Page 20 of To Love

No.

Though Alden wished for her to refuse him, she would not.

“Of course,” Lady Elara—or Elara, though it would be difficult to think of her as such—said to him. As always, his tone toward her was more curt than Alden cared for.

“I did not wish to speak of it before the others, nor would I put our investigation at risk, but since we did not meet this eve . . .”

Did he simply want an update from her, and nothing more?”

“Ashford, oddly, requested we meet on the morrow instead. I do not know his reasons, but agreed as I’ve canceled lessons and was in Pembroke’s office all day.”

“Did you discover anything?”

Elara paused, long enough for Alden to notice, so likely long enough for Stirling to notice as well.

“I’ve discovered enough to make Pembroke and Ashford’s concerns my own.”

She offered no specifics. Did Elara not trust Stirling with the information?

“Such as?”

Alden did not imagine the sharp edge to Stirling’s question. He liked it not.

“Records that would indicate someone does, indeed, have access to Pembroke’s private quarters, and is bold enough to use that access to put our men in jeopardy.”

“You seem reluctant, my lady, to offer details?”

Alden rolled his eyes. He stated the obvious, but if Stirling thought to get Elara to reveal something she did not wish to reveal, he knew the lady not at all.

“I will do so with the council.”

“Of which I am a member.”

“I am aware, Lord Stirling.”

Her tone took the same edge as his. Alden sheathed his knife. It was clear Lord Stirling did not intend to harm her, but he did press her hard for information. Was it simply curiosity? Or something more?”

“If there is a traitor in this castle, the implications—”

“I am aware of the implications,” Elara cut him off. “More than anyone.” This time, she hid none of her annoyance. The woman was not to be trifled with.

“Of course.” Stirling’s tone, terse, nevertheless conceded defeat, as did his words. “I will expect a full update on the morrow.”

“And you will have one, my lord.”

Alden could no longer hear their words, but he did hear the door shutting moments later. His own opened with a creak. Elara stood there, staring at him.

He spoke first. “You do not trust him?”

“I trust no one,” she said, coming into the chamber.

The bedchamber.

That Alden was alone with her so close to where Elara slept was not lost on him.

“Sir Eamon?”

“Perhaps him.”