This had to have been the longest ride in Jack and Leopold's life.
Leopold didn't complain, but every time Jack looked at him, he was
grimacing in pain or he was breathing heavy. The journey was taking its
toll on him, and it was obvious from his pale and clammy skin. It was a
beautiful spring day and the sun beat down on them, Jack managed to find a
shady spot to rest, but Leopold refused to get off the horse,
"If I get off, I'll never get back on, and you won't be able to lift me on your own."
"What did I tell you, this was a stupid idea. Why are we doing this? You aren't going to make it to London. You are getting worse with every mile."
"Granted, I am in a hell of a lot of pain, but that's all it is…pain. I can deal with it. Once we are in London, I will be able to rest."
"You should be resting at Balinor. You know if anything happens to you I will be to blame."
"This is my doing. You are just my accomplice and nothing is going to happen to me. Stop being so paranoid. We will be in London in a few hours."
Jack watched as Leopold cringed again in pain, and he took a bottle out of his saddlebag, "This should help. The doctor left it for you to take if the pain was bad."
Jack tried to hand it to him and he pushed it away with his free hand, "I definitely won't make it to London, if I take that. That is morphine, Jack and I wouldn't know my hand from my foot on that concoction, let alone be able to point my horse in the direction of London. Granted, it does take the pain away momentarily. So I either take the morphine for the pain and forget about making it to London anytime today, or we carry on. I am for carrying on."
Jack put his head in his hand, he had no solution and his worry grew every minute.
"I know you are worried about me, but the sooner we get to London, the sooner your mind will be put at ease."
"And what is to say you will rest in London, you seem hell bent on this whole Edgar business. Why can't you forget about that for now? Give yourself some time to recuperate."
"If you were shot on Edgar Spencer's property, would you be able to forget about it? He could come after Kate or any other member of my family; I have to get to the bottom of this now, before some other dreadful thing happens. You know what he's like Jack."
Jack couldn't argue, he knew probably more what he was like than Leopold. And he had rapped Janet. Something Leopold knew nothing about. "Right then, we should get a move on." He passed Leopold a flask of water, and Leopold took a drink, after he handed it back to Jack, Jack poured some into a handkerchief and handed it back to him, "For your face, might make you feel a bit better."
Leopold took and wiped his brow, then took hold of the reigns, "I'm ready."
They headed out on the road, making their way towards London.
Kate was restless all day; she was told Leopold would probably be there by lunch, but lunch passed and no sign of him. Teatime passed and no sign of him. Finally Aunt Agnes talked her into a walk in Hyde Park. Her waiting at the front window was doing her no good.
"I really should stay, he could be here at anytime. I want to be here when he gets here."
"Dear child, you waiting at the window is a sure sign he won't be here at any moment. It is a beautiful day and you are going to accompany me in the park. I hear the flowers are splendid, at this time of year. And I always love to see the children floating the boats across the boating lake. I use to take Philip and Millard there when they were small. Philip's boat would always be the fastest, Millard's quite often sunk and he would cry. Of course then Philip would be obliged to give his to Millard, and Millard would manage to sink that one as well." She was trying to get Kate's mind off Leopold and she managed a smile.
"I guess a short walk would be okay."
"Lovely."
It was close to 5pm when they left the house in Kensington for their walk. It was a lovely time of the day, just turning dusk. There was still a good hour and a half till the sunset. Kate hoped that on their return Leopold would be sitting in the front room waiting for her and that image kept her spirits up as they headed down the street towards the park.
The last hours ride had been horrendous, Leopold was exhausted and weak, and Jack had taken the reigns and led Mordred the last few miles into London. They must have been quite a sight. Jack was a wreck; he just wanted to get there. Leopold kept drifting and a couple of times Jack thought he would fall off the horse. He wondered if any more blood had been lost. With Leopold's jacket draped over his shoulder, his sling was not visible, and he wasn't about to stop now. They were so close. Jack was relieved as they turned a corner on the high street and he saw the row of townhouses, one of them belonging to the Mountbattens. He turned to Leopold.
"Leopold, hold on for just a few minutes more, please."
"I'm fine." But he wasn't. They pulled up in front of the house. Jack got off Merlin, tying him to a post, and doing the same for Mordred. Otis had seen them pull up and when he stepped out onto the street, was shocked by his master's appearance,
"What in god's name has happened?"
"I will fill you as soon as we get him up to bed."
Leopold slipped his right leg over the saddle, and managed to get off the horse, but once his feet hit the ground, he started to collapse; Jack and Otis held him up on either side.
"Kate, where's Kate?" Leopold mumbled.
"She's gone for a walk, sir."
"Alone? I don't want her to be alone."
"With Lady Mountbatten. I am sure she won't be long. We need to get you up to bed, sir."
Jack was relieved to have Otis there. He knew Leopold would listen to Otis.
"Right, bed. Sounds good."
Janet had heard the commotion and was at the door as they walked up the stairs, "Oh, my god. Jack, what happened?"
"Later."
Leopold's jacket had fallen off and she saw the blood soaked sling, "He's bleeding, Jack."
"What?"
Jack looked over and saw the blood, and freaked. "Janet get me some clean sheets or something, something to clean him up. I should've checked him earlier, I knew this would happen. I think his stitches have torn. This is not good."
They got him upstairs. And with Otis' help they took off his shirt, and undid the blood soaked bandages. Janet stood behind them holding sheets and a bowl of water, "I can do it if you like, I had some training in first aid, at college,"
Jack looked at her, she looked so sweet and innocent standing there, wanting to help. But all he could think about was her reaction to him bare- chested, he did not want her in here with Leopold half naked and he snapped, "You get out. Otis and I have the situation under control."
"I only want to help. Why are you being so cruel?" she started to cry, and Leopold still coherent but barely, grabbed Jack by the arm
"Is that anyway to treat your fiancé?"
Jack turned to her, taking the items from her hands and setting them down next to the bed, and Otis began to clean Leopold's wound.
He gave her a hug, "Look, it's been quite a day, I shouldn't have snapped. You should go wait for Kate. This is going to be quite a shock for her." He held on to her, feeling helpless and wished they were reunited under different circumstances. Janet knew he wasn't himself, and sensed his concern and anxiety, she wished she could make this all go away for all of their sakes.
"Is he going to be alright?"
"God, I hope so."
He kissed her forehead, and she managed a smile, she looked over at Leopold, and the smile disappeared. He looked horrible. Kate would be devastated. She left the room.
Jack assisted Otis. The stitches had torn a bit, but it didn't seem too bad. They dressed the wound and Otis found a pillow and propped it under his shoulder and arm, Jack remembering the medicine in his bag, fetched it and Leopold was pretty adamant about not taking it.
"I am in bed, I am resting. I am fine."
"I wish you would stop saying that." He looked at Otis, "Does he look fine to you, Otis?"
"Far from it. Maybe I should fetch the doctor."
"No doctors." The discomfort was obvious every time he made an effort to speak.
Otis held up the bottle of morphine, "This can only help, sir, I would strongly advise you take it."
"It will knock me out, what good will I be then?"
"What good are you now, sir? Rest is what you need."
Jack smiled. Leopold wouldn't argue with Otis.
Defeated, he took a swig of the bottle with Otis's help.
"Now are you both happy."
"I am afraid, sir, I won't be happy till I see some improvement. And I for one will stand guard by this door and will not allow you out of this bed, until I see it."
Leopold felt himself drifting again, and began to relax, "I am in safe hands, I can see that. I want to be woken when Kate arrives, is that clear?" Otis didn't need to answer, because Leopold was asleep in a matter of seconds.
Jack sat down and let out a sigh, "I could've used you yesterday. He would never have come to London if you would have been at Balinor. He listens to you."
"You should go down to the kitchen and have the cook fix you something. You don't look much better than he does."
"You'll stay with him?"
"That's my job. Of course, I will."
"I should never have let him talk me into this trip. It's only made things worse."
"Don't be to hard on yourself, Jack. Master Leopold is as stubborn as they come. When he sets his mind on something, there is no talking him out of it. I for one am glad you were with him. If you would have declined on the journey, he would have done it on his own, and I can only see that would have come to a grave ending."
"I am sure you are curious about what happened?"
"There's plenty of time for that. You go downstairs and sit with your young lady for a while, get some food in you. There is nothing any of us can do right now. He is getting the rest he needs and that is what is important."
"I suppose I need to go speak to his uncle and aunt."
"They've gone out for cocktails, Kate stayed behind to wait for Leopold."
"Ah, Kate. That one is going to be difficult." Jack looked over at Leopold lying still on the bed, and was glad Otis would now be able to keep him still, long enough to recover, how long that would be, was hard to say?
Kate and Agnes were walking back from the park and the sun had just gone down. Kate was happy. They had had a wonderful talk, and the fresh air had done her wonders. She decided she loved London, in just the short time she had been here. Hyde Park was similar to Central Park, and watching children play and people out for strolls had made her think of New York. She missed it, but she still had no regrets in her decision. This was worth it. She looked at her surroundings, the buildings, tree-lined streets, carriages lining the streets…then she saw Mordred, Leopold's horse tied up in front of the house. She picked up her skirt and ran towards the house. Leopold was here. Agnes smiled at her future great nieces enthusiasm. To be young and in love, was such a wonderful thing.
Kate couldn't help but notice, Merlin tied next to Mordred, and wondered who had accompanied him on his trip. Maybe Jack. That would have been just like Leopold, to ask Jack to join him, so he could spend some time with Janet away from the stables. Janet would be so pleased.
She skipped up the stairs, and as she entered the house she called out his name, "Leopold."
She looked in the front room and he wasn't there, in fact no one seemed to be around. She climbed up the stairs, and called his name again.
Jack sat in the kitchen having something to eat; Janet sat across from him listening to what had happened. She couldn't believe it.
"You really think it was Edgar?"
"Or one of his hired help. That crazy groundskeeper of his is a possibility. I don't
know, Janet. It all happened so fast. And now Leopold is determined to get to the bottom of it and to sort out the financial difficulties. It's a right mess. I should never have let him go into those woods. I had a bad feeling about it."
"You couldn't stop him. He has a mind of his own, and he rides like a mad man half the time. It isn't your fault and I am sure Leopold does not blame you."
Jack hadn't heard the front door open at first, but then he heard Kate's voice and he and Janet exchanged glances. He stood up, and Janet took his hand and squeezed it lovingly.
"Kate. Kate's back. I have to go see her." He kissed Janet's cheek and then raced out of the room, but realized he was too late; she was already headed up the stairs.
Kate swung open Leopold's door, she saw Otis first sitting in a chair reading a book, he looked up solemnly and then stood, moving towards her. She saw what he was trying to hide from her, Leopold lying still in bed. His left arm lying at a funny angle, bandages on the left shoulder, on the floor Leopold's blooksoaked shirt. She gasped, and felt faint; Otis caught her "Miss Katherine, it's alright. He is just resting, I gave him some medication. You need to talk to Jack, he can explain what has happened." He started to walk her to the door, and Jack appeared.
He took her off Otis' hands, holding her up, "You need to sit down."
She turned back around to look at Leopold, "I should stay with him. Jack, what's happened? He looks so pale."
"Come downstairs, I'll explain everything."
"No, I want to stay here with him."
"He'll be out for hours, you will do him no good here. He needs his rest."
She tried pulling away from Jack but it was no use, and she finally stopped struggling and collapsed in his arms. He held her tight stroking her hair, comforting her. Not knowing what to say, but felt he was doing some good just being there for her. He took her downstairs and into the front room joining Janet and Aunt Agnes.
She sat next to Agnes and looked across at Jack and Janet waiting for an explanation. And some kind of strength came over her. She took a deep breath and held back the tears.
"Are you going to tell me what happened? Leopold is lying in a bed upstairs, with some kind of injury, practically comatose. I want to know everything. Don't you even think of keeping things from me."
Agnes put her hand on Kate's knee, patting it, "You need to calm down dear. I am sure Jack will tell us the whole story."
"There was an accident yesterday in the woods, near the Old Howe Road."
Kate didn't have any idea where that even was and looked confused, "Is that supposed to mean something to me?"
Janet budded in, "I told you, Kate, about Jack and Leopold racing through the woods when they were boys. Edgar use to chase them."
"Those woods are on Edgar's property, right?"
They nodded.
"What kind of accident, did he fall off his horse, what?"
"He was shot."
"Shot? With a gun?"
"I am afraid so."
"Oh, my god. This isn't just some accident. This is serious. You're holding back on me, Jack. Who shot him?"
"We don't know. It was more than likely just an unfortunate accident, probably Lord Spencer's groundskeeper. They are a funny lot about trespassers."
"I don't buy it. It was Edgar wasn't it?"
"Like I said, we don't know. It happened so fast. I managed to get him back to the house, but he had lost a lot of blood and slipped into unconsciousness. The doctor removed the bullet and stitched him up, the damage is minimal, just some damaged muscle tissue and basically that is it."
"No, wait a second, that isn't it. Somehow you managed to get him to London on horseback, which has to have been the stupidest thing you've ever done. Don't you have any idea how dangerous that could have been? What am I saying, the ride made him worse didn't it, Jack? That is why he's lying in bed right now on pain killers." She had raised her voice, and was angry with him.
Agnes spoke up, "Was it your idea to come to London, Jack?"
"Of course not, do you take me for a fool. All I wanted him to do was stay in bed, but he insisted. What choice did I have? I am not Otis; he doesn't listen to my advice. I am sorry Kate. If I could've kept him at Balinor, I would've. Look, I feel bad enough as it is."
Agnes stood up, "The important thing is that he is here and he is getting the rest he needs to recover. Jack, you did what you could. We all know how stubborn Leopold can be. Kate, Jack is not to blame for this unfortunate incident."
The door opened and Millard and Margaret walked in, "What unfortunate incident are we referring to, Aunt Agnes." They all looked at each other, and then Millard realized Jack was in the room, "Jack, what are you doing here? I saw Leopold's horses out front," he looked around the room noticing he was not present, "I assume he is on the premises somewhere, but I don't understand his reasoning bringing you along."
Agnes went over to her nephew and put her hand on his shoulder, "Leopold is upstairs, sleeping."
"Leopold sleeping at this hour? Isn't it a bit early? It must have been an exhausting journey for you both." Margaret could tell by Agnes' expression, the unfortunate incident had something to do with Leopold.
"What has happened to Leopold?" She looked at Jack, noticed blood on his sleeve of his jacket. Millard seemed confused.
"He has been shot.." Agnes replied
Margaret put her hand over her mouth, "Oh, my god, I must see him. Is he going to be alright? Has he seen a doctor? How could this have happened?"
Millard comforted his wife, putting his arms around her, and then addressed Jack, "Did this happen today, on your journey here?"
"No, my lord, yesterday."
"What? And you brought him here?"
Agnes saw Jack's expression and she looked at Millard, "That was your nephew's idea, not Jack's."
Jack had had enough, "I really need some fresh air, I think I will go see to the horses, and get them settled in the yard. Lady Mountbatten and Miss Katherine can fill you in on Master Leopold's condition, excuse me." As he started to walk out Millard called his name.
"Jack, no one has excused you."
Agnes put her hand on his shoulder, "Let him go, Millard, he has been through enough in the past two days."
Kate too had had enough, "Jack, you are excused. And I am truly sorry I was rough on you earlier. Aunt Agnes is right, you have been through enough. I am grateful you were with him today. I don't want to hear anymore about this right now. You are so concerned about what has happened, Lord Mountbatten, but you haven't even asked how Leopold is."
"I will go see for myself." As he turned to go upstairs, she stopped him.
"No, you won't. As Leopold's fiancé, I don't want him disturbed this evening, by anyone."
"I beg your pardon, Miss McKay." Millard was furious.
Janet was shocked by Kate's statement, and could see tension in the air. "He needs his rest, and I have been informed that he probably won't even wake up till morning. Otis is with him now, if he needs any assistance. You can see him in the morning."
Jack had not yet made it to the door, and turned around smiling at Kate. He was proud of her for standing up to Millard.
"How dare you speak to me that way, Miss McKay? This is my home and Leopold is my nephew. You on the other hand are just a guest, and are not yet family. I have every right to check on my nephew's condition."
"Not tonight. Excuse me." She walked out of the room and up the stairs.
Margaret had to hold Millard back, "She is right, he is in good hands and we will see him in the morning once he has had a good night's rest."
"I don't like her demeanor one bit."
"She is thinking of Leopold, Millard. She is doing what any right minded fiancé or wife would do in the situation. Did you even think for one minute how this is affecting her? She loves Leopold with all her heart, what if something were to happen to him?"
Millard didn't want to think of that, for when he did, he only saw Edgar's face. Now more than ever Millard felt he hadn't protected Leopold as he should've. Something needed to be done. But first, getting Leopold well was a priority. Other business would have to be put on hold.
Kate contemplated going to Leopold, but listened to her own advice, let him rest. She entered her room and fell down on the bed, burying her head in a pillow, and began to cry. This scared her. It wasn't like there were efficient doctors with efficient methods in this time. Everything was a risk. Infection was a possibility. Her mind swarmed with various scenarios, and it sickened her. Everything that had transpired within the last few days seemed unimportant and meaningless now. She could hardly remember the reason they hadn't spoken, but they hadn't spoken. And that bothered her as well, if something happened…nothing would have been resolved, and she couldn't live like that. Janet entered the room,
"Kate, is there anything I can get for you?"
"No, god, I feel so helpless."
"Go to him. It might make you feel like you are doing something."
"But he won't know I am there."
"He might know. If it were Jack, I wouldn't leave his side."
"I told Lord Mountbatten he couldn't see him. What kind of person am I? What right do I have? Of course they are worried about him."
"Leopold doesn't need to see his uncle. On the other hand, if he were to wake and you were by his side, you would be the best kind of medicine."
"You are a hopeless romantic, Janet."
"Nothing wrong with that. So what are you going to do?"
She went to the wardrobe and took out her nightdress, "Get ready for bed."
"And…"
"Go to Leopold." Kate smiled.
Janet smiled back.
Kate quietly opened the door and Otis smiled up at her, "I thought you might be back, Miss Katherine. I could use a break, if you don't mind watching over him for awhile."
"I would be glad to. How's he doing?"
She walked over to the bed, and noticed how peaceful he looked. "Not a peep out of him, miss. I really think he's out for the night."
"That's good. He needs his rest. I just wanted to sit with him. "
"Of course, that's understandable. I am just going down to the kitchen to get a cup of tea, can I get you anything?"
"No, I am fine. Everything I need is right here."
Otis smiled at her, and left the room. Kate pulled up a chair, getting it as close to the bed as possible. She sat in the chair, with her legs up on the seat, both of them tucked up under her nightdress and both arms wrapped around her legs. Not a way any 19th century lady would sit, but it was comfortable for her. His face looked peaceful and serene, but pale and pasty, but his body position, looked awkward, and she wanted to move him to make him more comfortable. His left arm bent away from his body, like a rag dolls. His other hand rested above the covers on his leg. She leaned over and placed her hand on top of his. His skin clammy to the touch, but it gave her some satisfaction that she was there. She didn't know how long she had been sitting there, but she started to doze off, then she snapped out of it when she felt a squeeze on her hand. She looked down at the bed and saw Leopold had taken hold of her hand. She looked up at his face, and saw a faint smile, eyes droopy, "Ah, Kate." It was the sweetest thing.
She took her free hand and placed it over his lips, "Schhh. You need to save all your strength. I didn't mean to disturb you, you really need to go back to sleep."
"I just want to look at you for awhile. You look beautiful."
"You look awful."
"Thank-you. Nothing but the best for my future wife. I did make an effort."
It was nice to hear him joke,
"We need to talk" he then looked serious.
"Not tonight. You have talked enough. I want you to close your eyes, go back to sleep."
"Kate, what I have to say…"
She put her finger to his mouth again, "There is plenty time for that. Can I get you anything, a drink?" She saw the bottle of morphine by his bed, "Is the pain horrible, maybe you need some more medicine?"
"The pain has subsided immensely since you walked into the room, you are the only medicine I require."
"Will you be quiet now?"
"Will you stay?"
"Till you fall asleep, yes."
"No, will you stay with me all night."
"Leopold, you can't possibly have a goodnight's sleep with me here all night, and I will get no sleep sleeping in this chair, I will be unbearable, and not a pleasant person to be around at all in the morning."
"There's room next to me."
"Oh, that is a wise choice. Your uncle and aunt would have a fit."
"I want you to stay, Kate. I want you next to me all night. Like in New York, at your apartment. You asked me to stay then, and I gladly obliged, couldn't you possibly return the favor?"
He looked up at her pleadingly, and she lifted the covers and slipped in beside him. He couldn't roll over on his side, because of his arm, but she snuggled up to him, her head on his right shoulder. His right arm around her, she rested her right arm across his bare stomach. He managed to kiss the top of her head. He sighed in contentment. "Now that is much better, don't you agree?"
Tears came to her eyes, and she didn't want Leopold to see them, but he felt one on his shoulder, "Kate, are you crying?"
"What if you would've died? Leopold, it just seems one bad thing after another keeps happening. I don't want to lose you."
He squeezed her with one good arm, and kissed the top of her head, "I am going to be alright, especially now that you are here. Nothing else bad is going to happen."
"You can't say that. I mean yesterday, you were just out for a pleasant ride, and someone shot at you. You don't know what will happen."
"All I know right now is that I love you. And this is what is important. You and me." He felt pain shoot through his shoulder and his whole body tensed. Kate felt it as well.
"You are in pain, I should let you rest." She started to get out of bed and he managed to hold her down with the little strength he had.
"You are staying put. The pain comes and goes, whether you are here or not. We both should get some rest." She looked up at him and he had already closed his eyes, everything seemed to wear him out. She hoped that tomorrow there would be some kind of improvement, and she had to remember not to give him anything else to worry about. She closed her eyes, content being his arms, being close to him, knowing she was making some difference even if very slight.
When Otis came back to Leopold's room, he saw them both asleep; Kate nestled up next to him. He smiled and quietly left the room. He wouldn't be needed the rest of the night.
Jack was out back of the house, where there was a small yard for the horses. He was exhausted. After settling the horses in, he sat down in the hay, with his head in his hands. The last 24 hours had been intense and now he just wanted to close his eyes and sleep. He started to doze when he felt a soft kiss on his cheek; he opened his eyes and found Janet kneeling beside him,
"You aren't sleeping out here, there is an extra bed in Otis' room. Come on, get up," He wouldn't budge.
"I think I'd rather stay out here."
"Jack, stop it. I know everyone has been quick to judge that this is your fault, but
They all know the truth now. And no one blames you. Tomorrow you will see, Leopold will be so much better, and everyone will be over the shock, and there won't be all this tension."
"How is Kate?"
"She's with him. I told her if it was you, I wouldn't leave your side."
He smiled at her, "Really?"
"Yes, really. I'm glad you're here, Jack. I really missed you."
He took her in his arms, and kissed her, losing his balance and they falling over in the hay, both laughing. "It's lovely to see you smile again." She stroked the side of his face,
"I'm taking you out tomorrow."
"You are?"
"Of course it depends on Leopold's condition. But if there is an improvement, I want to take you for a ride in the park."
"Just you and me?"
"Yes. And the horses of course. You'll have to ride sidesaddle; I really think that would be appropriate. We can take a picnic."
She smiled, "I suppose I could manage sidesaddle for you, Jack."
She kissed him." And you can't be so forward."
She pulled away, "What do you mean?"
"It's not lady like."
"I thought you liked when I kissed you."
"I do. But the man should make the initiative."
"If I feel like kissing you, Jack Blackmore, I will kiss you. Is that understood?"
"Well…"
"It's either understood or not. If you think I will wait for you to kiss me, I could be waiting for days or weeks, or even months."
"I am not that bad."
"It has taken you over 10 years to pluck up the nerve to kiss me."
He pulled her closer to him and passionately kissed her, when he let her go, she was blushing, "there are plenty more of those Miss Collins, and they will be frequent if I feel you are deserving."
She struggled against him and he laughed. He was teasing, and didn't let her go. "I am not ready to let you go."
"I liked it better when you were romantic. Stop teasing me."
He smiled sweetly at her and gently kissed her, "I can be romantic. And I don't really mind when you kiss me, just maybe not in public."
"Well, maybe I won't be able to control myself. I can't just turn on and off, Jack. And around you I am pretty much on all the time."
He was now blushing, and started to stand up, giving her his hand to help her up, "I think that bed sounds good. Come on."
"Is that an invitation?" She smiled at him coyly.
Now he was truly embarrassed. "Of course not. I told you my intentions yesterday. Let me rephrase that. Going to bed alone sounds good."
She enjoyed teasing him, he took hold of her hand and they headed into the house She smiled triumphantly. She knew he would be thinking of her when he crawled under the covers and that was exactly how she wanted it.
Kate was awoken in the middle of the night by Leopold thrashing next to her. He was mumbling, and obviously having a bad dream. He yelled out, "Rest assured I will be the cause of your demise, if you ever harm any member of my family again." Kate sat up and tried to wake him, "Leopold, wake up."
He jolted up, swinging his bad arm, causing excruciating pain, and missing Kate. She managed to take hold of his good arm, "Leopold, you're having a bad dream. It's alright." He was sweating and breathing heavily, and he let out a blood-curdling yell. He then seemed to focus on Kate and he looked startled and disoriented. His free hand clenched at his shoulder, and Kate managed to get him to lie back down. "Calm down, take deep breathes. It's alright."
He did as she told him, but he looked frightened, and it kind of freaked her out. There was a bowl and cloth by the side of the bed and she reached for it and began to wipe his forehead. He began to relax, but he was still trembling. The yell had awoken the rest of the household and it was only a matter of minutes before the door opened and Otis, in his dressing gown, followed by a very disheveled looking Jack who had obviously fallen asleep in his clothes, entered the room. Otis went to his master's side and Kate looked up to him for guidance.
"He had a bad dream, he was mumbling something about someone's demise, and he tried to hit me. It was really strange."
Otis picked up the bottle of morphine and poured a spoonful out, "I think he could have another dose, it's been over 8 hours."
Kate started to get out of bed and Leopold took hold of her hand, "You said you would stay."
"And I will."
He cooperated with Otis, as he gave him the medicine and propped his pillows for comfort. Millard and Margaret entered the room, and Margaret was shocked at the sight of Kate in her nightdress, kneeling on Leopold's bed. They exchanged glances, and Kate tried to get up, but Leopold's grip wouldn't budge.
"We heard a yell, is everything alright?"
Otis turned to them, "He was having a bad dream, he should be fine now. I don't expect any more disturbances the rest of the night."
It was the first time they had seen him, and Margaret covered her mouth, so not to gasp. Leopold noticed it, "I can't look that bad, Aunt Margaret." He managed a slight smile.
"No, of course, not, you look…"she turned away from him in tears and couldn't even stay in the room.
Millard turned towards the door, watching her flee and then back to Leopold, eyeing Kate. "I will let you have your rest, Otis seems to be taking good care of you and I am sure there will be much improvement in the morning."
He squeezed Kate's hand, "And Kate. Kate is taking good care of me."
Jack couldn't help but notice Millard's distain for the situation and it made him smile. He had never much liked the man, and it was wonderful seeing him cringe at the possibility his perfect nephew had actually been in bed with a woman, and in front of the servants. This was not appropriate behavior. Jack almost laughed, and let out a little snicker, Millard turned to him, "What are you smiling at?"
"Nothing your, lordship. I am glad to see Leopold doing so much better."
"Well, we should all leave Leopold in peace now." Leopold's eyes were getting droopy. Millard turned to Kate, "Come along, Katherine."
"She is staying with me." Leopold managed to say, although slightly slurred.
"She will do no such thing."
"I am an invalid, Uncle Millard, I am doped up with morphine, the probabilities of anything happening in this bed, are very slim, no not slim…nil."
His eyelids started to flicker, "I am extremely tired, I must sleep."
Otis escorted an agitated Millard out, Jack followed.
Otis turned back to Kate, "If you need anything, please don't hesitate in coming to get me."
"Thanks." Leopold was already out of it, but he was still holding onto her hand, "You are so good with him."
"I think you are the one that is good with him, I can see my services might not be required once you are wed."
"I could never take your place, Otis. Leopold needs you. I need you."
He smiled, "Good night, Miss Katherine."
"Goodnight, Otis." The door shut and she managed to slip under the covers again, taking her hand out of his so she could lie down next to him. He shuffled and Kate took hold of his hand, he sighed and drifted into sleep. Kate wished it could be so easy for her, she couldn't get the image of him sitting up and yelling out of her mind, and the words he had spoken. She was pretty sure he was talking about Edgar, and it concerned her. He was now going to be on this mission to get back at Edgar, or something. And it was bound to only have more repercussions in the Mountbatten household. She hated the fact she was starting to think his demise would be a good thing. She would never wish that on anyone, but it was spoiling hers and Leopold's happiness, and she really didn't like the guy. She was not going to be able to let this go. Something had to be done.
"
"If I get off, I'll never get back on, and you won't be able to lift me on your own."
"What did I tell you, this was a stupid idea. Why are we doing this? You aren't going to make it to London. You are getting worse with every mile."
"Granted, I am in a hell of a lot of pain, but that's all it is…pain. I can deal with it. Once we are in London, I will be able to rest."
"You should be resting at Balinor. You know if anything happens to you I will be to blame."
"This is my doing. You are just my accomplice and nothing is going to happen to me. Stop being so paranoid. We will be in London in a few hours."
Jack watched as Leopold cringed again in pain, and he took a bottle out of his saddlebag, "This should help. The doctor left it for you to take if the pain was bad."
Jack tried to hand it to him and he pushed it away with his free hand, "I definitely won't make it to London, if I take that. That is morphine, Jack and I wouldn't know my hand from my foot on that concoction, let alone be able to point my horse in the direction of London. Granted, it does take the pain away momentarily. So I either take the morphine for the pain and forget about making it to London anytime today, or we carry on. I am for carrying on."
Jack put his head in his hand, he had no solution and his worry grew every minute.
"I know you are worried about me, but the sooner we get to London, the sooner your mind will be put at ease."
"And what is to say you will rest in London, you seem hell bent on this whole Edgar business. Why can't you forget about that for now? Give yourself some time to recuperate."
"If you were shot on Edgar Spencer's property, would you be able to forget about it? He could come after Kate or any other member of my family; I have to get to the bottom of this now, before some other dreadful thing happens. You know what he's like Jack."
Jack couldn't argue, he knew probably more what he was like than Leopold. And he had rapped Janet. Something Leopold knew nothing about. "Right then, we should get a move on." He passed Leopold a flask of water, and Leopold took a drink, after he handed it back to Jack, Jack poured some into a handkerchief and handed it back to him, "For your face, might make you feel a bit better."
Leopold took and wiped his brow, then took hold of the reigns, "I'm ready."
They headed out on the road, making their way towards London.
Kate was restless all day; she was told Leopold would probably be there by lunch, but lunch passed and no sign of him. Teatime passed and no sign of him. Finally Aunt Agnes talked her into a walk in Hyde Park. Her waiting at the front window was doing her no good.
"I really should stay, he could be here at anytime. I want to be here when he gets here."
"Dear child, you waiting at the window is a sure sign he won't be here at any moment. It is a beautiful day and you are going to accompany me in the park. I hear the flowers are splendid, at this time of year. And I always love to see the children floating the boats across the boating lake. I use to take Philip and Millard there when they were small. Philip's boat would always be the fastest, Millard's quite often sunk and he would cry. Of course then Philip would be obliged to give his to Millard, and Millard would manage to sink that one as well." She was trying to get Kate's mind off Leopold and she managed a smile.
"I guess a short walk would be okay."
"Lovely."
It was close to 5pm when they left the house in Kensington for their walk. It was a lovely time of the day, just turning dusk. There was still a good hour and a half till the sunset. Kate hoped that on their return Leopold would be sitting in the front room waiting for her and that image kept her spirits up as they headed down the street towards the park.
The last hours ride had been horrendous, Leopold was exhausted and weak, and Jack had taken the reigns and led Mordred the last few miles into London. They must have been quite a sight. Jack was a wreck; he just wanted to get there. Leopold kept drifting and a couple of times Jack thought he would fall off the horse. He wondered if any more blood had been lost. With Leopold's jacket draped over his shoulder, his sling was not visible, and he wasn't about to stop now. They were so close. Jack was relieved as they turned a corner on the high street and he saw the row of townhouses, one of them belonging to the Mountbattens. He turned to Leopold.
"Leopold, hold on for just a few minutes more, please."
"I'm fine." But he wasn't. They pulled up in front of the house. Jack got off Merlin, tying him to a post, and doing the same for Mordred. Otis had seen them pull up and when he stepped out onto the street, was shocked by his master's appearance,
"What in god's name has happened?"
"I will fill you as soon as we get him up to bed."
Leopold slipped his right leg over the saddle, and managed to get off the horse, but once his feet hit the ground, he started to collapse; Jack and Otis held him up on either side.
"Kate, where's Kate?" Leopold mumbled.
"She's gone for a walk, sir."
"Alone? I don't want her to be alone."
"With Lady Mountbatten. I am sure she won't be long. We need to get you up to bed, sir."
Jack was relieved to have Otis there. He knew Leopold would listen to Otis.
"Right, bed. Sounds good."
Janet had heard the commotion and was at the door as they walked up the stairs, "Oh, my god. Jack, what happened?"
"Later."
Leopold's jacket had fallen off and she saw the blood soaked sling, "He's bleeding, Jack."
"What?"
Jack looked over and saw the blood, and freaked. "Janet get me some clean sheets or something, something to clean him up. I should've checked him earlier, I knew this would happen. I think his stitches have torn. This is not good."
They got him upstairs. And with Otis' help they took off his shirt, and undid the blood soaked bandages. Janet stood behind them holding sheets and a bowl of water, "I can do it if you like, I had some training in first aid, at college,"
Jack looked at her, she looked so sweet and innocent standing there, wanting to help. But all he could think about was her reaction to him bare- chested, he did not want her in here with Leopold half naked and he snapped, "You get out. Otis and I have the situation under control."
"I only want to help. Why are you being so cruel?" she started to cry, and Leopold still coherent but barely, grabbed Jack by the arm
"Is that anyway to treat your fiancé?"
Jack turned to her, taking the items from her hands and setting them down next to the bed, and Otis began to clean Leopold's wound.
He gave her a hug, "Look, it's been quite a day, I shouldn't have snapped. You should go wait for Kate. This is going to be quite a shock for her." He held on to her, feeling helpless and wished they were reunited under different circumstances. Janet knew he wasn't himself, and sensed his concern and anxiety, she wished she could make this all go away for all of their sakes.
"Is he going to be alright?"
"God, I hope so."
He kissed her forehead, and she managed a smile, she looked over at Leopold, and the smile disappeared. He looked horrible. Kate would be devastated. She left the room.
Jack assisted Otis. The stitches had torn a bit, but it didn't seem too bad. They dressed the wound and Otis found a pillow and propped it under his shoulder and arm, Jack remembering the medicine in his bag, fetched it and Leopold was pretty adamant about not taking it.
"I am in bed, I am resting. I am fine."
"I wish you would stop saying that." He looked at Otis, "Does he look fine to you, Otis?"
"Far from it. Maybe I should fetch the doctor."
"No doctors." The discomfort was obvious every time he made an effort to speak.
Otis held up the bottle of morphine, "This can only help, sir, I would strongly advise you take it."
"It will knock me out, what good will I be then?"
"What good are you now, sir? Rest is what you need."
Jack smiled. Leopold wouldn't argue with Otis.
Defeated, he took a swig of the bottle with Otis's help.
"Now are you both happy."
"I am afraid, sir, I won't be happy till I see some improvement. And I for one will stand guard by this door and will not allow you out of this bed, until I see it."
Leopold felt himself drifting again, and began to relax, "I am in safe hands, I can see that. I want to be woken when Kate arrives, is that clear?" Otis didn't need to answer, because Leopold was asleep in a matter of seconds.
Jack sat down and let out a sigh, "I could've used you yesterday. He would never have come to London if you would have been at Balinor. He listens to you."
"You should go down to the kitchen and have the cook fix you something. You don't look much better than he does."
"You'll stay with him?"
"That's my job. Of course, I will."
"I should never have let him talk me into this trip. It's only made things worse."
"Don't be to hard on yourself, Jack. Master Leopold is as stubborn as they come. When he sets his mind on something, there is no talking him out of it. I for one am glad you were with him. If you would have declined on the journey, he would have done it on his own, and I can only see that would have come to a grave ending."
"I am sure you are curious about what happened?"
"There's plenty of time for that. You go downstairs and sit with your young lady for a while, get some food in you. There is nothing any of us can do right now. He is getting the rest he needs and that is what is important."
"I suppose I need to go speak to his uncle and aunt."
"They've gone out for cocktails, Kate stayed behind to wait for Leopold."
"Ah, Kate. That one is going to be difficult." Jack looked over at Leopold lying still on the bed, and was glad Otis would now be able to keep him still, long enough to recover, how long that would be, was hard to say?
Kate and Agnes were walking back from the park and the sun had just gone down. Kate was happy. They had had a wonderful talk, and the fresh air had done her wonders. She decided she loved London, in just the short time she had been here. Hyde Park was similar to Central Park, and watching children play and people out for strolls had made her think of New York. She missed it, but she still had no regrets in her decision. This was worth it. She looked at her surroundings, the buildings, tree-lined streets, carriages lining the streets…then she saw Mordred, Leopold's horse tied up in front of the house. She picked up her skirt and ran towards the house. Leopold was here. Agnes smiled at her future great nieces enthusiasm. To be young and in love, was such a wonderful thing.
Kate couldn't help but notice, Merlin tied next to Mordred, and wondered who had accompanied him on his trip. Maybe Jack. That would have been just like Leopold, to ask Jack to join him, so he could spend some time with Janet away from the stables. Janet would be so pleased.
She skipped up the stairs, and as she entered the house she called out his name, "Leopold."
She looked in the front room and he wasn't there, in fact no one seemed to be around. She climbed up the stairs, and called his name again.
Jack sat in the kitchen having something to eat; Janet sat across from him listening to what had happened. She couldn't believe it.
"You really think it was Edgar?"
"Or one of his hired help. That crazy groundskeeper of his is a possibility. I don't
know, Janet. It all happened so fast. And now Leopold is determined to get to the bottom of it and to sort out the financial difficulties. It's a right mess. I should never have let him go into those woods. I had a bad feeling about it."
"You couldn't stop him. He has a mind of his own, and he rides like a mad man half the time. It isn't your fault and I am sure Leopold does not blame you."
Jack hadn't heard the front door open at first, but then he heard Kate's voice and he and Janet exchanged glances. He stood up, and Janet took his hand and squeezed it lovingly.
"Kate. Kate's back. I have to go see her." He kissed Janet's cheek and then raced out of the room, but realized he was too late; she was already headed up the stairs.
Kate swung open Leopold's door, she saw Otis first sitting in a chair reading a book, he looked up solemnly and then stood, moving towards her. She saw what he was trying to hide from her, Leopold lying still in bed. His left arm lying at a funny angle, bandages on the left shoulder, on the floor Leopold's blooksoaked shirt. She gasped, and felt faint; Otis caught her "Miss Katherine, it's alright. He is just resting, I gave him some medication. You need to talk to Jack, he can explain what has happened." He started to walk her to the door, and Jack appeared.
He took her off Otis' hands, holding her up, "You need to sit down."
She turned back around to look at Leopold, "I should stay with him. Jack, what's happened? He looks so pale."
"Come downstairs, I'll explain everything."
"No, I want to stay here with him."
"He'll be out for hours, you will do him no good here. He needs his rest."
She tried pulling away from Jack but it was no use, and she finally stopped struggling and collapsed in his arms. He held her tight stroking her hair, comforting her. Not knowing what to say, but felt he was doing some good just being there for her. He took her downstairs and into the front room joining Janet and Aunt Agnes.
She sat next to Agnes and looked across at Jack and Janet waiting for an explanation. And some kind of strength came over her. She took a deep breath and held back the tears.
"Are you going to tell me what happened? Leopold is lying in a bed upstairs, with some kind of injury, practically comatose. I want to know everything. Don't you even think of keeping things from me."
Agnes put her hand on Kate's knee, patting it, "You need to calm down dear. I am sure Jack will tell us the whole story."
"There was an accident yesterday in the woods, near the Old Howe Road."
Kate didn't have any idea where that even was and looked confused, "Is that supposed to mean something to me?"
Janet budded in, "I told you, Kate, about Jack and Leopold racing through the woods when they were boys. Edgar use to chase them."
"Those woods are on Edgar's property, right?"
They nodded.
"What kind of accident, did he fall off his horse, what?"
"He was shot."
"Shot? With a gun?"
"I am afraid so."
"Oh, my god. This isn't just some accident. This is serious. You're holding back on me, Jack. Who shot him?"
"We don't know. It was more than likely just an unfortunate accident, probably Lord Spencer's groundskeeper. They are a funny lot about trespassers."
"I don't buy it. It was Edgar wasn't it?"
"Like I said, we don't know. It happened so fast. I managed to get him back to the house, but he had lost a lot of blood and slipped into unconsciousness. The doctor removed the bullet and stitched him up, the damage is minimal, just some damaged muscle tissue and basically that is it."
"No, wait a second, that isn't it. Somehow you managed to get him to London on horseback, which has to have been the stupidest thing you've ever done. Don't you have any idea how dangerous that could have been? What am I saying, the ride made him worse didn't it, Jack? That is why he's lying in bed right now on pain killers." She had raised her voice, and was angry with him.
Agnes spoke up, "Was it your idea to come to London, Jack?"
"Of course not, do you take me for a fool. All I wanted him to do was stay in bed, but he insisted. What choice did I have? I am not Otis; he doesn't listen to my advice. I am sorry Kate. If I could've kept him at Balinor, I would've. Look, I feel bad enough as it is."
Agnes stood up, "The important thing is that he is here and he is getting the rest he needs to recover. Jack, you did what you could. We all know how stubborn Leopold can be. Kate, Jack is not to blame for this unfortunate incident."
The door opened and Millard and Margaret walked in, "What unfortunate incident are we referring to, Aunt Agnes." They all looked at each other, and then Millard realized Jack was in the room, "Jack, what are you doing here? I saw Leopold's horses out front," he looked around the room noticing he was not present, "I assume he is on the premises somewhere, but I don't understand his reasoning bringing you along."
Agnes went over to her nephew and put her hand on his shoulder, "Leopold is upstairs, sleeping."
"Leopold sleeping at this hour? Isn't it a bit early? It must have been an exhausting journey for you both." Margaret could tell by Agnes' expression, the unfortunate incident had something to do with Leopold.
"What has happened to Leopold?" She looked at Jack, noticed blood on his sleeve of his jacket. Millard seemed confused.
"He has been shot.." Agnes replied
Margaret put her hand over her mouth, "Oh, my god, I must see him. Is he going to be alright? Has he seen a doctor? How could this have happened?"
Millard comforted his wife, putting his arms around her, and then addressed Jack, "Did this happen today, on your journey here?"
"No, my lord, yesterday."
"What? And you brought him here?"
Agnes saw Jack's expression and she looked at Millard, "That was your nephew's idea, not Jack's."
Jack had had enough, "I really need some fresh air, I think I will go see to the horses, and get them settled in the yard. Lady Mountbatten and Miss Katherine can fill you in on Master Leopold's condition, excuse me." As he started to walk out Millard called his name.
"Jack, no one has excused you."
Agnes put her hand on his shoulder, "Let him go, Millard, he has been through enough in the past two days."
Kate too had had enough, "Jack, you are excused. And I am truly sorry I was rough on you earlier. Aunt Agnes is right, you have been through enough. I am grateful you were with him today. I don't want to hear anymore about this right now. You are so concerned about what has happened, Lord Mountbatten, but you haven't even asked how Leopold is."
"I will go see for myself." As he turned to go upstairs, she stopped him.
"No, you won't. As Leopold's fiancé, I don't want him disturbed this evening, by anyone."
"I beg your pardon, Miss McKay." Millard was furious.
Janet was shocked by Kate's statement, and could see tension in the air. "He needs his rest, and I have been informed that he probably won't even wake up till morning. Otis is with him now, if he needs any assistance. You can see him in the morning."
Jack had not yet made it to the door, and turned around smiling at Kate. He was proud of her for standing up to Millard.
"How dare you speak to me that way, Miss McKay? This is my home and Leopold is my nephew. You on the other hand are just a guest, and are not yet family. I have every right to check on my nephew's condition."
"Not tonight. Excuse me." She walked out of the room and up the stairs.
Margaret had to hold Millard back, "She is right, he is in good hands and we will see him in the morning once he has had a good night's rest."
"I don't like her demeanor one bit."
"She is thinking of Leopold, Millard. She is doing what any right minded fiancé or wife would do in the situation. Did you even think for one minute how this is affecting her? She loves Leopold with all her heart, what if something were to happen to him?"
Millard didn't want to think of that, for when he did, he only saw Edgar's face. Now more than ever Millard felt he hadn't protected Leopold as he should've. Something needed to be done. But first, getting Leopold well was a priority. Other business would have to be put on hold.
Kate contemplated going to Leopold, but listened to her own advice, let him rest. She entered her room and fell down on the bed, burying her head in a pillow, and began to cry. This scared her. It wasn't like there were efficient doctors with efficient methods in this time. Everything was a risk. Infection was a possibility. Her mind swarmed with various scenarios, and it sickened her. Everything that had transpired within the last few days seemed unimportant and meaningless now. She could hardly remember the reason they hadn't spoken, but they hadn't spoken. And that bothered her as well, if something happened…nothing would have been resolved, and she couldn't live like that. Janet entered the room,
"Kate, is there anything I can get for you?"
"No, god, I feel so helpless."
"Go to him. It might make you feel like you are doing something."
"But he won't know I am there."
"He might know. If it were Jack, I wouldn't leave his side."
"I told Lord Mountbatten he couldn't see him. What kind of person am I? What right do I have? Of course they are worried about him."
"Leopold doesn't need to see his uncle. On the other hand, if he were to wake and you were by his side, you would be the best kind of medicine."
"You are a hopeless romantic, Janet."
"Nothing wrong with that. So what are you going to do?"
She went to the wardrobe and took out her nightdress, "Get ready for bed."
"And…"
"Go to Leopold." Kate smiled.
Janet smiled back.
Kate quietly opened the door and Otis smiled up at her, "I thought you might be back, Miss Katherine. I could use a break, if you don't mind watching over him for awhile."
"I would be glad to. How's he doing?"
She walked over to the bed, and noticed how peaceful he looked. "Not a peep out of him, miss. I really think he's out for the night."
"That's good. He needs his rest. I just wanted to sit with him. "
"Of course, that's understandable. I am just going down to the kitchen to get a cup of tea, can I get you anything?"
"No, I am fine. Everything I need is right here."
Otis smiled at her, and left the room. Kate pulled up a chair, getting it as close to the bed as possible. She sat in the chair, with her legs up on the seat, both of them tucked up under her nightdress and both arms wrapped around her legs. Not a way any 19th century lady would sit, but it was comfortable for her. His face looked peaceful and serene, but pale and pasty, but his body position, looked awkward, and she wanted to move him to make him more comfortable. His left arm bent away from his body, like a rag dolls. His other hand rested above the covers on his leg. She leaned over and placed her hand on top of his. His skin clammy to the touch, but it gave her some satisfaction that she was there. She didn't know how long she had been sitting there, but she started to doze off, then she snapped out of it when she felt a squeeze on her hand. She looked down at the bed and saw Leopold had taken hold of her hand. She looked up at his face, and saw a faint smile, eyes droopy, "Ah, Kate." It was the sweetest thing.
She took her free hand and placed it over his lips, "Schhh. You need to save all your strength. I didn't mean to disturb you, you really need to go back to sleep."
"I just want to look at you for awhile. You look beautiful."
"You look awful."
"Thank-you. Nothing but the best for my future wife. I did make an effort."
It was nice to hear him joke,
"We need to talk" he then looked serious.
"Not tonight. You have talked enough. I want you to close your eyes, go back to sleep."
"Kate, what I have to say…"
She put her finger to his mouth again, "There is plenty time for that. Can I get you anything, a drink?" She saw the bottle of morphine by his bed, "Is the pain horrible, maybe you need some more medicine?"
"The pain has subsided immensely since you walked into the room, you are the only medicine I require."
"Will you be quiet now?"
"Will you stay?"
"Till you fall asleep, yes."
"No, will you stay with me all night."
"Leopold, you can't possibly have a goodnight's sleep with me here all night, and I will get no sleep sleeping in this chair, I will be unbearable, and not a pleasant person to be around at all in the morning."
"There's room next to me."
"Oh, that is a wise choice. Your uncle and aunt would have a fit."
"I want you to stay, Kate. I want you next to me all night. Like in New York, at your apartment. You asked me to stay then, and I gladly obliged, couldn't you possibly return the favor?"
He looked up at her pleadingly, and she lifted the covers and slipped in beside him. He couldn't roll over on his side, because of his arm, but she snuggled up to him, her head on his right shoulder. His right arm around her, she rested her right arm across his bare stomach. He managed to kiss the top of her head. He sighed in contentment. "Now that is much better, don't you agree?"
Tears came to her eyes, and she didn't want Leopold to see them, but he felt one on his shoulder, "Kate, are you crying?"
"What if you would've died? Leopold, it just seems one bad thing after another keeps happening. I don't want to lose you."
He squeezed her with one good arm, and kissed the top of her head, "I am going to be alright, especially now that you are here. Nothing else bad is going to happen."
"You can't say that. I mean yesterday, you were just out for a pleasant ride, and someone shot at you. You don't know what will happen."
"All I know right now is that I love you. And this is what is important. You and me." He felt pain shoot through his shoulder and his whole body tensed. Kate felt it as well.
"You are in pain, I should let you rest." She started to get out of bed and he managed to hold her down with the little strength he had.
"You are staying put. The pain comes and goes, whether you are here or not. We both should get some rest." She looked up at him and he had already closed his eyes, everything seemed to wear him out. She hoped that tomorrow there would be some kind of improvement, and she had to remember not to give him anything else to worry about. She closed her eyes, content being his arms, being close to him, knowing she was making some difference even if very slight.
When Otis came back to Leopold's room, he saw them both asleep; Kate nestled up next to him. He smiled and quietly left the room. He wouldn't be needed the rest of the night.
Jack was out back of the house, where there was a small yard for the horses. He was exhausted. After settling the horses in, he sat down in the hay, with his head in his hands. The last 24 hours had been intense and now he just wanted to close his eyes and sleep. He started to doze when he felt a soft kiss on his cheek; he opened his eyes and found Janet kneeling beside him,
"You aren't sleeping out here, there is an extra bed in Otis' room. Come on, get up," He wouldn't budge.
"I think I'd rather stay out here."
"Jack, stop it. I know everyone has been quick to judge that this is your fault, but
They all know the truth now. And no one blames you. Tomorrow you will see, Leopold will be so much better, and everyone will be over the shock, and there won't be all this tension."
"How is Kate?"
"She's with him. I told her if it was you, I wouldn't leave your side."
He smiled at her, "Really?"
"Yes, really. I'm glad you're here, Jack. I really missed you."
He took her in his arms, and kissed her, losing his balance and they falling over in the hay, both laughing. "It's lovely to see you smile again." She stroked the side of his face,
"I'm taking you out tomorrow."
"You are?"
"Of course it depends on Leopold's condition. But if there is an improvement, I want to take you for a ride in the park."
"Just you and me?"
"Yes. And the horses of course. You'll have to ride sidesaddle; I really think that would be appropriate. We can take a picnic."
She smiled, "I suppose I could manage sidesaddle for you, Jack."
She kissed him." And you can't be so forward."
She pulled away, "What do you mean?"
"It's not lady like."
"I thought you liked when I kissed you."
"I do. But the man should make the initiative."
"If I feel like kissing you, Jack Blackmore, I will kiss you. Is that understood?"
"Well…"
"It's either understood or not. If you think I will wait for you to kiss me, I could be waiting for days or weeks, or even months."
"I am not that bad."
"It has taken you over 10 years to pluck up the nerve to kiss me."
He pulled her closer to him and passionately kissed her, when he let her go, she was blushing, "there are plenty more of those Miss Collins, and they will be frequent if I feel you are deserving."
She struggled against him and he laughed. He was teasing, and didn't let her go. "I am not ready to let you go."
"I liked it better when you were romantic. Stop teasing me."
He smiled sweetly at her and gently kissed her, "I can be romantic. And I don't really mind when you kiss me, just maybe not in public."
"Well, maybe I won't be able to control myself. I can't just turn on and off, Jack. And around you I am pretty much on all the time."
He was now blushing, and started to stand up, giving her his hand to help her up, "I think that bed sounds good. Come on."
"Is that an invitation?" She smiled at him coyly.
Now he was truly embarrassed. "Of course not. I told you my intentions yesterday. Let me rephrase that. Going to bed alone sounds good."
She enjoyed teasing him, he took hold of her hand and they headed into the house She smiled triumphantly. She knew he would be thinking of her when he crawled under the covers and that was exactly how she wanted it.
Kate was awoken in the middle of the night by Leopold thrashing next to her. He was mumbling, and obviously having a bad dream. He yelled out, "Rest assured I will be the cause of your demise, if you ever harm any member of my family again." Kate sat up and tried to wake him, "Leopold, wake up."
He jolted up, swinging his bad arm, causing excruciating pain, and missing Kate. She managed to take hold of his good arm, "Leopold, you're having a bad dream. It's alright." He was sweating and breathing heavily, and he let out a blood-curdling yell. He then seemed to focus on Kate and he looked startled and disoriented. His free hand clenched at his shoulder, and Kate managed to get him to lie back down. "Calm down, take deep breathes. It's alright."
He did as she told him, but he looked frightened, and it kind of freaked her out. There was a bowl and cloth by the side of the bed and she reached for it and began to wipe his forehead. He began to relax, but he was still trembling. The yell had awoken the rest of the household and it was only a matter of minutes before the door opened and Otis, in his dressing gown, followed by a very disheveled looking Jack who had obviously fallen asleep in his clothes, entered the room. Otis went to his master's side and Kate looked up to him for guidance.
"He had a bad dream, he was mumbling something about someone's demise, and he tried to hit me. It was really strange."
Otis picked up the bottle of morphine and poured a spoonful out, "I think he could have another dose, it's been over 8 hours."
Kate started to get out of bed and Leopold took hold of her hand, "You said you would stay."
"And I will."
He cooperated with Otis, as he gave him the medicine and propped his pillows for comfort. Millard and Margaret entered the room, and Margaret was shocked at the sight of Kate in her nightdress, kneeling on Leopold's bed. They exchanged glances, and Kate tried to get up, but Leopold's grip wouldn't budge.
"We heard a yell, is everything alright?"
Otis turned to them, "He was having a bad dream, he should be fine now. I don't expect any more disturbances the rest of the night."
It was the first time they had seen him, and Margaret covered her mouth, so not to gasp. Leopold noticed it, "I can't look that bad, Aunt Margaret." He managed a slight smile.
"No, of course, not, you look…"she turned away from him in tears and couldn't even stay in the room.
Millard turned towards the door, watching her flee and then back to Leopold, eyeing Kate. "I will let you have your rest, Otis seems to be taking good care of you and I am sure there will be much improvement in the morning."
He squeezed Kate's hand, "And Kate. Kate is taking good care of me."
Jack couldn't help but notice Millard's distain for the situation and it made him smile. He had never much liked the man, and it was wonderful seeing him cringe at the possibility his perfect nephew had actually been in bed with a woman, and in front of the servants. This was not appropriate behavior. Jack almost laughed, and let out a little snicker, Millard turned to him, "What are you smiling at?"
"Nothing your, lordship. I am glad to see Leopold doing so much better."
"Well, we should all leave Leopold in peace now." Leopold's eyes were getting droopy. Millard turned to Kate, "Come along, Katherine."
"She is staying with me." Leopold managed to say, although slightly slurred.
"She will do no such thing."
"I am an invalid, Uncle Millard, I am doped up with morphine, the probabilities of anything happening in this bed, are very slim, no not slim…nil."
His eyelids started to flicker, "I am extremely tired, I must sleep."
Otis escorted an agitated Millard out, Jack followed.
Otis turned back to Kate, "If you need anything, please don't hesitate in coming to get me."
"Thanks." Leopold was already out of it, but he was still holding onto her hand, "You are so good with him."
"I think you are the one that is good with him, I can see my services might not be required once you are wed."
"I could never take your place, Otis. Leopold needs you. I need you."
He smiled, "Good night, Miss Katherine."
"Goodnight, Otis." The door shut and she managed to slip under the covers again, taking her hand out of his so she could lie down next to him. He shuffled and Kate took hold of his hand, he sighed and drifted into sleep. Kate wished it could be so easy for her, she couldn't get the image of him sitting up and yelling out of her mind, and the words he had spoken. She was pretty sure he was talking about Edgar, and it concerned her. He was now going to be on this mission to get back at Edgar, or something. And it was bound to only have more repercussions in the Mountbatten household. She hated the fact she was starting to think his demise would be a good thing. She would never wish that on anyone, but it was spoiling hers and Leopold's happiness, and she really didn't like the guy. She was not going to be able to let this go. Something had to be done.
"
