Said No to the Prince and Yes to the King novel Chapter 65

Chapter 65 Planning the Escape

Margaret’s brow furrowed. There was something distinctly off about the woman’s story.

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“Your village isn’t that large,” she reasoned. “Even the furthest reaches shouldn’t be impossible for searchers to find.”

Tears welled in the woman’s eyes. “I don’t know why. Perhaps the reeve is in league with them, so…” A sob escaped her. “Maybe there’s no escape for us. If the reeve is involved, we’d have to flee all the way beyond the village borders.”

“What makes you think the reeve is on their side?” Margaret pressed.

The woman’s expression turned mournful. “I remember the day before I was taken. I had been visiting with Carol from the village–her granddaughter and I are dear friends. I often took my meals at Carol’s cottage. That evening, after supper, I was struck from behind on the path home. When I came to my senses, drifting in and out of consciousness, I saw the reeve speaking with those men.”

“Carol?” Margaret seized on the name.

The woman gave a faint nod. “Yes. Do you know her, my lady? The girl beside me is Carol’s granddaughter. It’s a tragedy–Carol has no one else. And when I awoke, there the child was, right next to me. I don’t know how Carol will go on.”

As she spoke, she worked quietly at the cords binding the young girl.

“The drizzle outside continues. It will muffle our movements. The three of us might slip away unseen. Miss, we must stop talking. We need to flee, now.”

Carol’s granddaughter–a girl with wide, solemn eyes–listened intently, obeying without a sound.

The other women in the room, however, began to strain against their bonds. A few made deliberate noises, trying to attract attention.

The woman beside Margaret hushed them urgently. “Peace, everyone. We won’t abandon you. Once we’re free, we’ll return with help from the village.”

The commotion subsided slightly at her words.

Suddenly, a muffled thud sounded from beyond the door–like a body hitting the earthen floor.

Then, one by one, the few figures guarding the entrance slumped to the ground. It all happened with startling quietness, leaving the captives staring in disbelief.

Before anyone could react, a soft glow appeared in the doorway.

The women, long accustomed to darkness, squeezed their eyes shut against the sudden light.

Margaret released a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding. “I knew you would follow.”

Hearing her calm tone, the women cautiously opened their eyes.

11:33 am

Chapter 65 Planning the Escape

Before them stood a man who seemed woven from moonlight and shadow.

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He carried two horn lanterns, their warm light spilling into the room. It illuminated Theodore’s features, and though his expression remained unreadable, more than a few of the women found themselves unable to look away.

The woman beside Margaret gasped softly. “Miss, who is this…?”

“My brother. We are here to get you out. You two, start untying the others. We must leave this place.”

Even as she spoke, Margaret had already freed the bonds of the two nearest women.

Theodore remained a silent sentinel by the door.

“There were five men in the yard. They have been dealt with. There is no need to rush.”

His words were barely uttered when another woman cried out, “Five? No, that cannot be right. There are at least twenty of these brigands, likely more. The rest must be out on some raid. They will return. Everyone, run! Now!”

Panic ignited instantly. Several women scrambled madly toward the exit.

“Stop!” Margaret’s voice cut through the frenzy, sharp and commanding. “Do not run blindly. Listen to me.”

Her authority, born of being their rescuer, made them halt. They gathered around her, faces pale with fear.

Margaret moved to the doorway, her own face grim. “First, we must understand how many are truly here. Second, if their numbers are as great as you say, we stand a better chance together. We can protect each

other.

“My brother and I are trained in arms. Stay close to us, and we can offer some defense. But if you scatter to the winds and are caught again, we cannot save you all.”

The women exchanged uncertain glances, but reason prevailed. They huddled together, forming a tight group behind Margaret.

Following her and Theodore out of the foul–smelling hut, they moved to the adjacent shed and freed three more women who were trapped there. Only after ensuring no others remained did they finally move away from that cursed place.

Throughout, Carol’s granddaughter proved helpful. She gave her name as Zoe, and her friend was Amber.

Amber seemed almost giddy with relief. “It’s a miracle. We’re saved. Blessed we were to find such a kind lady. Look, the rain has ceased. Before those villains return, should we not rouse the village? Fetch the constable and his men?”

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