Hiding Katherine by GG Shalton (reading women .txt) 📗

The woman smiled and hugged Katherine. “Welcome to our home. I could not be happier. We thought Ian was married to his work and would never take a wife. You are lovelier than I imagined. We must get you settled.”

Katherine blushed and curtsied. “Thank you, my lady.”

“She is to stay in my tower. I want her close by, so I can protect her. She can stay in one of my extra chambers until we are married.”

His mother turned to protest, but her voice caught in her throat looking back at her son’s sulking expression.

Jakub disputed, “Ian, please. It’s not proper. Katherine is well-bred, and what does it harm her to stay in a chamber in the family keep near Mother? She will only spoil the poor girl.”

Ian’s expression was somber at being challenged by his brother. “We will be married within a fortnight. She will stay with me.”

Katherine was a little embarrassed by his sharp tone with his family. None looked shocked or surprised by the finality of his request. Ian was never one to mince words or tolerate questioning.

An older woman stepped up to protest. “Please Ian, reconsider.” She looked at Katherine and smiled. “I am Janice, Ian’s grandmother.”

Katherine squeezed Ian’s hand and looked up at him, pleading with her eyes. He looked at her and his mood and stance melted away. Taking a deep breath, he lifted her hand up and kissed it. “Very well. If my future bride agrees to stay with Mother until we are married, let it be.” The group looked at each other seemingly shocked at this side of Ian. His gentleness with his intended was evident.

He stepped toward Katherine and took her arm. “We are tired and wish to retire for the evening.”

His mother straightened her shoulders. “As you wish. I sent a maid an hour ago to air out your room and provide clean linens. I will have them prepare a chamber for Katherine as well.”

She motioned for Katherine, and she followed her into the keep. Katherine was amazed at the size and furnishings. Ian’s family was wealthier than she realized. Feeling a bit self-conscious, she remained quiet taking in her surroundings. Several servants addressed Ian’s mother and her demeanor was very pleasant.

“You may use the chamber a few doors down from mine. It’s not occupied now and has a bathtub inside of it. I will ask the servants to bring you some water.”

Katherine thought a bath would be wonderful. “Thank you, my lady. A bath would be most welcomed.”

They reached her chamber and his mother opened the door. Stepping inside, Katherine was impressed with the tapestries and blue and gold coverings on the bed. Carpets and wood carved furniture decorated the room. “This is lovely.”

“I am glad you like it. I must confess, I have so many questions that I wish to ask you, but of course, do not wish to overwhelm you.” She twisted her hands in the folds of her skirt. “It’s just that Ian barely comes home. He left to foster when he was very young and was never quite the same when he returned.”

She walked around the room seemingly wanting to share more with her soon to be daughter-in-law. She ran her finger along the table deep in thought. “He looks almost happy.” Snickering, she quickly covered her mouth with obvious affection for her son.

“We are very happy,” Katherine spoke gently trying to reassure her.

“We were all in shock when he smiled earlier. You see, when Ian would return on occasion growing up, with each visit he seemed to grow more distant. His mind was only on the next battle. His brothers complained that he was closer to his men than his own family.” Taking a deep breath, she looked out the window. “People feared him. Our clan members said he was without mercy in combat. As a mother, I have often wanted to coddle him, but he would never let me. It’s like he skipped his childhood and became a mercenary from birth.”

She shook her head. “Forgive me. You must think I am horrible for saying such a thing about my own child. It’s just that, after meeting you, I am a bit overwhelmed. You are so beautiful. I never thought he would… I am just so happy.”

“It’s quite all right, my lady. I can assure you that Ian is not without mercy. He treats me with respect and is very gentle.”

“Jakub said he was even teasing you before you parted ways. His seriousness with all situations was always a concern for us. It’s nice to see this side of him.”

Katherine smiled. “He is actually very funny.” His mother wiped a tear away and tilted her head giving her full attention to Katherine. “I know what people say about him. But they don’t know him is all I can say. He is my husband and I love him very much.”

His mother looked at her confused. “You mean—to be your husband? Your fiancé?”

Katherine’s heart beat faster at the blunder. She quickly corrected herself. “Yes, of course. We are to be married.”

“I will send a tray of food up as well. Please enjoy your bath and rest. I will meet you for breakfast and we can start planning your wedding. Ian has not given us much time.”

Katherine smiled with gratefulness. “Thank you.”

Chapter 15

Katherine tossed and turned all night trying to get comfortable. She missed Ian, so she placed a pillow beside her to take up some of the space on the bed. This was a strange castle. The family lived in different towers depending on their birth order. Most stayed at home rather than taking positions with other clans. Except for Ian. Why did he choose a mercenary life, hiring himself out for battle?

A soft knock on the door disturbed her thoughts. Getting out of the bed, she slowly walked to the door carefully opening it. “Are you mad? Your mother is down the hall.”

“Shh… Then you better be quiet.”