Page 4 of Deception

Dies?Linnae froze in confusion. How did she tell a dying man that his granddaughter had died? Why did they think she was Lady Alison? She and Lady Alison had the same blonde hair and fair complexion. Still…

Jacob smiled down at her. “I know you are exhausted, but your grandfather would fare well with a visit from ye.”

The sorrow in his eyes twisted her heart. Richard looked at her, expression solemn. The laird meant a great deal to them.

“I will escort you.” Jacob cupped her elbow and started them across the foyer with Richard close behind.

They reached the stairs and she started up, with Jacob close behind and Richard taking up the rear. They climbed to the third floor. Two guards stood outside the fourth room on the right. As they neared the door, Linnae’s heart began to thud. How could she lie to the old man, to Richard….to Jacob? If she told them the truth, would they force her to leave? Would they be angry that she had lived instead of Lady Alison? Maybe Jacob would be kind enough to allow her to stay on as a serving girl.

She slowed. “He is old. He may no’ even recognize me.”

Jacob gave her a gentle smile. “Lyel is old, but he is as sound of mind as I am. He will recognize ye.”

She stopped, unable to command her legs to take another step.

Jacob frowned. “What is it, my lady? He is old, but I promise you, it isn’t so terrible.”

She should comply, but guilt stabbed hard.

Jacob’s gaze shifted to Richard. “Leave us.”

The warrior nodded and continued to the old man’s door.

Jacob directed her back several paces to a small alcove they’d passed, gently urged her onto the stone bench located there, then sat beside her.