Disowned by M.J. Haag

Author:M.J. Haag [Haag, M.J.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: M.J. Haag

The market was crowded and noisy. It felt good to sit amidst all the bustle but odd to be on the opposite side of the table. I was used to walking the streets and looking at the wares, not trying to sell my own.

Well, not my own but Elspeth’s. She sat further back under the awning of her booth, trusting me to sell her potions and collect the money for each sale while she napped. Yesterday had exhausted her. She seemed in less pain today, though.

Between selling love potions that took effect just long enough for an ill-timed kiss, which led many to forced wedlock, and potions that enhanced beauty, I watched the crowds.

There were many faces that I recognized. Boys with whom I had danced and girls with whom I had spoken. However, none of them gave me a second glance. Again, the clothes helped to disguise the face even when in plain sight.

I was only interested in one particular face, though. Atwell had promised to call on me yesterday and had never shown. I understood his concern for his father was probably foremost in his mind. However, he was foremost in mine. The night he had saved me had shown me his true character. It was a characteristic I had dared not hope to find in a boy of my own standing. My parents would be furious if I married beneath my position. But now I was free. Free from their manipulations. Free from their influence.

Not forgetting my promise to the queen, I had written a letter this morning and found a messenger as soon as I arrived at the market. By now, Mother and Father both knew I was alive and well. Elspeth was certain they would demand that I return. So I had taken precautions to ensure they would not be able to find me. I didn't want to return. Not now. Not ever. There was too much to look forward to in this life.

The day wore on, but I did not give up hope that I would see Atwell. Instead of his handsome face, I saw the familiar face of the messenger boy who lived near Elspeth's house. The one I had trusted with my letter because he never succumbed to bribery.

“I didn't expect you to return,” I said when he slipped behind the booth.

He gave me a nervous look and handed me a folded and sealed bit of paper.

“I didn't say nothing,” he said. “I didn't need to. They just wanted me to deliver a message back. I made sure I wasn't followed. Walked around most of the day.”

I accepted the note and broke the seal as the boy ran off.

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