A Hidden Queen

Chapter 71

Charlie scratches the back of his head. Alex's harsh words rang in his ears. And with Josephine's actions this night it fed his concerns, making his mind race with thoughts that could not be dismissed. He had no reason to doubt her love for him, however, was that love second best merely because she knew she could not stay with Pierre? Damn Alex and his big mouth. Charlie grouses, knowing he would not be questioning himself if it wasn't for him.

Charlie's body tenses with the urge to run and question Josephine right this instant. However, he had orders from his captain and must first tend to his chards. He glides through the privacy sheets, holding one to the side as the two men step in-front of him before gesturing for them to have a seat on an empty cot.

"Lafayette!" Charlie calls, placing his hands on his hips. "I have two new test subjects for ye. Better come out before they start squirming."

Charlie grins broadly as his ears fill with grunting curses and muffled French. The older doctor squeezes his hefty body through the door, gazing at him over the rim of his rounded spectacles.

"I'd rather you not terrify my patients before I even have the moment to help them, Mr. Austin."

"Sorry doc; I simply couldn't resist." Charlie teases, ruffling Adean's hair. "Where's Joe?"

"That insufferable woman is in her cabin."

"Insufferable? Now, why would you wound her with such a strong word?"

"I doubt that would wound the stubborn brat. Despite my insisting, that woman refuses to stay here in my sick birth so that I may keep an eye on her condition."

"Can you much blame her doc? She's been caged up for days, maybe she just wants a little freedom." Charlie shrugs, earning a hum from Lafayette. "Besides, she won't be alone for long with the way the captain is fussing over her."

"I have half a mind to know he's not the only one showing such affections Mr. Austin. Now, if you will stop harassing myself and my patients and take your leave." Lafayette grouses while trailing off.

"Yes, my lord."

Charlie bows mockingly, chuckling as the older man takes a halfhearted swing at him. He slowly backs away from the threesome, keeping the disgruntled doctor in front of him. Once out of sight, Charlie makes his way to Josephine's cabin, rasping on the heavy wooden door.

He squeezes himself through a narrow opening upon hearing the invitation to enter. The cabin was spacious. The bed was built into the wall and what little shelving space she had was littered with books and drawing utensils. Joe sat at the foot of her bed, digging through her chest. She glances up, staring at his reflection in the mirror hanging on the wall. She smiles weakly, turning her head to fully look at him.

"Hey."

"Hey, yourself." Charlie parrots, coming closer. "I thought you were supposed to be resting?"

Joe snorts, "Did Lafayette send you to harass me? Let that old maiden know that I am resting just not in the way he sees fit."

"Well, the doctor does have his ways. However, I do not think he is misguided. You have been through enough to warrant such a reprieve."

"I know and I will. I promise, I just." Joe sighs, running her fingers through her long hair. "Charlie I just have too much on my mind to lay still and rest peacefully."

Charlie hums in understanding, staring at Joe. Her face held such grief, sorrow, even regret. He sighs heavily as Alex's words ate at him, digging at his very heart. He places his hand on hers, crouching in front of her. He remains quiet, rubbing his thumb across her wrapped knuckles.