The Baron of Latiz (11)

 11

Samh 08.21.1339 11:27

When Amoranda realized she had upset Silvergor, she immediately began to be very sorry for it. Her first thoughts about Kieron’s behavior had been the same she always had for troublesome admirers—get rid of them without cutting the connection. To hear her new guardian interfering in her business irked her. 

She never expected him to leave. She hoped he would sit quietly down again and let her deal with the problem. Instead, she had stood against him and had given Kieron false reason to believe she cared for him. She also knew her behavior toward Silvergor would highly trouble one of the best uncles on the planet.

“Please, Kieron, just go,” she said when her guardian had left the room. “I wish to be alone today.”

 “Amoranda, I would do any of ten thousand things to oblige you, but I desire one thing in return for all,” he said as he stared into her eyes. A shiver ran down her spine. Thankfully, Pethany entered just then, and her presence gave her courage.

“When I understand you,” she replied, “I will know how to reply to that. In the meantime, I repeat the request I made many times: Leave me now.”

Without warning, he grabbed her roughly and forced a kiss upon her. Before she could react, he was gone.

“Are you okay, Madam,” Pethany said, and she nodded. “He’s a bad one. I hope we never see him again, but I fear he will keep showing up. I am glad Mr. Silvergor had me come in here—otherwise who knows what he might have tried!” 

Amoranda was glad he had not come looking for his lost box. She had not had enough time to decide upon a plan for dealing with such a request. At the same time, she now worried he might show up again just to ask for it. She considered returning it if he did come back just to get rid of him quickly, but she knew having the box would not cause him to leave her alone. 

After splashing some water on her face, she went looking for Silvergor and found him in the parlor in a very thoughtful melancholy posture. The stolen kiss had convinced her she had been foolish to offend her guardian. She needed him. She was certain his presence would have prevented Kieron’s actions—Silvergor would have given his life rather than allow it if Kieron’s own shame had not stopped him. 

“Silvergor, I came to tell you I am concerned about what happened today. I hope it pleases you to know that I sent Colonel Kieron away. I faithfully promise you right now I will never come into his company anymore without your consent.” She crossed over and sat down next to him. “I admit, I have the greatest desire on the planet to please you. I do believe you are sincerely my friend. You have so far provided nothing but good aide and advice. I will always listen to your counsel. Please don’t let this early quarrel destroy our future friendship.” Tears came to her eyes.