At the roughness of his voice, she shook her head. “I am sorry.”
“As am I. One day King Philip will regret his treachery to the Brotherhood.”
“He will,” Gwendolyn whispered, as would Comyn. She shoved aside thoughts of the noble, savored the gentle breeze sliding past edged with the scent of the sea. “When will Aiden begin the assault?”
“At the hour of the wolf.”
“A Templar phrase?” she asked with a smile.
“Nay. This expression was coined long before the formation of the Brotherhood. It means the hour before dawn.”
Her smile faded. “I have sailed with my father over the years but never heard that phrase.”
“Because ’tis a term familiar to warriors.”
“I see.” An icy prickle swept up her spine as she glanced toward the fortress. “I fear many will die.” Including Aiden. A tremor slid through her. No, he must live!
“Shielded by fog, we shall be able to position ourselves to gain the advantage,” Cailin explained. “During the attack, the loss of life will be minimal and, more importantly, belong to the English.”
“I wish ’twas over,” she breathed.
He grunted. “’Twill be soon enough.”
Torches flickered on the distant wall walk, and she faced the warrior, his eyes watching her in the fading light. “I doubt you have come to speak of tactics.”
He removed his water pouch, offered her a drink.
“Nay.”
After several sips, Cailin secured the top, stowed the sewn leather. “You care for Aiden.”
She smothered the surge of emotion. In her heart, she had reconciled herself to letting him live the life he desired. “He and I have come to an arrangement.”
“Arrangement,” he scoffed. “’Tis a situation neither of you want. Once Latharn Castle is seized, ’tis a mistake if you lethim walk away.”
“He has told you the details of our arrangement?”
Cailin gave a curt nod.
Hurt he’d shared their private agreement, she stiffened. “Why?”
“In truth, I badgered him because heis my friend.”
Far from understanding, Gwendolyn frowned. “Then why are you not raising your concerns to him?”
He grunted. “I assure you, I tried. He refuses to listen.”
“And what makes you think talking with me will change anything?”
Blue eyes riveted on her. “If I didna believe you cared for Aiden, I assure you, I wouldna be here.” He raised his hand as she made to speak. “He is more stubborn than most.”
That she could attest to.
“Tell me, has he spoken with you since we left KingRobert’s camp?”
An ache squeezed her chest. “Nay.”
“Nay doubt because he believes ’tis for the best.” He released a frustrated sigh, then stared at her for a long moment. “I am here to help you win Aiden. Doyou want him?”
