Spirits

Chapter 24

The morning sky dyed the golden crops orange, pink, and purple as we passed and it was truly beautiful. In the distance, I could see a large plantation house resting near the edge of the forest. The tall building was adorned with stone decoration and plants. Tall trees cast shadows onto the front yard and the vines crept along the ancient walls.

"Your family owns this land?" Jax asked, a hint of disdain growing in his voice.

"We don't, but Isabella holds a connection to Lord Bartne and his assets." I fiddled with the dresses' seam pulling at the loose thread. "

"That might make it easier." Jax looked away and we continued toward Isabella's house. "You and your sisters have influence, perhaps we can use that to obtain resources in the war."

"No." I shook my head, feeling guilty my only gift to the Spirits was my vicious ancestry. "I lost my title when I ran from my arranged marriage and Isabella was married off for a contract. We don't have power in the family, just pawns for my father."

I kept hurried ahead until I stood in front of the door, unable to take the last step alone. I waited for Jax to join me on the front step, his imposing figure soothing my growing nerves. I doubted that Isabella would be up at dawn, but she had always been an early riser. I grabbed the brass knocker and swung it into the door resulting in a loud bang that echoed in the house.

"There is a chance someone other than Isabella will answer the door." Jax steered me behind him and I was left to peer behind a tall frame. "If we need to run, I can distract the person long enough for you to escape."

I softened at Jax's words. I brushed my hand against his arm as I muttered a thank you. I let my arms drop as footsteps sounded behind the door, realizing my actions at the last second.

The click of metal on metal proceeds the groan of old hinged. I bit my lips, eyes squeezed painfully as I listened.

I swallowed a gasp as longing coursed through my body. "Who are you?" Isabella's voice filled the air. "Do I know you?"

Jax rolled his shoulder before leaning down toward the hole in the door. He looked suspicious with the dark hood, but I could imagine a charming smile playing on his features. It was enough to convince even the stubbornest of women and I had no doubt Isabella would fall for his character.

"Are you Isabella?" A large pause followed Jax's question and I could hear Isabella fidgeting behind the door.

"No one calls me Isabella. Who are you?" Isabella asked, her voice was more venomous than before, a hard note of steel in it.

My heart warmed at her words, leaving it to my sister to rebuff the Seductor. She had always been the stubborn one. I did not doubt that she could hold her own against any normal charmer, but she had never met Jax.

"My name is Jax and I am a friend of your sister." Jax gave a small wave, pulling his hood down. "Is there anyone here that your sister wouldn't want to see?"

Jax's question was innocent, but I could hear the sharp intake of breath. A pause froze my heart before the door was thrown open completely, the wood thumping on the wall.

"Have you seen my sister?" Isabella's voice was panicked and followed by heavy breathing. "Is she alright?"

I peeked out from behind Jax and saw the young woman wearing a blue silk dress and bodice. Her hair was disheveled and large bags rested underneath her eyes.

"Isabella," I breathed.

I ran around Jax to hug Isabella. Her arms wrapped around me and held me close. I clung to her, missing her smell and feel. I could feel the tears build up in my eyes and her body shook with relief as well.