing his name!”

  Gwyn chuckled at her friend’s innocence. “I want to ensure I make the right decision. It is true, he swept me off my feet, but romance isn’t everything.”

  “Aye, you are right, I suppose,” Isla mumbled. “But it doesn’t hurt either.”

  They shared a chuckle. Then Gwyn took the sprig of lavender from her hair and smelled it. “No, I don’t mind it in the least. We’re going into the village today and then sharing a private dinner tonight. We have to make every day count as he will return to the isles in two days hence. Perhaps that is good. It will give me a few months to think.”

  Isla grinned at her. “You are wise, my friend. Waiting will be hard, but ‘tis the right decision. However, just remember he has my approval.”

  Gwyn laughed and hugged her friend close. So many changes would happen in a short amount of time. While some of them would be difficult, exhilaration flooded her soul, thinking of the journey ahead.

  Gwyn’s heart pounded as she bid her handsome duke farewell. They had been inseparable the past three days and it was difficult to part from him. After Lord Carney’s ship drifted from sight, Gwyn wiped a tear from her cheek and walked toward Airell and Isla waiting on the dock in Áthas Harbor. “I’m being foolish, aren’t I? ‘Tis only a few months after all.”

  Airell chuckled softly and pulled her into a hug. “‘No, you’re not foolish at all.”

  “You’re in love,” Isla added with a grin.

  Gwyn shook her head and hugged Isla. “In love? Surely not. We’ve only just met.”

  “Love happens quickly sometimes.”

  Airell nodded in agreement. “Aye, it didn’t take long for me to fall for Tiernay. We had our struggles afterwards, but in the end, our love turned out to be true. This time with him away will be a good opportunity to test those feelings. When he returns, you’ll know what decision to make.”

  “Aye, that is my prayer.” She released a deep sigh before reaching for their hands. “Oh, I’m so glad you are both here with me. I wish we didn’t have to go back to Beatha yet. If only we could stay by the sea for a few more days.”

  Airell grinned. “I don’t see why we couldn’t. The tents are still set up and we could send a messenger so Mother will not worry. My children will be fine with their nurses for a few more days. It would be so wonderful to spend some time with you both without all the activity and people around court.”

  Isla nodded in agreement. “I think it is a wonderful idea. I’m going to miss these visits to the sea when I return to Kiely.”

  A smile curved on Gwyn’s lips, the thought of delaying their return to the castle lifting a heavy weight off her shoulders. Meeting all the suitors had been emotionally taxing, but now she could put it aside for a few days. They could relax by the tranquil western sea and act like the carefree young girls they used to be. “I suppose it’s settled then. Let’s stay.”

  CHAPTER FOUR

  Rising Tides

  Airell drew in a deep breath of salty air, observing the vibrant sunrise coming over the eastern mountains and highlighting the sea. Her eyes shifted toward the seaside village, pleased to see it rebuilt and thriving after King Malcolm’s attack four years before. She still remembered the smoke and destruction from that day. It seemed the whole world was ending, but seeing the village and harbor rebuilt brought joy to her soul. It was a rebirth.

  After a few moments, she retreated to her tent, but Gwyn and Isla had yet to awaken. She settled in at the desk the servants had brought in, lit a lamp and started penning a letter.

  My Dearest Tiernay,

  I pray you are well and your endeavors at home are going as we hoped. The children and I are enjoying precious time with our Daireann family. We all miss you terribly, but somehow, knowing we watched the same sunrise this morning brings me comfort and dissolves the distance between us.

  Overlooking Áthas harbor today, I was reminded of the first time we came here together. I married you with no thought to my own heart, only the salvation of my kingdom. Yet, out of the ashes of destruction, the bloom of our love emerged. I cannot imagine what my life would be like without you by my side.

  The memory is fresh in my thoughts as my sister chooses a suitor. Please keep Gwyneth in your prayers as she makes this decision. I believe with all my heart God will lead her to a love as wonderful as ours. If she chooses one soon, I will remain in Daireann for her wedding. I wanted to inform you this may delay our return trip to Brannagh for at least a few months.

  Be well, my dear husband. Until our return, remember my heart is with you, even when we are apart.

  All my love,

  Airell

  She folded the letter and placed her royal seal on the top, praying it would find her husband happy and in good health. Then she sent it off with a servant.

  Gwyn woke up shortly after, with Isla trailing close behind. “We must have slept in,” her sister said, covering a yawn. “I’m sorry. How long have you been awake?”

  “Not long. You didn’t miss anything of importance.”

  Isla stepped up beside her sister. “Oh, good. So, what are the plans for today?”

  Airell grinned and stood from her chair. “I believe that is up to Gwyneth. ‘Twas her idea to stay in Áthas after all.”

  Gwyneth perched on the ledge overlooking the harbor as the salty breeze whipped through her raven hair. Thoughts of Lord Carney tangled through her mind. He would be arriving at the isles soon and she prayed he was well. Were his thoughts cluttered with memories of their short time together as well? ‘Twas hard to imagine spending two months separated from him, yet she knew the separation would provide her much needed time to consider his proposal. Every beat of her heart implored her to choose him as her husband, but were her feelings true?

  Gwyn closed her eyes, drawing warmth from the sun on her face. Oh, Heavenly Father, if I am mea
nt to follow another path, lead me to it.

  She smiled as the warm, salty breeze tousled her hair again, bringing comfort. After spending two days with her sister and best friend in Áthas, she didn’t want to leave the tranquility of the little seaside village. They’d had so much fun, taking walks along the beach, wading in the shallows looking for shells and spending time there with the people in the village. They’d organized a feast in their honor the day before. The time spent there had been wonderful, yet, she knew they needed to depart the next day. Airell missed her children and Gwyn had responsibilities in Beatha.

  Light footsteps approached and she opened her eyes as Isla relaxed beside her. “‘Twas such a wonderful idea to spend time here together. I wish it didn’t have to end.”

  Gwyn wrapped her arm around the friend she’d come to think of as a younger sister. “Me too, but there are so many wonderful things ahead of us. Just think, you left Kiely as a countess and will return as a princess.”

  Isla stared at the horizon with a furrowed brow. “Aye, you’re right, I suppose. My brother, Leland, is the king now.”

  Gwyn rubbed her shoulder. “Where’s your enthusiasm? It will be so grand living in Kiely fortress! I’ve heard so many rumors of its beauty. You’ll have your own chambers, ladies and servants! Can you just imagine?”

  Isla nodded and managed a smile. “I guess it shall be exciting to return home. My people need to see me again after all this time, too. It will show unity and strength if I am there to support my brother.”

  “Aye, it will,” Gwyn agreed. “The time has come for you to rise and become the leader God made you to be. He has so many wonderful things in store for us both.”

  Isla nodded and wiped a few tears before clinging to Gwyneth tighter. She didn’t say anything, but hoped being there was enough to comfort her dear friend. It eased her heartache too, realizing a new chapter in her life was about to begin. Gwyn could feel the page turning, but after talking with Isla, she was no longer afraid.