Secret of the Kings

By D. Van Heest

Evellyn is determined to follow her heart and her future is all but set when she meets a handsome stranger with luminous green.

Finding true love, Reid must have Evellyn at all costs, however the price is high considering all he'd have to give up to keep her. Still, he disobeys his father to set out on a journey that will change his fate and win her heart.

Their chance encounter leads them both on a dangerous and revealing path discovering Reid's true origins and the secret her family has been keeping for years. Will Evellyn lose her heart to this handsome stranger who turns out to be more than she ever expected? Or will he too become another secret, a secret of the Kings.

• Language: English
• Publisher: D. Van Heest
• Release date: Dec 31, 2011
• ISBN: 9781452446646

D. Van Heest

D. Van Heest is a published American author. She published her first novel, ‘Secret of the Kings’ in 2010. She recently wrote a series entitled 'The Lara Martin Novels' the first being released the fall of 2014 entitled 'One Step Closer' followed by 'Through the Darkness' and 'Into Twilight'. She is single currently living in Lorton, VA.

Book preview

Part I – Knight’s End

Evellyn ran with her heart pounding in her chest. The anxiety she felt drummed inside her, like the wings of an enormous bird desperate for freedom. She took a breath, grit her teeth, and dug her heels in. She was at a dead sprint when she hit the forest line.

Evellyn wove nimbly in and out of the shadows, her legs pumping, and her lungs on fire. The rich, cloying smell of the earth barely registered as she raced between the trees. Just when she thought her chest would burst, the clearing opened up before her and she slowed her pace. She stopped just shy of the water’s edge. For the moment, all thought was gone.

Standing next to the rushing water, her silhouette billowed as the winds lifted her pale yellow skirts. The breeze teased the tendrils of her long mahogany hair that fell in waves down her back. The yammering beat of her heart eased as her breathing slowed. Ordinarily very pretty, Evellyn had a heart-shaped face. Unfortunately, at the moment, her features were pensive and her striking brown eyes were full of sadness.

With the brief moment of solace gone, her troubled mind was once again assailed with troubled thoughts. Running always made her feel better, but today the panic was still there, not so achingly near the surface, but there nonetheless. Feeling frustrated, Evellyn sank into the mossy grass at her feet and tucked her dress under her knees. Her frame was all but obscured by the rustling reeds that grew beside the creek.

She felt the rush of tears and fought to keep them from falling, but it was a losing battle. They streaked treacherously down her cheeks. Discouraged at her own weakness, Evellyn threw herself backward, feeling her breath catch as her back hit the ground with a thud. With tears clinging to her long black eyelashes, she held her breath and laid perfectly still.

After a full minute, she exhaled with exaggerated slowness. She felt calmer. Evellyn stared up at the branches swaying high overhead and thought back to the day she had first arrived at Shrieve. The very reason for her unhappiness.

Evellyn had been ten-years-old when the footman first deposited her and her little sister, Rebecca, on the broken steps of the stone manor she was soon to call home. It was the House of Pherson. She remembered the large manor had been shrouded in rain and thought how strange and out of place their luxurious black and silver carriage looked beside the dark and menacing manor. It was out of place…just like them.

She remembered looking up at the enormous wooden door, too afraid to walk up the steps into the unknown. The decision to leave their home and everything they knew had not been their own, rather a decision taken from them by their parents.

Evellyn had tried to be brave, but when the horses had jumped forward, she had cried out startled. They watched as the carriage – their last connection to home – rolled away and disappeared into the gloom. With too much certainty for a ten-year-old girl, Evellyn knew there was no going back.

Being so young, Evellyn knew very little of the old woman who lived at the manor. She knew her name was Melba and that she was their great-aunt. Her mother had told them Melba was an elderly spinster woman who lived and maintained one of their family’s oldest estates. Knowing the woman was handpicked to govern them did little to comfort Evellyn. All she felt was sadness to being separated from her mother and father.

Hearing her sister’s sniffling, Evellyn had given Rebecca an encouraging smile. It had been hard to be reassuring when the frigid drizzle had penetrated their outerwear and soaked them both nearly to the bone. Squaring her little shoulders, Evellyn found the courage to walk up the steps and knock on the door.

It was several long minutes, before anyone answered. The wooden door had opened with a wayward groan and a stony-faced servant ushered them in. He was about as welcoming as the rain. He didn’t offer to take their cloaks or provide a dry cloth, but had made them wait for the lady of the manor by a cold, unlit hearth.

Rebecca sniffed again and Evellyn gave her hand a hard, comforting squeeze. The minutes ticked by. At last, they heard the spring of a latch and they tensed as a dark figure approached. The figure shuffled, bent and crooked.

Her sister lost her courage and hid her small face in Evellyn’s sleeve, quivering with fear. Evellyn was afraid too, yet breeding rather than bravery made her straighten her back, and though her fear was making her stomach quake, she remembered being curious.

Water had dripped from her nose and Evellyn followed the motion downward with her eyes catching the hem of the lady’s dress as she drew near. No one spoke. Her inquisitive nature finally won out and Evellyn timidly raised her eyes. She looked up into a withered, old face and through the darkness of her despair…she saw the sun.

The utter kindness reflected in the old woman’s blue eyes had been enough to break through Evellyn’s resolve. She began to cry. Great-aunt Melba opened her arms wide and the girls had fallen into her warm embrace. She engulfed them in so much love that Evellyn had felt safe for the very first time since leaving home.

That was eight years ago. As time passed, great-aunt Melba turned out to be the Godsend the girls needed. She was a sweet old woman with short salt and pepper hair and a wonderful smile. She had a trilling, infectious laugh and a generous personality. She was as kind as she was nice never having anything bad to say about anyone.

Melba was also a respected seamstress, legendary throughout the land and extraordinarily skilled. Ladies from all around aspired to be called as an apprentice to the House of Pherson, as the trade was well-respected and profitable. Melba and her apprentices were responsible for all the intricate embroidery, doilies and needle points that decorated Evellyn’s faraway home in Lorien.

Each season, the apprentices would arrive and each season they would go, never allowing the sisters to make any real friends. And as the seasons went by, Evellyn grew more and more frustrated. The girls visited talking freely of boys, courtships, and possible marriages. Evellyn couldn’t have their carefree whimsies and her hopes and dreams, as long as she was there, would never come true.

While her sister became a favorite of her aunt’s, Evellyn merely became a presence in the manor; taking her lessons behind closed doors before disappearing off on her own. She dreamed of meeting someone, going on an adventure, or finding love. Seeing her future set, but no closer to achieving or changing it, true happiness eluded her. And today was one of those days when frustration had taken its toll.

Evellyn was suddenly jostled out of her reverie by a noise in the nearby brush. She sat forward on her elbows, waiting for a deer or perhaps a small fox to come rustling out of the thicket, but quite unexpectedly came a young man. Her eyes widened in surprise.

He didn’t seem to notice her at first and when he did, he was so shocked his feet literally got tangled up and he fell to his knees.

Blast! he cursed, his cheeks brightening with color.

When their gazes met, Evellyn’s breath caught. His eyes were the most remarkable shade of green she had ever seen! The color was so unusual – almost luminescent. Her melancholy quickly disappeared replaced by an overwhelming curiosity. She stood up smoothing down her gown.

The young man hopped up awkwardly, cradling his knee. I apologize if I startled you, he said, brushing off his pants.

Her mouth opened, but nothing came out.

Are you alright? he asked, gazing at her from under a mop of silky blond hair.

Evellyn got her mind around her mouth and spoke. "Yes, are you alright? That was some fall."

I am quite fine. He chuckled looking thoroughly embarrassed having fallen in front of her. Again I didn’t mean to startle you…my horse –

You have a horse? Evellyn loved horses.

Yes, he’s here somewhere, he said, looking around unconcerned. We were trotting through the woods and Pyrois, my horse, took a bad step. I tumbled right off the back.

He seemed to remember his manners for he removed his riding gloves in a hasty gesture to hold out his hand. My name is Reid.

Reid was tall with wide shoulders, silvery-blond hair and younger than she had first thought. His green eyes certainly sparkled and combined with his brilliant smile, he was a handsome man – a boy, really – not much older than herself.

Evellyn, she told him, feeling her face grow warm at the contact when they clasped hands.

That’s a lovely name, he murmured with a smile.

He was watching her with such apparent pleasure that she was beginning to feel embarrassed under his appreciative gaze.

Do you need a stable hand to … The words faltered on her tongue. She tried again. To help you find your horse?

Oh, no, he’ll wonder back around, Reid said with an absent wave of his hand. He was more interested in talking to Evellyn. Just then, he looked around. Are you here alone?

Evellyn realized she was alone and with no good excuse for being out in the woods alone.

Uh, actually, I was just on my way back to the manor…, she replied.

Actually, she hadn’t been on her way back, yet she couldn’t remain unattended with a man she’d just met.

It wasn’t proper, her mother’s voice sounded in her head, which it did…often. Reid was smiling at her and she took a breath to calm herself.

I live up the hill, Evellyn told him, pointing up the hill. They could just see the rooftop through the treetops. She was finding it hard to think with him looking at her that way.

He must have realized how uncomfortable he was making her because he began to busy himself putting his riding gloves back on. I better…go find Pyrois, he said, before giving her a curious look. May I ask, are you here often?

Her heart skipped a beat at the question.

Yes…sometimes. She smiled.

Her voice was barely a whisper, yet he had heard her. His smile brightened as did his marvelous emerald eyes, or at least it appeared they did. Either way, she was dazzled by him, and his smile was incorrigible. She was mesmerized.

Well, I’m off to find my horse, he announced, but his feet lingered. Maybe I’ll see you again sometime.

Maybe. She swallowed nervously.

It was great pleasure to meet you…Evellyn.

It was nice meeting you, she replied awkwardly.

She wasn’t entirely sure how to end their conversation, so she gave him a funny little nod and walked off. At the forest’s edge, she glanced back and found him watching her, those green eyes practically sparkling. Her stomach did a strange little flutter and she hurried away. Her cheeks felt like they were on fire.

Evellyn kept walking until she knew she was out of sight, then she ran!

~~~~~~~

Reid watched Evellyn go, following her every movement until she was out of sight.

Wow, she was beautiful! He was almost afraid to let her go for fear he wouldn’t see her again and all the while they’d been talking, his heart hammered against his chest. He felt it now, beating like a drum threatening to burst out of control.

Just then, a familiar face emerged from the forest.

Pyrois!

The white stallion trotted over to him.

Did you see that? Reid asked, rubbing Pyrois’ soft nose softly. I think I just fell in love.

He sighed with longing remembering Evellyn’s adoringly large brown eyes and all that lustrous hair.

Pyrois stomped his hoof which Reid took as a discouragement.

Oh…I suppose you’re right, he sighed.

A relationship between them would be impossible, still…he remembered the way her smile had started out slow then lit her whole face. Reid was hooked. Nothing was going to stop him from seeing her again!

In one fluid motion, he was up in the saddle gathering the reins. With a spirited toss of his thick neck, Pyrois lunged forward and they disappeared exactly as they had appeared, quite mysteriously.

Chapter 2

Evellyn ran all the way back to the manor and that was some feat because it was mostly uphill. She had a blissful smile on her face and sweat running down her back as she entered the manor.

I met a boy! Never in a million years would she have guessed something like this would happen to her. She had to tell her sister, but when she found her, Rebecca was in no mood to listen.

How do you always manage to disappear right before we’re to do our chores? Rebecca scolded her.

I –

"– and you know we have no apprentices this week to help!"

Her sister was five years younger than Evellyn with ever-changing hazel eyes and a no-nonsense attitude. Right now, she had no time for excuses. Evellyn could see she was upset and hot, Rebecca’s dark blond hair was in sweaty tendrils around her pretty face.

Annoyed, she shoved a dish into Evellyn’s hands and led the way out of the kitchen into the dining hall. Even the rustle of her skirts seemed irritated.

I’m sorry, Evellyn said, but her sister ignored her. Rebecca, listen to me –

Of all days! she scowled. "The Duke from Lorien is coming and you know how much I want to hear news of home. Now I won’t have time to change. Where have you been?"

A moment ago, Evellyn had planned to tell her, but now her lips had a mind of their own. Reid was a wonderful secret she wasn’t ready to divulge yet.

Angry, Rebecca pursed her lips and shook her head. You will never change!

Evellyn sighed knowing she had a streak of rebellion that sometimes streaked out of control.

Rebecca saw her face. Look, I know you hate it here, but this disappearing act is getting old. You need to stop running off. Aunt Melba says –

Oh, I have Aunt Melba to lecture me…not my sister too! Evellyn’s remark was harsher than she had intended and felt bad seeing the hurt expression on her sister’s face. Go get freshened up, she told her. I’ll finish this.

Rebecca was surprised at the generosity. Are you sure?

Yes, go, she replied, taking the dish from her hands. Evellyn was far too happy to quarrel with her sister today.

Rebecca rushed off and Evellyn got to work finishing the chores. All the while with a secret little smile on her face.

~~~~~~~

By the time the evening meal was ready, both girls were able to freshen up. However, as it turned out the Duke from Lorien was under the weather and not in the mood to chat. He retired shortly after dinner and so did the girls.

Once the chamber door was closed, Evellyn let out a happy sigh and fell backward on the bed.

What’s going on with you? Rebecca gave her a critical eye.

Evellyn smiled. Nothing.

You were too nice at dinner and right now your cheeks are blushing, you’re smiling an awful lot, and…what is that in your eyes? Happiness?

Evellyn giggled.

What’s happened?

She shook her head and bit her lip.

Eve! Rebecca reverted to Evellyn’s childhood nickname and stamped her foot impatiently.

Beck! she reverted to her childhood nickname. Rebecca’s mouth fell open. Okay, I met someone! She couldn’t believe the words that were coming out of her mouth, but it was true…so very, very true.

Her sister was stunned. "What? Where? How?"

I don’t know! she gushed, covering her mouth happily. I was down by the brook and he just appeared, out of nowhere. He had these amazing eyes –

He just appeared, she repeated in disbelief, "in the woods?"

I know…it was incredible, Evellyn replied, breathlessly. He was out riding and his horse got away from him.

Him who?

Her sister was full of questions, but Evellyn was lost in her own thoughts. He had the most incredible green eyes…

~~~~~~~

The very next afternoon, Evellyn found herself at the brook and was delighted to see Reid that day and every day after waiting for her. She didn’t go alone. Rebecca, who normally hated all nature, was with her.

At first, Rebecca kept her distance from them as they visited, but Reid wouldn’t have it. He included her over again and again until she finally relented. Now both girls enjoyed his company.

Evellyn found him a compelling and fascinating person. Aside from the flashing green eyes that held them both captive, Reid was witty, insightful, passionate and charismatic. Because of him, her melancholy completely disappeared and as summer drifted along the affection between them grew. It was the most memorable summer of her life.

They’d read together, take walks, and talked about everything. Sometimes they would bring Reid fruit or rolls or whatever they could find in the kitchen and they’d all have a makeshift picnic. He even brought Pyrois to meet them. Evellyn had never seen a lovelier horse. He was a tall, pure white stallion with the softest black muzzle.

On the really hot days, they’d take off their shoes and wade in the creek to cool off. One afternoon, the clouds darkened and rain began pouring down. The three of them hid on the boughs of a Pedunculate Oak, wet and laughing. While Rebecca climbed as high as she could, Reid kissed Evellyn for the first time. Their lips tasted like rain.

Rebecca knew they stole moments alone and she purposefully found reasons to excuse herself. She’d look for bird nests downstream or watch the baby ducks out on the water.

As the days turned to weeks and the weeks to months, those moments became ever more precious to them. Upon occasion, Reid would help Evellyn to her feet and their fingers would remain intertwine. The closeness made them both breathless. Often in these moments, they had absolutely nothing to say to each other. They were simply happy being together.

In the many summers Evellyn had been there, that summer turned out to be the best…and the worst.

~~~~~~~

One humid afternoon, Evellyn was unusually quiet. She had something to discuss and no idea how to broach the subject.

Are you feeling alright? Reid asked her, a little concerned.

They were sitting on a blanket in the cool grass. Evellyn fiddled with a blade of grass.

We’ve never really talked about our families, she said, hesitantly. My sister and I are not here as apprentices. Our family sent us here…for a reason.

She could feel his eyes watching her face.

What reason? he asked.

For years my family has been plagued by a witch, she confessed and looked to see if he found her statement unbelievable. She only saw concern in his eyes.

A witch? he repeated.

"She calls herself a witch," Evellyn said, the corners of her mouth turning down in a frown.

Her name was Darragh, she explained, and she was a terror that had haunted them their entire lives. Growing up, she’d been a constant threat to Evellyn’s family. She’d burn the crops and kill the animals. She’d send them poisoned food and even kidnap some of their servants. She was a cruel and malicious woman. Evellyn had never actually seen her, but from the stories she was described as hideously disfigured with a dreadful scar across her face.

When I was ten, she broke into our home and ransacked everything. She burnt the draperies, most of our clothes, destroyed the beautiful linens in every room. It was awful! she recalled. It was then that our father decided to send us away…to keep us safe.

She looked passed Reid to the creek and watched the sunlight dance on the water.

You miss your family, he said, but she shook her head.

Reid, my eighteenth birthday is this year. Soon my father will call me home.

He didn’t seem to understand what she was telling him.

I’ll have to leave.

The news upset Reid greatly. He got to his feet and pulled her with him. He intimately interlaced his fingers with hers. The contact was warm and exciting.

"Leave? I don’t want you to leave…ever."

Her lips trembled and the tears came, hot and fresh. I don’t want to, she confessed, feeling emotions she never had before. But Shrieve is not my home.

Can’t you stay? he asked, but her heart-broken face seemed to tell him everything he needed to know. No.

Evellyn started to cry.

Just then her sister came skipping back hoping to find them some awkward embrace. She stopped when she saw Evellyn’s face.

You told him, she said. Evellyn turned her back and folded her arms. Rebecca turned to Reid. She doesn’t have to marry him!

"Rebecca." Evellyn whirled around to glare at her sister.

Reid’s mouth dropped open. You’re engaged?

No! Evellyn adamantly shook her head. Not yet, she had to add miserably.

She’s not, Rebecca told him. But our father has spent the last year looking for a suitable husband for her. Aunt Melba said it won’t be long.

Reid’s heart fell further than he ever thought it could fall. He felt sick and empty, embarrassed and angry but most of all, he was hurt. He looked at the woman he knew he loved and took her hands in his.

If you don’t have to marry him… Reid summoned up every ounce of courage he had. Marry me.

Rebecca gasped and he saw more tears fall from Evellyn’s cheeks.

I can’t! she cried. She tore her hand away from his and ran for the manor.

With his heart on his sleeve, Reid watched her go.

She would if she could, Rebecca assured him, knowing her sister’s feelings. But it’s more complicated than you know.

"What else don’t I know?" he asked, his tone on edge. Her answer surprised him.

Our father rules this kingdom, she explained. She can only marry royalty.

~~~~~~~

She didn’t come down to the brook the next day, nor the next. Even though she didn’t come, Reid was there waiting for her. It was hard and with each passing moment, he grew more and more anxious. After a week, he thought he’d go crazy. After two, nothing was going to keep him from charging the manor. The next day she came.

Evellyn. He went to her. Holding her tight in his arms, he could feel the fast beat of her heart against his chest and the way her trembled in his arms. Throwing caution to the wind, he kissed her. He didn’t care. He was reckless and he was in love.

When their lips parted, her eyes were two sweet pools of sadness. He could tell she’d been crying.

Don’t cry.

My father has called for me.

Her words nearly stopped his heart. You’re leaving.., he whispered.

I came to say goodbye, she said solemnly.

Evellyn, he whispered, touching her face.

He saw her sister appear from the trees behind her. He took notice that their attire had changed. They were both wearing travelling clothes and their family crest hung from a gold chain around their necks. It was the glaive and a sparrow.

His thumb brushed the tears from her cheek.

Goodbye, she whispered.

She stepped away, but he held her hand tight. He shook his head in denial. This couldn’t be over. It had barely gotten started.

Eve, he said, softly.

She broke down, covering her mouth in dismay and hurried away from him. There was nothing he could do.

Evellyn, this isn’t the end! he called to her. "You can’t know I speak the truth but I do, I’ll see you again!"

Her face had been so sad and damned if it wasn’t going to be the last image he had of her. Before he knew it, Evellyn was gone.

Reid stood there for a very long time then turned on his heel and left.

They never saw each other again, that summer.

Chapter 3

Evellyn had been back at the castle in Lorien for several weeks and she was still completely miserable. She had fallen in love and all she could do was remember him. She missed him terribly. Getting over him was proving impossible. She should have been elated to be back in the kingdom of her birth and with her family, yet her despair continued. Nothing mattered to Evellyn but Reid and she had lost him.

Her family, of course, noticed the change in her. Their sweet girl didn’t do any of the activities she had previously loved doing. She didn’t ride her horses, didn’t sing, hardly ate and rarely slept. Her mother, the queen, asked Rebecca what was wrong. Her sister kept her secret. She simply cared for Evellyn like she was the younger sister and hoped one day she would be happy again.

Finally, on the eve of her mother’s birthday, nearly two months after returning from Shrieve, Evellyn ventured out of the castle. It was autumn now and the leaves were changing colors. There was to be a ball that evening in honor of her mother’s birthday and the town was celebrating. It would be Evellyn’s very first ball and in all the years of her longing to attend one, was nothing to her if she couldn’t attend with Reid. For her, it was just another day.

Outside, she walked along, staring at nothing in particular. Her thoughts far away. When she came to the balcony that overlooked the arena, she paused to glance down.

Eve.

It was her sister’s voice, but she had no idea where it was coming from. Rebecca?

A hand shot out from a nearby hedge and Evellyn suddenly found herself sandwiched between her sister and an enormous marble statue.

What are you doing back here? Evellyn sputtered, pulling a sprig from her mouth.

Look–

"I was looking…why are you hiding?"

Just look! Rebecca coaxed.

Evellyn stared into her sister’s hazel eyes that were dark green and bright with mischief.

Fine.

In the courtyard below were several knights pitting their strengths against each other. Her sister may have been excited to see them, but Evellyn was not. She knew most of them were not there to celebrate her mother’s birthday. They were there for her and it made her feel like the prize pig on parade to the butchers.

Rebecca… She sighed. She was about to depart their hiding place when her sister grabbed her arm.

There’s David.

Evellyn watched David, their brother, giving instruction to the men. His wavy blond hair shone white in the sun and the golden rays glinted off the silver royal crest that was sewn to his short blue tunic. He was very good with the sword and they watched as he lunged and parried with an easy smile.

He’s gotten so tall, she said. She remembered as siblings they had always argued. He’d even chased her around the castle once with a dead mouse and now look at him, so handsome and grown up.

There’s Arthur, Evellyn pointed to their cousin. Art was their first cousin and a familiar face from their past. They used to play tag as children in the garden.

And there’s the captain of the guard, her sister said.

He’s hardly changed at all, Evellyn replied.

He was older perhaps late forties with short brown hair and a stoic expression. His face was the type that wouldn’t change until his very soul had left his body.

And there’s Ty, Rebecca said, casting a sidelong glance at her sister.

He was probably the reason we’re in here hiding, she thought, annoyed.

This was the man her parents wanted her to marry. Prince Terrence II, nicknamed Ty. He was three years older than herself and handsome, muscular with curly, brown hair and soulful brown eyes.

They had known each other all their lives and she had half-heartedly agreed to a courtship. Unfortunately, the feelings she’d hoped would be there weren’t, at least, not for her. Evellyn thought of Ty more of a good friend.

She was courting…so much of this was new to her. Evellyn had left the castle a girl and returned a young woman expected to marry. Leaving the House of Pherson had been the first step along a road she was not prepared to follow.

Come on, Evellyn said.

Rebecca was disappointed. She had hoped her unusual show of spontaneity would snap her sister out of it. She about to give her a good tongue lashing when she saw her sister’s slow smile. She was delighted when Evellyn picked up her skirts and darted into the gardens.

You can’t catch me! she called over her shoulder. Rebecca gave chase.

Evellyn dashed through the labyrinth of hedges letting her sister catch up only to race off ahead of her. It felt good to run again. To feel the burn in her calves. For a moment, she felt like her old self before she had met Reid.

Evellyn rounded the corner and really started to stretch out her legs when she ran straight into her mother hosting brunch with various ladies of the court. Crashing in from behind, Rebecca nearly knocked her down.

Gotcha! she giggled uproariously until she saw the women at the table. "Mother."

Girls, Emelia said, giving them an even look. I’m glad to see you outside, Evellyn. Join us.

Emelia was a slender woman with auburn hair wound into a bun and soulful blue eyes. Her eyes weren’t what they once were and she often had to wear a pair of gold spectacles she wore around her neck.

It’s not a request, she said, firmly.

Emelia knew her oldest daughter well enough to know she was probably already thinking up excuses. They had no choice but to comply when she extended an arm for them to take a seat. Emelia laid down the law with her family and her beautiful daughters were her pride and joy.

The October weather had turned chilly yet the queen enjoyed basking in the autumn sun. As the servants made room for the girls, Emelia tucked the warm blanket under her legs and poured herself another cup of tea. She winked at Princess Marian who was seated beside her.

Marian was Douglas’ wife, the girls’ oldest brother and the crown prince to their father’s kingdom. She had a tall, willowy figure and long blond hair she wore loose. She was dressed in a dark blue day dress that complimented her fair complexion.

Marian knew the sisters would have preferred the tedious task of getting ready for the pain rather than listen to courtly gossip. She hid a smile when she saw the girls exchange defeated looks.

Marian. The queen turned to her daughter-in-law. How are you two fairing?

Very well, your highness, Marian smiled, shyly. I think our little city will boost quite a profit this year.

Douglas and Marian lived in Collumton, a providence to the east of Lorien. Their father had insisted his oldest son govern the lands when they were first wed nearly three years ago.

Evellyn turned the chatter out as the gossip continued. She sipped her tea, buttered a sweet roll and took a big bite. When she looked up, all eyes were on her.

Mm? she asked, her mouth full. She heard her sister giggle and Evellyn stifled the urge to elbow her.

How is the courtship going between you and Prince Terrance? her mother asked, putting her on the spot.

Evellyn felt her cheeks start to burn and she tried hard not to fidget or roll her eyes. Both would be deemed disrespectful by her mother. She swallowed her food and politely wiped her mouth.

It’s…he’s… She didn’t know what else to say.

Marien felt sorry for her and decided to help her out. He’s escorting you to the ball tonight, isn’t he? she asked.

Evellyn smiled gratefully at her. Yes, he is.

He looks so much like his father, Aunt Melba’s voice rang out. She had been listening intently to the conversation while she embroidered. With mention of King Terrence, she immediately put down her needle and clucked her tongue with envy. So handsome.

I heard King Terrence has men sailing for the new country in hopes of finding gold, Melba told them impishly. I would love to go to the new country.

Evellyn and Rebecca smiled at each other. They both knew how innocent and childlike their great-aunt was.

Aunt Melba, you don’t know what you’re saying, Emelia chuckled at her outlandish remark. It could be horribly dangerous.

That’s the adventure, my dear, the older woman laughed and the women around the table joined her.

Feeling more relaxed, Evellyn said, I saw him this afternoon.

Melba widened her eyes in wonder. King Terrence?

"Prince Ty, Evellyn replied. He was in the courtyard."

Congratulations, your highness, one of the ladies at the table said.

Another gave her a nod of approval.

You’ll be wed within the year, another commented.

She didn’t want to be wed, not to Ty. Evellyn’s troubled gaze went to her sister. Rebecca felt sorry for her.

Your highness, a voice interrupted the group. It was Evellyn’s lady-in-waiting, Juliana, and she sagged in relief. It’s time for the girls to prepare for the ball.

Chapter 4

Bryon Eppston was the advisor to the king although he spent the majority of his time preparing and reviewing the royal correspondence. Now that Evellyn and Rebecca were back, he was once again dedicated them, as he had been when they were children. Epps, as the family called him, was a long-time friend of the family and he loved doting on the girls.

Epps was petite with green eyes and fluffy, white hair that never seemed to lie down. It stuck upward and outward and shimmied like an Ostrich feather. He hurried through his daily tasks, however as the day progressed, it seemed one thing after another needed his attention. When he was at last free, he felt like a schoolboy headed to recess. He hurried to their rooms.

Epps had a secret talent for acquiring what could not be acquired and often it was new and fabulous dresses for the girls. Gowns were his specialty and he’d found two of the most spectacular and couldn’t wait to see how they liked it.

He knocked on Rebecca’s door and happily tapped his foot while he waited for the servant to answer. There was no better rejuvenation after a long, hard day than to hear the sisters’ gabber away. When the door opened, he found her twirling in front of the mirror.

Epps, I love it! she exclaimed.

He found himself enmeshed in folds of enchanting mauve as she hugged him. You look splendid, my dear. The color suits you.

Pleased, he tucked his hands into his long robes and was about to take a seat when her next words stopped him short.

I have to go, she said, giving his white hair a tussle. I love it, thank you!

She was out the door and gone. Epps continued to the next room and knocked on the door. Lady Juliana let him in.

Evellyn’s face lit up when she saw him. Epps, where have you been?

My day has been hectic, he replied, giving his head a tired scratch and inadvertently musing it up.

She covered a smile, loving the older man dearly, especially his fuzzy, white hair that never seemed to lie down. Stop, you’re making it worse.

Evellyn smoothed his hair down with her hands. When their eyes met, she stopped moving. She’d never noticed how particularly green his eyes were…emerald-green, just like Reid’s.

What’s wrong? he asked, gazing up into her face.

Epps was wearing black and it must be making his eyes stand out a more than usual. After a second look, they were nothing like Reid’s. Must be wishful thinking. Nothing, she told him.

She stood back and smoothed her dress down over her narrow hips. Well, what do you think? she asked him.

Evellyn was draped in the deepest amethyst and a vision if he’d ever seen one. My dear, you are stunning. It will be hard for anyone to take their eyes off you tonight.

I think you’re biased, she told him, pleased with the compliment.

Maybe, he chuckled. At last, he was able to take a break and sat on the settee that was positioned by the hearth. The fire felt good on his old bones. Epps watched while Evellyn sat and Juliana fix a small crown atop her head.

Evellyn watched him in the mirror. He had been something of a wizard…or so she thought. When she was sick, somehow a nose-licking puppy would appear to cheer her up. Or if she was feeling down, he’d pretend to conjure a rainbow in the sky just for her. Evellyn knew it wasn’t real magic, but the fact that he pretended it was endeared him to her.

You can still do it, she told him.

Do what?

Still find the most amazing dresses, she said. Where do you get them?

I’ll never tell, he winked at her, feeling the weariness of his day ebb away.

When Epps looked at her, he still saw a little girl with the most unbelievable brown eyes and a secret smile that announced she was up to mischief. Today he saw something different. In fact, ever since her return from Shrieve, Evellyn just hadn’t been the girl he remembered.

When Evellyn was done getting ready, she took a moment to sit with him. Epps had been her best friend when she was little and she had missed talking with him over the years.

Epps, why did you never marry?

Taken off-guard, he frowned. What?

You know my parents are arranging my marriage, she said.

I see. Epps relaxed a bit. Questions regarding his love life was not something he expected to be talking about…ever. I’m not so sure I’m the best one to be answering your questions.

Try, she told him. When speaking of love…should one follow their head or their heart?

That was a tough question. He gave himself a second to determine the best answer. I would follow my heart.

What a hypocrite I am. The recrimination rang in his ears, however after all these years, he realized he was telling her the truth. He patted her hand affectionately. Your heart will always know the way.

It seemed that wasn’t the answer she’d been hoping for.

Aren’t you supposed to give me some long lecture on my duties to the crown or where my path is heading? she asked.

Eve, I’m not your father, he told her with love. "You’ve always been your own person on a journey of discovery. Even as a child you’d see two paths through the forest and you’d take the one that was hardly visible. You didn’t know what was around the corner, you weren’t happy not knowing.

You have never been afraid and you still aren’t. I think it’s just been a while since you’ve seen a path you’d be interested in taking. Believe me, he said, taking her hand, when that changes…you’ll be ready."

That gives me comfort.

It’s time to go, Juliana announced.

Evellyn squeezed his hand and stood up. Thank you, Epps, she said, appearing to have made a decision.

Anytime.

With a blown kiss, she was gone.

He sat by the fire a moment longer. It occurred to him that he would never advise either girl to take a different path. For all paths when walked in faith and love would eventually find their way.

How he loved Evellyn and Rebecca. He couldn’t have loved them both more if they were his own daughters, had he had any. He did not. Talk of love had stirred up ancient memories.

Long ago, Epps had chosen to follow his head instead of his heart. At the time, he thought taking a stand in what he believed in was a more virtuous pursuit than the endeavors of love. He may have been right except he had lost the only woman he had ever loved.

After many long years, he was miles from home, and still ached for the love he had lost.

~~~~~~~

The next morning, Evellyn lingered in bed thinking of the night’s events.

Her mother’s birthday ball had been a resounding success. There had been over three hundred guests in attendance and she had danced well into the wee hours of the morning. She had no shortage of dance partners. She wished with all her heart it had been Reid, but her partner through most of the evening had been Prince Ty.

He’d been charming and attentive, always listening to her and smiling. After talking to Epps, she had decided to go into the courtship with an open mind. It was the least she owed her parents. She had lost Reid forever. If she married Ty, perhaps they could build on their friendship. Perhaps it would become something more. Evellyn heard the chamber door open. It was Juliana.

As a member of the upper class it was customary for eligible young women to spend a year or two at the castle learning proper etiquette from the royal family. They were known as ladies-in-waiting and they assisted their mistresses in all things from bathing and dressing to acting as chaperones.

Lady Juliana came from Dulverton, a township to the south of Lorien. She had hair the color daffodils, hazel eyes, and perhaps the skinniest girl Evellyn had ever seen. They had become fast friends when she had returned from Shrieve, but she never told her about Reid. She never told anyone. He was one secret her heart wanted to keep for itself.

Are you awake? Juliana asked.

No.

She heard Juliana open the tapestries and knew the sunlight was filling up the room.

Did you have fun last night?

Evellyn made some noncommittal sound from under the covers.

I saw you dancing, she said. He seems very nice.

Evellyn finally pushed the covers back. He is, she sighed, sadly.

Juliana didn’t know why she didn’t seem happier about it. You’re going riding this morning, she reminded her. She knew it would brighten her spirit.

Oh, yes, Evellyn replied, suddenly excited.

She absolutely adored horses. When she was younger, if her parents had allowed it, she would have slept in the barn. She spent every waking minute in the stables. She knew everything about horses; caring for them, feeding them, grooming them, and of course, riding them.

She especially loved the mares when they were round with unborn foals; spirited mothers with unbridled babies. She exercised them as much as possible keeping them strong and ready for birth. Evellyn was present every spring and every fall for the birth of the little ones.

She loved to touch their soft little mouths and their downy coats fresh from their mother’s tongue. She could spend all day watching them frolic with each other, their little ears pricked up with curiosity at anything new that happened in their corral.

She quickly got dressed and they walked