Page 81 of Waking Roslyn

“I don’t know. She wants me to come as soon as possible. I haven’t spoken to Lisette yet, but…maybe a week?”

“You’re nervous.” It wasn’t a question.

She rubbed her hands on the fabric that covered her thighs. “I don’t know what to expect. I’m excited, but I’m terrified. And I can’t help thinking that terror is the more apt emotion.” She leaned her shoulder into mine, no doubt seeking comfort. I wished I could give it more fully.

“There are many unknowns,” I said, not liking how true it was.

“Too many.”

“But you get to go home,” I reminded her.

She sat up straight and turned to look at me fully as a smile stretched her mouth. “Yes. I do.”

“And I’m certain we could work out some of the unknowns. Go share the news with Lady Rockwell. See what arrangements can be made for your protection. Perhaps she will even accompany you.” I hoped that was the case. If Lisette went, then I knew Lord Rockwell would send a worthy pair of guards with them. That would be for the best.

Roslyn

I did as John had suggested and hurried to find Lisette.

“That’s wonderful,” she said after hearing the news, but then her face fell. “But are you sure that is wise?”

I shrugged. “I have to trust that my parents know what they are doing. They are the ones who are in Saldian society day in and day out.” I said it to reassure myself as much as her. “It’s easy for me to remember nothing but the threat while I’m here. I’m certain my fears have only compounded over the years.”

“Well,” she said, putting on a bright smile. “What do we need to do to prepare you?” She suddenly put a hand to her mouth. “I can’t believe I’ll be losing you, Rosie,” she said with unshed tears in her eyes.

“Oh, Lisette.” I went to hug her. “You’re going to make me cry, and I’m certain I’ll do plenty of that without your help.”

“You’re right. You’re right.” She pulled back and sniffed down her emotions. “What do we need to do?”

I told her about my need for protection, and she agreed with me fully. After talking it over, we decided to bring up the news of my departure as well as a request for an escort at dinner.

“Edmund,” Lisette began during a lull in our dinner conversation. “Did you hear the good news?”

“What news?”

“Rose’s parents have sent for her. She is to return home!”

Edmund looked genuinely delighted by the news. “Well, I am very happy for you, Rose. I’m certain you are anxious to return to your parents.”

“Thank you,” I said.

“When do you go?”

“In a week, my lord.”

“Well, I wish you safe travels. You can of course take one of the carriages.” He returned his attention to his plate.

“Darling,” Lisette continued, “I was thinking it might be a good idea for me to escort Rose home. I would only need to be there for a few days, just to be sure she arrives safely and all is well at her home. And of course we would need—”

“No.” Edmund’s answer was swift and hard.

“But…” Lisette struggled for words. “Why ever not?”

Edmund looked at her as though she were dim-witted. “We have been sent to this godforsaken corner of the duchy to rebuild the trust and good reputation of my family with these people.” He gestured to the world around him. “I can’t very well do that if my own wife is off gallivanting in some foreign country.”

“It is only Saldine.”

“And you need not go.”