Treasured

49)

I have updated a lot in the last few days, so make sure to read chapters 47 and 48 before delving into this one! Ty!

Branson's P.O.V.

It had been two days since the magistrate called Wren's Aunt to court, and still, there was no word on Wren. There had been no traces left, no evidence to point us in any direction. Eddie was going mad with worry, and none of us were any better.

Fletcher was sick to stomach when he heard that he had vanished, imagining the worst. Robin had cried for hours, clinging to June for his very sanity, and Sal had fallen into a profound depression. Cedar had flown into a rage, and refused to come out of his room until there was news.

Sir John had immediately gone to work trying to scrounge up any detail that might help us locate Wren, but so far nothing had turned into a useful lead. Nothing until an hour ago.

The whole house was in an uproar, as was to be expected. Apparently Wren's family had owned a home about four days journey away. Sir John had word that there had been some recent activity there, and that we should at least check it out.

Eddie of course would need help, but that didn't mean that he could take all of us, and he definitely didn't want to put anyone in danger. He was in a tough situation, but he eventually decided that June should stay and prepare everything for our return, and that Sal, Robin, and Cedar would remain. Cedar of course, was adamant that he should come, but Eddie pointed out that he had only just regained some of his former strength, and the journey would be taxing.

Fletcher and I, of course, were more than willing to come along, especially if we could rescue Wren and bring him home.

The investigation into Wren's family was intense, and we had no claim to his guardianship as yet, but Eddie had hired a lawyer who had told us that Wren didn't have to do anything but sign a notice and turn it into the judge, stating that he wanted his guardianship transferred to Eddie.

~

The weather was dry, and good for travel, and since the three of us were going horseback, we made good time. The carriage was coming as well, but we knew it would slow us down, so Eddie told the driver to follow at a reasonable pace so as not to hurt the animals.

The first night, Eddie had to reason with both Fletcher and I in order to rest. Fletcher and I wanted to continue on, but the horses were exhausted, and we were tired too. Eddie managed to secure a room for us, and we had a warm dinner at the Red Dragon Inn.

We were anxious, but after a hard day of riding, we slept rather well. The following three days expired in similar fashion, until we came upon Concord, which was just beyond Boston.

"Fletcher, secure us two rooms at the Inn just ahead, and then find a doctor," Eddie delegated. "Branson, you and I are going to the magistrate, and then to the address Johnny gave me. I've already sent a letter, so I imagine an inspector is ready to accompany us."

We set upon our separate ways, eager to bring Wren home. I guessed that Fletched was less than pleased to be sent on the errands, but we both knew  he was a better negotiator than I, and that I was better equipped to handle a volatile situation.

The magistrate had a warrant, and and inspector waiting for us, and then we set out. The house we arrived at seemed old and neglected, but the inspector didn't seem fazed, and calmly knocked on the door.

A servant answered, nervously glancing about and anxiously fiddling with his clothing.

"Is Mr. Richard Beckham in residence?" The Inspector inquired, dominance radiating off of him.