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

On the fourth day, she accepted breakfast from the maid. Alone in her room, she rubbed her stomach knowing that she had to guard her secret. Her baby would be born a bastard as no one would believe they were married. The shame made her sick. They should have told everyone they were already married. Who would believe her now?

Deanna walked into the chamber without knocking. “Oh, thank God, you’re awake. Everyone is so worried about you.”

Tears welled up in Katherine’s eyes. “I just don’t know how to live, Deanna. All my plans and future were with him. I loved him with all my heart.”

Deanna reached out and took her hand. “I know it’s rough now. But with time, you will feel better. I spoke to Dorian, and we would like you to come live with us. We were married when he returned from England. I didn’t get a chance to tell you.”

Katherine tried to smile halfheartedly. “Congratulations, my sister. He is a good man.”

Deanna nodded. “Yes, he is. But so was Ian. Forgive me for doubting him in the beginning. Dorian was very fond of him as well. His family has been so gracious, but they are not our family. You need to stay with me and Dorian. He will protect you.”

Katherine reached up and embraced her. “You are right, my sister. Just give me a few days to ready myself and say goodbye.”

“Of course. I will let Dorian know.”

Katherine stayed in bed for the rest of the day. Later that evening, she asked Marion if she could visit the tower where Ian lived. Marion agreed and accompanied her there. Katherine asked for a few moments alone in his bedchamber.

Looking around the room, she felt the pain rise in her chest. She could see some of his personal items laid on top of the table near the wardrobe. Reaching out, she ran her fingers across his comb. A piece of hair stuck to it and she didn’t want to part with it. She would ask Marion if she could have it. Sitting on his bed, she laid back wondering how many nights he slept here dreaming of his life. A tear fell down her cheek slowly. She didn’t have the energy to wipe it way.

She whispered, “Ian, if you can hear me. Please know how much I loved you. You made me very happy in the brief time we were together. I have great news that I wanted to share with you when you returned. You are going to be a father. Can you believe it? Our child grows inside me. I can’t wait to tell the baby about you. Oh, Ian. Please know that in my heart, no matter what happens, my heart will always belong to you.”

She wiped the tears and sat up. One last look around his bedchamber and she left the room. Marion was waiting for her below.

“Are you well?” Marion worriedly looked at her.

Katherine nodded. “Can I keep his comb?”

“Of course. You can live here—in his tower—if you wish. We would love to have you.”

Katherine looked down. “Your kindness to me will always warm my heart. But I can’t stay. It isn’t right. My sister has offered me a room in her home. We will leave in a couple of days. I will never forget your friendship.”

Marion shook her head. “You can’t leave Katherine. You are all I have left of Ian.”

A male voice interrupted their conversation, “Mother, Katherine is not Ian.”

The women turned to see Jakub in the doorway. Marion wrung her hands. “Forgive me. I am just… to lose you too would be a nightmare. Please excuse me. I just need to lay down.”

Katherine was left alone with Jakub. He walked over to her and rubbed her arm. “How are you?”

She took a deep breath looking down at Ian’s comb in her hand. “I took his comb. Your mother said it was okay.”

“Please keep it.” He took a step away and walked toward the windowsill.

“I will be leaving in couple of days to go live with my sister.” She tried to smile. “All of you have been so kind to me. Thank you.”

He stared at her for a moment seemingly hesitant to speak. “Katherine, will you come sit beside me? I wish to speak to you.”

Katherine nodded, taking a seat across from him on an opposite chair. “I know all of this is fresh in your mind. The rawness of Ian’s death. I wanted to wait a few weeks before speaking to you, but I fear I am unable to wait now that you are leaving.”

“What is your concern?” Katherine was confused by his meaning.

His somber expression was evident. “Frankly, I am concerned when your father and his men learn of Ian’s death, they will come for you.”

Katherine fidgeted with her hands. “I must be diligent. I will let Dorian know. Deanna said he will protect me.”

Jakub rubbed his lips together studying her face. “Dorian is a great man. But he couldn’t protect you before, and I am concerned you may await the same fate. They will know that is where you will be.”

Katherine put her head in her hand. “What am I to do?”

His tone softened. “I know this is sudden and a lot to take in. But I think you should stay here and let me and my brothers protect you.”

Katherine’s eyes snapped up, a little surprised by his offer. “I appreciate your suggestion. But I can’t stay here as I am not your relative. I would have to earn my keep and would not feel right having you support me.”

He reached over and squeezed her hand. “I know you loved Ian. Everyone could see it. My next proposition is only for your protection. But I think you should marry and soon. If you’re married, your father can’t touch you.”

“I couldn’t imagine marrying anyone else.”

He took a deep breath. “I knew you would feel that way. That is why I think you should marry someone who