THIRTY-NINE
It was strange to have a tent to herself again, but Rhona lingered there as long as she dared the next morning. She toyed with the idea of avoiding the noon peace council, but in her heart she knew she could not.
The Wolf Prince believed the cowardly Albans would surrender Portia. If she was lucky, Grieve would be among the girl's honour guard. Rhona could remain in the background and watch unseen as she saw how things played out between Portia, Grieve and Rudolf.
But when the boat landed, there were three armoured men aboard – no women.
Rudolf appeared as impassive as ever, not showing the surprise Rhona knew he must feel at not seeing Portia with them.
They came ashore, removing their helms as Rudolf did. That's when Rhona clapped both hands to her mouth to stifle he
