Love And Honour (Book 2)

Chapter XXXIII

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"Hunter, you called my son's name, why?" Lord Kier questions as he comes to his daughter's side. She studies his face, her gaze sharp.

"Yes, Hunter, why did you cause such a racket with my name?" Gavriel has now appeared and he scowls at Hunter, warning him with his gaze. Hunter smirks insolently at him. Gavriel marches forward and turns to his parent and sibling. "I can handle this."

"That is unlikely." Hunter drawls. "You hold no power in this respect." Gavriel's scowl deepens, etching deep crevices in his skin. "I have brought someone that you will wish to speak with. It concerns your family." Realisation filters through to Gavriel and his mind clears, anger melting away, retreating back into the dark corners of his heart.

Lord Kier looks down at his daughter who thoughtfully considers Hunter's words. "Lead the way Hunter." She tells him.

○ ○ ○

Logan and Hunter hang back as the three Ricells stand around Mia and hear the true story from her lips. She appears strong and confident but both know how terrifying it is for her to tell the truth. There could be serious consequences to her actions. Hunter knows that if they do react badly then he will get her out of there. He will not let her suffer for her act of revenge. She is coming clean now. That should be good enough for them.

"You are having my brother's child?" Zara asks quietly. She had taken Mia's hand during her explanation and pats it now in an act of comfort. Mia nods, tears now brimming in her eyes. Zara shoots a pointed look at her brother who hands over a handkerchief. Mia hurriedly wipes away the irritating drops. Zara licks her lips, pondering her next words.

"Gethin is innocent, sister." Gavriel quietly reminds her, as if she needs reminding. "He did not poison me which means he did not kill Jasiel. You can release him now."

"Your words are true?" Mia nods. "Thank you for you bravery. You may remain within our manor if you wish, your child will be well looked after." Some of Mia's colour drains away at Zara's words. Perceptive as always Zara pats her hand. "Or you may leave but please do write to inform me of how my niece, or nephew, is doing."

"Zara." Gavriel says her name and Zara looks at him with something akin to irritation.

"I heard you but it is not so simple. He still poisoned father." Zara speaks sharply. Lord Kier places his hand on her shoulder and she closes her eyes briefly, regaining her equilibrium. She opens them to her father's calm but serious face. He strokes his finger against her cheek.

"I can forgive him for such an act. It runs within our family, he did not intend to fatally harm me. It is time to free your brother and search for Jasiel's murderer once again." His gaze lifts and Hunter protectively moves in front of Logan, his mouth slightly open to remind Gavriel or their deal. He does not need to.

"We should find out who poisoned me father, which will lead us to his murderer. Logan and Hunter here were absent at that time. We should consider those we thought incapable of such actions." Gavriel persuades his father as his sister stands and goes to Logan's side. Her hand slips within his and she leans against him. Lord Kier takes in his son's words and his daughter's actions and agrees.

"Let us return then." Lord Kier speaks but both of his children know it is a command. Zara presses a light kiss to Logan's cheek before pulling away from him. He unwillingly lets her go. The three Ricells leave the humble home and Hunter sinks down onto the floor, his head falling back against the wall, letting out a long relieved sigh. Logan, seconds later, copies his action.

Mia glances down at her hands that shake in her lap and she places them on her rounded stomach. Slowly the shakes ease away and the fear dissipates. "I will take you home tomorrow." Hunter tells her softly. "It would be too much for you to return now."