Ray of Light by Elizabeth Johns

Author:Elizabeth Johns [Johns, Elizabeth]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Publisher: Elizabeth Johns

Chapter 15

Hugh was dressed all in black ready for the evening’s events, and he had a day’s growth of beard to help hide his face. He pulled his hat down low and stepped into the cold, misty evening. He had a pistol in his belt and a knife strapped on his arm. Hopefully, they would not be needed, but it was best to be prepared. He knew Miss Craig would be out there somewhere, but where? Had she cajoled Deuce into letting her help already?

He walked down to the beach in complete darkness. There was no moon at all tonight. He trod as cautiously and quietly as he could, but the rocks under his feet seemed to echo loudly. He hesitated when he reached the folly. He would have a better view of the beach from there, though he doubted he would see any ships because of the low fog. Would they still attempt to signal from out there? If the organization were down to him, he would move the signal to a lower point along the coast. The only problem with watching from the tower was, if Miss Craig was on the beach and in any danger he would not be able to go to her aid with any speed.

He stopped and, looking up, wondered if anyone was in the folly. First, he debated having a look. He opened the door cautiously, not wanting to give himself away in case one of the smugglers was already in there. Although he had every right to be on his own land, he did not know how they would react if surprised. In the darkness, his ears seemed sensitive to every noise. He tiptoed as quietly as he could on the steps, but then froze when he heard a voice. He strained to hear. Silence.

A faint light flashed ahead of him and he took a few steps, staying back against the cold stone wall. He was determined to have a glimpse of the smuggler.

The person seemed to be muttering to themselves. He could detect an occasional string of words but no reply. He continued creeping up the stairs until he reached the upper chamber, when he saw her familiar form. She was covering a lantern with the thick fabric of her cloak, though there was enough light for him to discern her features. She was looking out intently over the water and did not seem to notice his presence. He walked closer.

“Have you seen anything yet?” he asked in a hushed voice, directly behind her.

She jumped with fright, straight into him.

“Do not scream,” he commanded as he caught her and tried to protect the lantern.

“You should not creep up on people like that!” She turned her head, managing to chide him without taking her eyes off the water.

“You should always be alert for predators.”

She did eye him then. “Thank you for the reminder.” Her voice dripped with derision.

It was going to require a great deal of effort to keep his hands from her, but he was determined he would do so.

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