The Ravenkeeper's Daughter: A Victorian Historical Murder Mystery (The Field & Greystone Series Book 1) by Lana Williams

Author:Lana Williams [Williams, Lana]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: anonymous
Published: 2024-09-17T00:00:00+00:00

Twenty

“Tell me again exactly what occurred.” Henry forced himself to concentrate as Mrs. Greystone repeated the story, this time in more detail.

His thoughts whirled as she spoke. He should’ve taken her concern that someone was watching the house more seriously—a mistake he wouldn’t repeat.

“He reminded me of the man I saw on the street outside the other night. At least, his build was similar as was his hat,” she added. Her hand brushed along Maeve’s hair in a slow, steady motion as she spoke. “I wish I could say for certain.”

The girl sat by her side and stared into the distance with the vacant look he’d come to detest. It was a dark reminder that he had yet to find her father’s murderer, and the child was very much in danger until he did.

Thank goodness Mrs. Greystone had realized what was happening and managed to stop the man who’d tried to kidnap Maeve. Whoever had killed Pritchard must’ve realized there was a potential witness to the crime.

So their troubles were not over. Chances were they’d attempt to take Maeve again.

The event confirmed that the killers believed Maeve might identify them. But pressing her now wouldn’t be wise when she needed time to recover from her fright.

After listening to Mrs. Greystone’s concise report a second time, which included a detailed description of the man, Henry rose. “Might be best if you remain inside for now, you and the girl. I’ll find out the name of the officer who gave chase and whether he was able to catch him. A constable will be assigned to keep watch day and night from this point forward.”

Based on Mrs. Greystone’s puckered brow, she didn’t find the promise reassuring. “I still don’t understand how Maeve managed to follow me. Nor does Fernsby.”

Ah. Perhaps her unease was a result of her own guilt. That was something to which he could relate.

“She was resting in her room when I left,” she continued. “In fact, I didn’t tell her I was leaving because I didn’t want her to worry. Perhaps that was a mistake.” She studied the top of the girl’s head.

“You are not to blame.” Henry wanted to make that clear. He looked again at Maeve to make certain she wasn’t looking at either of them. “Communicating with her is difficult, let alone under these circumstances. You couldn’t have possibly guessed that she’d see you leave or choose to follow you.”

The last thing he wanted was for Mrs. Greystone to feel guilty. She’d already done more than anyone could expect by caring for a frightened, grief-stricken girl—especially given the widow’s own grief from the two losses in her life.

“Thank you, but I feel like I should have.” Mrs. Greystone pressed a hand to her heart as if it still raced. “If I hadn’t paused to look at a trunk in the window, she probably would’ve remained behind me, and I wouldn’t have seen her. She would’ve been taken, and we’d be left wondering what happened. I don’t think I’ll ever forget the sight of his hands on her.

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