Debra Kay Leland Read Free Page A

Thomas were never far away.  And as the days turned into weeks, though William had slowly began to recover, yet they worried on for neither of them had been able find any proof that would point to whoever had done this evil thing.  It could have been anyone—and they worried that whoever it might have been would find a way to finish the deed!
    Thomas had gone to the village, but had not heard a whisper of any who had armor and could fight, nor had any man that had ridden with them not returned—save James’ men, who had gone with him to Kent and until they returned he could not know for sure.  But even that did not make sense to him, for James’ men had no reason to do such a thing to William!  He had no claim on the title, nor the lands!  And even James’ men were treated with respect by William.  No, it made no sense at all—and yet someone truly had tried to kill him…!
     
    The afternoon sun hung heavy in the sky as William awoke again and tried to sit up unsteadily, touching his head as he did so.  He glanced at his friend who was now standing aside him with a grim look on his young face.  “I am fine, Phillip, ye need not worry so.”  He glanced around blinking as he straightened.  “Tell me I have not lost the entire day yet again?”
    “Aye, ’tis nigh eventide, but the rest has done ye good, for each day ye look better.”
    William sighed heavily and sank back against the pillows again knowing what the mirror had told him of the swelling and blackened eyes that had yet remained on his thin pale face.  “I fear I shall not recover speedily...”  He paused and his face grew grim knowing that the longer he stayed, the greater the opportunity that his own brother might yet try to take his life—though he spoke his concerns to no one.  “Has there been any news...?”
    “Nay, William, all is well.  We shall not let anythi ng happen to thee, I promise.”
    He nodded and looked towards the window , his thoughts distant and troubled.  Phillip watched him knowing what he was thinking of again; the same troubling thoughts that had haunted them all.  Though he was thankful that the wound had healed and that William’s wits had also grown stronger, yet he still worried for his health and his safety.  William hardly spoke of the attack now, but yet they all knew it was ever on his mind.  He slowly sat up again, pulling himself towards the end of the bed.  “Then… I would like to take my meal in the great hall tonight with my father and his men.”
    Phillips jumped up, worry written on his face as William stood unsteadily.  “Nay, William, ‘tis too soon!”
    But he merely smiled.  “I shall manage, Phillip.  Come now, do not look so worried.  ‘Tis time I showed my face at my father’s table.  Perhaps , it would convince those watching that they have nothing to fear from me.”
    The Phillip scowled at his words, but yet agreed.  He knew that William would somehow make it down the stairs to the great hall even if they had to carry him.  And he also knew that he was right, it was time…
    Somehow, William did manage and sat at his father’s high table with Phillip and Thomas on either side of him.  His father’s knights were already seated along the sides waiting for the meal to begin and when they saw him being helped towards the great curved stairs, all stood and a cheer went up at the sight of him as he came down to join them.  His father stood also and hurried to his side, hugging him hardily before he helped him to the table.  “Are ye well enough to attempt such a thing, William?”
    He smiled warmly.  “Aye, father, I am.”
    His father’s smile matched his own.  “Alas, it does my heart good to see thee up and at my tab le again.  Come sit, William!”
    He sat down unsteadily and smiled at those who wished him well.  Phillip and Thomas sat down too, glancing at their friend with worried eyes as they ate, knowing that William didn’t have to do much to convince