Page 34 of A Heart Worth Loving

Ewan seemed not to hear. He hit the man again and again. Kyla rushed to them

“Kyla,” her father began, but she grabbed Ewan’s arm as he raised his fist for another blow. Ewan rammed his fist forward, dragging her. Then he stopped, eyes locked with hers.

“Do not kill him,” she whispered.

Fury blazed in his eyes.

She feared he was so crazed he didn’t understand.

“Kilbreck,” her father said in a harsh voice.

Ewan hesitated, then released Mister Laurent and stood. His eyes caught on something. Kyla followed his line of sight to the pistol lying on the floor near the divan.

“Which battle was it?” her father broke the silence.

Ewan yanked his gaze onto him. He stared for a long moment, breath coming in heaving gasps, then he said, “Almeida.”

Surprise flickered in her father’s eyes. “The Battle of Fuentes de Onoro. Third Foot Guard?”

Ewan nodded. “The French Cavalry caught us unawares.”

Her father nodded slowly. “I heard the news. War changes a man.” He didn’t wait for an answer, but said, “You will deliver Laurent to your friend at the Home Office?”

“Aye, and I will make arrangements for a meeting.” Her father opened his mouth to reply, but Ewan added, “Both your daughters are to marry. It can never be known that their father was a criminal.”

“I will not bring my business back here, but I will continue. Make that clear to the Home Office.”

Ewan looked at her. “Once Laurent is locked in one of the dungeon cells, I will introduce you to my brother.” He didn’t wait for an answer, but ordered her father to help lift Mister Laurent from the floor. They dragged him from the room.