章 30: Chapter 30

Augusta finished grooming the stallion, more than a little amazed that the powerful animal stood so docilely while she worked. The repetitive motions soothed a little of her anger and gave her a chance to catch her breath, away from the too-keen eyes of Lord Bruxton. Finally, though, the work was done and it was time to face him again.

"Let us get you inside, my lord." She hung the curry comb on its peg and dusted off her hands. "We may yet be able to dine before the sun sets." By her reckoning, sunset was perhaps an hour away, so it would be close. Could she really make an injured man ride to a strange village after dark? Ballocks! He couldn't stay here.

She helped him inside and settled him at the table in the kitchen before running back outside to fetch her basket and the few provisions she'd bought in town. Fortunately she'd purchased a big wedge of cheese and Margaret had left several loaves of fresh bread along with the chicken stew simmering on the stove.