Rose got up as a maid entered with a tray. “Just set that on my sister’s night table,” she commanded. Then, to Daniel, “Eat every bit, Your Grace.”
“I need a little fresh air,” Thomas said. “I’ll be back to check on her later.”
“Jameson, don’t leave me alone with her,” Daniel pleaded.
Thomas chuckled as he walked out the door. “It’ll be good practice for when you’re married to Lily.”
“Come on,” Rose said, “or I shall have to summon my mother, and yours.”
“That’s hitting below the belt.” Daniel took a bite of a scone which tasted like sawdust. He noticed a quick flutter of Lily’s eyelids. “Lily?”
“What happened?” Rose asked.
“Her eyes moved just a little.” He shook Lily gently. “Lily, can you hear me?” Another flutter. “I think she’s responding.”
Rose came quickly. “She may just be dreaming.”
“Yes, I suppose you could be right.”
“I’m going to go get her puppy from the kennels,” Rose said. “I’ll be back in a little
while.”
“All right. Thank you for taking care of her.”
“I would do anything for her. She’s the closest person to me in the world.” Rose left the room briskly.
Daniel leaned down and kissed Lily’s parched lips. “Please wake up, my love. There are so many people who love you and need you. Especially me.”
Lily’s eyes fluttered again. “Daniel?”
Daniel’s heart thumped. “Lily, Lily. I’m here.”
“Where am I?”
“You’re in my chamber. You fell down the stairs. Do you remember?”
“I-I think…”
“Don’t try to talk, love. I’ll take care of you. I’m going to get you some broth.”
“Don’t want…”
”Shh.” Daniel brought the broth and helped her lift her head. “Come on, love.” He spooned some into her mouth. “That’s a good girl.” Lily took two more spoonfuls before she fell back into unconsciousness.
“Damn it, Lily, don’t leave me again!” He laid her head down on the pillow as she started shivering. Daniel wrapped her in blankets and held her close.
Chapter 18
Lily awoke in darkness, drenched in sweat, her body wrapped in a dank chemise. Cold and clammy bed linens clung to her bare skin. As her eyes slowly adjusted to the darkness, she attempted to move her body, but dull aches overwhelmed her. She groaned softly and tried to sit up, bracing her hands beside her, startled to feel another body next to hers. Daniel was on top of the covers, dressed in a shirt and trousers.
“Daniel?” she whispered. When there was no response, she gathered all the strength she could muster and nudged his arm gently. “Daniel?”
His eyes flashed open. “Lily? My God, Lily!” He sat up quickly. “My love, how are you feeling?”
“I hurt.”
“I know. I’m so sorry. Don’t try to move.”