Gavin had never seen Judith cry. She showed him hostility, passion, humor, but never this horrible racking grief. He felt a deep sadness that she did not share her grief with him.
“Judith,” Stephen said. “You must rest. You have been very ill.”
“How long have I been ill?”
“Three days. The fever nearly took you from us.”
She sniffed, then abruptly drew away from him. “Stephen! You were to leave. You will be late for your own wedding.”
He nodded grimly. “I was to wed her this morning.”
“Then you have left her at the altar.”
“I would hope she heard that I didn’t arrive and would not go so far.”
“Did you send a message?”
He shook his head. “If the truth were told, I forgot. We have all worried greatly about you. You don’t know how close you came to death.”
She did feel weak and extremely tired.
“Now you must sleep again.”
“And you will go to your bride?” Judith asked as he helped her lie down.
“I can go now that I know the fever is broken.”
“Promise me,” she said tiredly. “I wouldn’t wish you to start your marriage as mine was. I want better for you.”
Stephen glanced quickly at his brother. “Yes, I promise. I will leave within the hour.”
She nodded, her eyes closing. “Thank you,” she whispered and fell asleep.
Gavin rose from the bed as his brother did. “I too forgot your marriage.”
“You had other things on your mind,” Stephen answered. “Is she still angry with you?”
Gavin gave his brother a cynical look. “More than angry, I would say.”
“Talk to her. Tell her how you feel. Tell her the truth about Alice. She will believe you.”
Gavin looked across the room at his sleeping wife. “You must pack now. That Scots bride will have your hide.”
“If that were all she wished, I would give it to her gladly.”
Both men left the room, closing the door behind. Gavin clasped his brother to him. “Christmas,” he said smiling. “Bring that wife of yours to us at Christmas.”
“Yes, I will. And you will speak to Judith?”
Gavin nodded. “When she is better rested and I am bathed.”
Stephen smiled. Gavin had not left his wife’s sid
e for the three days of her fever. Stephen cuffed his brother affectionately and turned and left the hallway.
When Judith woke again, it was dark in the room. Joan was sleeping on a pallet near the door. Judith’s head was clearer and she felt stronger and very hungry. “Joan,” she whispered.
The maid was on her feet instantly. “My lady,” she said and grinned happily. “Lord Gavin said you were well again, but I didn’t believe him.”