A Mightnight Dance

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Lady Owen sent me home to my family that night. She promised to keep the expedition's return a secret for a few days. However, once the soldiers submitted their report, it was only a matter of time before she found out. What would I say to her when that happened? I didn't think I could face her now.

Even when the sun dimmed and I slept in my bed, sleep wouldn't take me. A warm breeze entered the window I left open for Belle. She hadn't visited in a few days. Perhaps she was out looking for her master.

I prayed she would find him soon. This couldn't be the only solution available for Delilah. The best would be for her brother to return. I had to bring him back, somehow.

I had to.

The next morning, I skipped breakfast and returned to Nightingale Manor. I rented a carriage as soon as I was able. Luckily, Raven & Co. catered to such early needs. The dark curtains almost drew me to sleep. I could barely see an inch in front of my face.

When I arrived, Mr. Timmons waited at the door.

"Lady Owen is in the office. She requested your presence as soon as you arrived."

"Did she already know I couldn't stay awake?"

Mr. Timmons bowed. "We are grateful for your return."

"You won't be able to keep me away."

"Allow me to escort you."

I twisted my hands together. "Has Delilah taken her meals?"

"Yes. She asked about you."

My throat closed. Perhaps I should have stayed.

"The young miss has drawn a few pictures for you. I shall retrieve them and get them ready for you."

"Thank you."

Outside the office, Mr. Timmons knocked and opened the door. Lady Owen sat on the couch while two gentlemen sat across from her. All three of them stood as I entered.

"This is Lady Stark," Lady Owen began. "Avaline, these are the soldiers who went with Lord Nightingale. They come to report."

I gestured to the couches. "Please sit."

The first soldier introduced himself as Lieutenant Bretman. He was a clean-shaven man with deep-set eyes and thick eyebrows. Both he and Corporal Taylor wore their dark blue military uniform.

"Thank you for your prompt report," Lady Owen said. "The journey must have been difficult."

"Captain Nightingale was clear with his instructions," LT. Bretman said. "We were to report as soon as we were able."

"So, what happened?" I asked.

This time, it was Corporal Taylor who replied. "It was I who saw the Hellios first."

He walked us through the events. It was exactly like Charles's version with a few more details. It wasn't like I didn't believe my brother, but the doubt had been there.

"Is there a way to return for Lord Nightingale?" I asked.

The LT. hesitated. "We weren't given orders for his retrieval. He was more concerned for the civilians."

My chin trembled. Of course, he would be. He had promised he'd take care of them. I turned away, rubbing my eye.

"What will it take to go back up the mountain?" I asked.

"The mayor would have to give his consent," he replied.

Lady Owen grabbed my hand. "Were any of the men injured?"