Love Inspired Historical July 2015 Box Set: The Marriage Agreement\Cowgirl for Keeps\The Lawman's Redemption\Captive on the High Seas (91 page)

Chapter Twenty-Five

D
avid had called for the anchors to be dropped shortly after he'd shown her the ships. Ada had waited, her gaze focused on the shapes propelling toward them for what seemed like hours. Her fingers ached from squeezing the railing for so long. Her lips were numb from the constant prayer uttered in silence over Nicolaus.

She had hoped for peace to overcome her. Instead, the more distinct the multitude of ships became, the more her heart unsettled. Did one of those ships belong to Nicolaus? Had he come to sacrifice himself in order to gain her freedom?

A tear slipped from her eye and was quickly dried by the warm breeze. Freedom would mean nothing without Nicolaus in her life. She almost understood how it was her mother could have loved her father, except her father had not been kind, not like Nicolaus had been. But Ada knew now that she could have given her heart completely to Nicolaus if he offered her marriage. However, if her father tried to force Nicolaus into an agreement, she would never know if he returned her love, and that was unacceptable. She couldn't suffer the way her mother had, to love a man who did not love her. She wasn't strong enough.

“I do not see Nicolaus.”

Ada blinked to clear her thoughts, and then glanced at David, who had come to stand beside her. “What is it you said?”

“Nicolaus, he has yet to show himself.”

Ada's heart dropped to her stomach. Had Nicolaus decided to abandon her? Her gaze roamed over each of the boats in hopes of seeing him, and yet of not seeing him. They were close enough that she could make out the helmsman and the captains standing at their posts as well as the rowers, but she could not discern who was who. They were still too far. “Perhaps you were wrong about how my master felt about me.”

Her heart sank a little further at the possible truth.

David scratched his beard. “Perhaps. I guess we will see.”

“What will you do if he has not come?” she asked even though she feared his answer.

“I will have no choice but to keep you until he has a change of heart. Of course, by then he may no longer want you.”

Ada's spine stiffened at his threat. However, it was not out of fear, not from this man; he was nothing more than a coward hiding behind cruelty. She straightened her arms. Arching her back, she lifted her face toward the heavens and smiled as the sun warmed her skin. The peace she had sought earlier finally settled over her. Something deep within her heart told her Nicolaus had not abandoned her. He had not left her to such a fate when she was nothing more than a stranger to him, and he would not do so now.

“Are you mad? Why are you smiling?”

Laughter filled her but she dared not allow it to take root. “I have faith that Almighty God will rescue me.”

She just had to find a way to keep Nicolaus from sacrificing his life for hers.

* * *

“Galen, is that you?”

A whisper of movement scooted farther away.

“Ay, Captain.” Galen's voice trembled. “It is me. I am sorry I disobeyed you, but Chloe is taking care of my siblings, and I wanted to help Ada.”

Nicolaus almost laughed aloud. He must consider retiring as captain. No one had ever dared to defy his commands until he'd brought Ada aboard his ship, and now it seemed as if everyone chose to do so, even this little mite of a child. However, he could not be more grateful than he was at the moment. And he owed it to the Almighty God for His divine providence.

“You would not happen to have a blade with you, do you?”

“Of course, Captain. How else would I fight?”

His own daggers pressed against his hips. If only he had thought to use them against his men when they took over his ship. Of course, that was something he would never do unless they truly meant him harm. Besides, his father had ordered their actions. “You are wise for one so young.” And a little daring for a child of his age. Nicolaus would have to take care and teach him well before he grew into a young man. “Now, will you cut me loose?”

The rhythm of his rowers slowed, and Nicolaus knew they must be close to David's ship. Galen had yet to move. “Galen? Will you cut me loose?”

The child's face appeared from out of the shadows. The boy worried his lip. “Are you going to punish me for disobeying you?”

The corners of his mouth slid upward. “I should. My commands are meant to keep you safe from harm. The next time you disobey me, you will be banished to your chambers for a time. Is that understood?”

“Yes, Captain.” Galen crawled forward, and then moved behind Nicolaus. His blade sawed through the ropes binding Nicolaus's hands.

A muffled shout from Xandros came from above, followed by one from his helmsman. The sound of the oars halted. The boat bobbed with the waves. Nicolaus pulled his hands apart, severing the last threads of the rope. Rising, he patted Galen on the head. “My thanks. Now, stay here until I call for you. I would not wish to be distracted by you while I'm trying to rescue Ada.”

The boy's eyes turned sad. His shoulders slumped. Nicolaus understood the need to help. Sitting here with his hands bound, he'd felt helpless, but it had also given him time to think about his original plan. He would trade positions with her if he must. However, he'd prefer to save her without giving up his life so he could spend the rest of his life loving her.

Nicolaus crouched in front of the boy. “I have an important document.” Nicolaus reached his hand between the folds of his tunic and pulled out a piece of the map he'd stolen back from David. “Are you willing to keep it safe? Do not tell anyone you have it.”

Galen's eyes lifted to the scrap of leather. His face shone with excitement as he nodded.

“Very well.” Nicolaus handed him the map and rose. “You stay here. Hide if you must. I will fetch you when Ada has been returned to us.”

* * *

Several vessels surrounded them. Archers crowded onto the roofs with bows in their hands. Her brother stood at the commander's post of one. Jasen stood on another, his arms crossed over his chest. She could not say how she knew the perfect image was not Nicolaus, other than his gaze did not warm her or melt her knees. And perhaps it was because Jasen did not command the boat she'd become accustomed to over the days of sailing the Great Sea. Instead, that particular boat was captained by Xandros, Nicolaus's second-in-command. Her father and Nicolaus's stood beside Xandros.

Her father moved in front of Xandros. His white hair ruffled in the wind. “David of Delos, I completed my business with you several days ago. Have you found me guilty of theft to steal my daughter from me?”

Ada swung her gaze to David, who seemed to pale beneath her father's frightening stare. “Forgive me, Manus. However, this woman was found roaming freely along the wharf. Fair for anyone to take captive.” David pulled her close. His hand roamed over her hair. “A treasure such as this should be locked away, should it not?”

Her father's lip twitched. “That it should. However, I fear my daughter disobeyed orders to stay in her chambers and went in search for a wayward waif. Her affection for those less fortunate often causes her to be misguided.”

Ada flinched. She knew her father held no compassion for those beneath him, she'd seen the evidence of it when her mother died, but hearing the truth struck her heart.

“I would ask that you release her as she is not for sale.”

“Rumor has it she's already been sold. My apologies, Manus, but I cannot release her until my terms are met.” David shifted, pulling Ada with him. “Jasen, I've no doubt your brother is hiding among all these ships. It surprises me he has chosen to hide his face like a coward. But then, only cowards would sneak into a man's house while he slept, torture him and steal from him.”

Jasen narrowed his eyes, and Ada thought for a moment he might in truth be Nicolaus. “My brother is of no concern to you.”

“Ah, but he is as I will not release this woman until I have him in my possession.”

“She no longer belongs to Nicolaus. Therefore you have no means to bargain with.”

Ada pulled her brows together in confusion. She wanted to stomp her foot and shout that she belonged to no man, but that was not the truth. She just did not know whom she belonged to; her father, Jasen, Nicolaus...the man holding her captive by her hair.

“I'm afraid I do. My sources have informed me this woman does belong to Nicolaus. Perhaps, not as his slave, but from all I hear she owns his heart. A man in love will do anything to protect his woman, am I not right, Nicolaus?”

David twisted toward the boat holding her father and Xandros. Nicolaus stood near the edge, his fingers white from the grip on the rail. She closed her eyes against the tears forming. Although more beautiful than all she'd seen thus far, she had not hoped to see him. Had hoped he would stay far from this man who had caused Nicolaus much torment.

“What is it you would have me do, David? You are surrounded with over a hundred arrows aimed at you.”

The laugh tumbling from David caused shivers to race down her back. He jerked her tight against his chest. “Your orders would see her killed.”

Nicolaus's chest rose, and then he nodded. “In that, you are correct.”

“I would have the map you stole from me.”

Nicolaus grimaced. “A map rightfully belonging to me.”

David wrapped his arm around Ada's neck. “Swim over and I will release her.”

Nicolaus began to undo the clasp holding his tunic together at his shoulder.

“No!” She elbowed David in the stomach and then stomped on his foot. He released his hold. David's helmsman jumped from his seat and swung his fist out to grab her just as an arrow hissed through the air. He stumbled backward.

“I will kill you.” David snatched the back of her tunic, but quickly released her with a bellow.

She glanced over her shoulder to see an arrow piercing his shoulder. She climbed onto the top rail and jumped. Water covered her head. She swept her arms downward and kicked her feet. She broke the surface, gasping for air.

“Grab her.”

She turned around. Two of David's men had jumped into the water after her. She kicked her feet, catching one in the chest. The other man grabbed her foot and yanked her toward him. An arrow pierced his chest and she kicked free from his hold. Thick arms grabbed hold of her. She swung around, her hand connecting with a solid jaw.

“Ada, it is me,” Nicolaus shouted over the waves lapping against her ears. “You are safe.”

Her body lost all of its tension. She wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him. “I was scared he would capture you. I could not stand the thought of him tormenting you again.”

The warmth of Nicolaus's lips pressed against her brow. “Nor I you, my love.”

She pulled back and gazed into his eyes. “You love me?”

“Ay.” He pressed his head against hers. His breaths warmed her lips. Their hearts pounded together. “I would have you be my wife if you are willing.”

“What of Desma?”

“Jasen assures me that she is well.”

“Oh, Nicolaus of Andros, that is good to hear.” She knotted her fingers in his hair. “I love you, Nicolaus, and I am willing,” she whispered as she pulled his mouth down to hers. Their lips melded for several long seconds, until the roar of her brother's laughter rained down upon them.

Epilogue

N
icolaus leaned his shoulder against the tree and watched his bride as she danced in circles with Galen and Edith. Haemon and Argos stood near the roasting pit, waiting for the meat to finish cooking. Their smiles said they were not disappointed with the wedding feast his mother had promised them.

“She looks happy,” Asher said.

“She does,” Nicolaus said. “I only wished she would have allowed your father to stay and witness the wedding.”

Asher rolled his shoulders. “What my father did to our sisters was unthinkable, but I stood by and allowed it to happen. Of course, we were angry over what they did to Ada and thought the punishment fair.”

“I do not blame you.” Jasen approached them with cups in his hands. “However, their actions brought my brother a bride. Perhaps, now Mother will quit trying to marry me off.”

Nicolaus laughed. “Unlikely. The quicker she sees all of her sons married the sooner she can fill her house with grandchildren.”

“She has Edith, Galen and the babe.” Jasen sipped from his cup. “What of the babe? You have yet to name him.”

“Agapios.”

Jasen's eyebrows knitted together. “Love. The boy will suffer teasing from his playmates.”

“I'm certain she'll relent and allow us to call him by another name, but for now it stands.” Nicolaus glanced at Asher. “What of your sisters? Surely your father does not intend to leave them in slavery. Although they treated Ada with contempt, I know my bride would not wish them to suffer and will never be content until she knows they are safe.”

“I intend to leave for Delos on the morrow. Perhaps, David's injuries will keep him in his home and away from the traders. However, I do not know the island and I was never able to conquer the language as Ada has. I fear I'll fail before I begin.”

“If you wait a day, I will go with you.”

“No.”

“No.”

Nicolaus glanced at both men. “It is important to Ada.”

“You have a bride to tend to.” Jasen gazed off toward the sea. “I would not have you face David again so soon. I will go. It is the least I owe you after what my actions have caused you.”

“You owe me nothing, brother. I am content with the outcome.” Knowing his sister was safe was enough. Ada giggled, drawing his attention. His arms ached with the need to hold her. “I only wish you would ease our parents' minds.”

“This is a conversation I should not hear.” Asher clapped his hand onto Nicolaus's shoulder. “I am glad to call you brother. I hope to one day return.” The man's eyes darted toward Chloe, the wet nurse, with longing and Nicolaus wondered if there was an attraction between them.

“Hold a moment, Asher. I would discuss our plans for the morrow.” Jasen nodded toward Ada. “Go to your bride, brother. Keep her close lest another man seeks to steal her from you, and love her well.”

Loving her was easy. He only prayed he was worthy of her love.

“That I will do, brother.” Nicolaus handed his cup to his brother. “Asher, may all go well with your travels. I hope to hear good news from you soon.”

Nicolaus pushed away from the tree and strode toward Ada and the children. She threw her head back and laughed at something Galen had said. He was content with his new family, especially with Ada at his side. Her face radiated with such joy and by the smiles of all the people around the terrace he'd say her laughter was infectious.

“Ada.” He grabbed hold of her hand. He itched to sweep her into his arms and carry her away from the festivities. “Will you walk with me a moment?”

She stretched onto her toes and kissed his cheek. The softness of her lips pressed against his flesh weakened his knees. “Of course, Nicolaus. Where is it you'd like to walk?”

Away from here, from prying eyes so he could kiss his bride with all the passion thrumming through his blood. “Come and you will see.”

He guided her to a path behind his parents' home. For several long moments they walked in silence. The pulse of her palm beat against his, sending waves of delight to his heart. How had he become so fortunate as to have a bride such as her? They reached the stone stairs, and he gave in and swept her into his arms. Hers snaked around his neck as her head leaned against his shoulder. He carried her up the steps leading to the top of the mountain and reluctantly set her on her feet.

He kissed her forehead, her eyes and the tip of her nose before he sought out her lips. She melded against him, her body fitting perfectly against him as if God had made her just for him. Pulling away, he gazed into her eyes. “I love you, Ada, my heart.”

“And I you, Nicolaus.”

One corner of his mouth slid upward and he spun her around so she could see the magnificent beauty of his home. Their home. Her sharp inhale told him she agreed. He snaked his arms around her middle and pulled her against his chest. Her hands settled over his. “Are you truly happy, Ada?”

She tilted her head to look at him. “Of course, why do you ask?”

“I never officially freed you and...” Words clung to his tongue. The deed was done. They were married and he didn't think he could ever let her go, but he knew how much she did not want to become her mother.

She turned in his arms. One palm rested on his cheek, the other over his heart. “Nicolaus, I have no fear of suffering as my mother did. She loved my father without his love in return. I love you, and I have no doubt that you love me. That you will love me for the rest of our lives.”

He covered her hand on his cheek with his and then threaded their fingers together. He kissed the back of her hand. “That I will, Ada. That I will.”

Dropping her hand, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her tight. His lips captured hers. The squeal of the birds, the wind through the trees, the waves pushing against the shore below all disappeared. The only sound he was aware of was the beating of their hearts.

* * * * *