Chapter 373: Free [2]

Nathan entered the bedchamber alone, making Camille wait at the door while he examined Hayden’s body. He confirmed that Hayden was no longer alive and checked the bandages, which were freshly placed and neat.

After his inspection, Nathan returned to Camille.

"I’ve confirmed that your husband has passed. From my observation, I see no foul play, but I must take his body to the court for our doctor to examine him," Nathan said, removing his gloves. "I am sorry for the loss you and your children have suffered."

Camille covered her mouth, trying to hold her cries back.

"This may seem insensitive to ask now," Nathan said, having to act fast. "But what were you planning to do to the doctor had we not arrived? We came at a rather dangerous time."

Camille’s eyes filled with water in hopes of winning over Nathan. "I wanted to keep him here, to question him about how he tended to my husband. I wanted him to go over it again to bring me some comfort. I might have scared him because of the tragedy."

"I understand your side, but you cannot keep someone against their will. Your wealth does not grant you such power, and he could make a complaint against you. You appear different from the woman I once knew. Get help," Nathan said, placing his hand on her shoulder.

"I don’t feel like myself," Camille whispered, and this time, she meant it. "I’m ashamed of myself."

"I have someone I can recommend to help you. They will keep all that is said private. Would you accept such help?"

Camille considered it, but she did not trust that her troubles would remain secret. "I think leaving town, as you said, will help me. I need time away with my children. Can I leave tomorrow, or will the court demand I stay?"

"If we settle this matter quickly, you may leave soon. As for your guard, his release may take longer, but as long as you provide us with your new location, letters can be sent. Do not disappear on us," Nathan warned.

At this point, Nathan’s concern was only with the children. He did not fully believe Camille was innocent, especially if she had heard whispers of Hayden’s crimes against her brother.

"I must speak to the doctor and arrange for your husband’s body to be taken away. So your children do not hear of the loss from anyone else, we will keep his death a secret for now. Good day," Nathan said, excusing himself.

Camille remained silent.

’Should I go to Damien?’ she wondered, though she could not imagine what they would speak about.

Surely, since she had allowed Hayden to be killed, Damien would set aside his grievances and help her for the sake of her children.

’I am a victim in all of this. This should not ruin my reputation. He tricked me, made me bear his children while plotting against my brother. They should all pity me,’ Camille thought, a flicker of relief warming her chest.

Though her perfect marriage had shattered and many young ladies would whisper in shock, Camille saw opportunity. This was her chance to rise above tragedy, to prove her resilience. She could remarry, perhaps to any man she desired in town.

For the first time in days, Camille felt a strange relief. Rather than dwell on the future, she allowed herself to celebrate that her brother’s killer was gone.

Meanwhile, Nathan returned to his peers and Michael.

"We must prepare for his body to be moved to the court doctor. Do so privately, as we cannot allow news of his death to spread just yet," Nathan instructed the group. "As for you, Doctor, I will need your bag."

"Of course," Michael replied, handing it over without protest. "Am I free to go? You know where I reside."

"You may go, but be ready to appear in court should we need you. You are not to leave town," Nathan said.

"I understand. I have no reason to leave. I will be on my way," Michael said, bowing his head before excusing himself.

He walked slowly to the door, trying not to draw suspicion. Just as he opened it, Nathan stopped him again.

Nathan stepped outside with Michael and closed the door behind them. "Are your pockets empty?"

"There is only some money for food and a carriage home. Must I hand it in?" Michael asked, slipping his hands into his pockets. His fingers brushed against the small bottle he had hidden, knowing his bag would be taken.

"No. I would not keep you from returning home, but I must check your pockets. It is my duty," Nathan said, recalling Damien’s warning. "Remove your hands so I may search you."

Michael obeyed slowly. He accepted that he would be arrested for murder. Yet he felt no regret as his debts to the late Lord and Lady Hawthorne were paid.

Nathan stepped forward, slipping his hands into Michael’s pockets. His fingers closed around the bottle. He pulled it out, staring at the unmarked glass. No label revealed its contents, but Nathan suspected this was the cause of Hayden’s death.

He looked back at Michael, startled by the doctor’s calmness. Michael’s face showed no fear, only readiness to accept punishment.

"Did Lord Hawthorne have a hand in this?" Nathan asked, needing to know why Michael risked his life.

Michael answered, "I am a humble and loyal servant of the late Lord and Lady Hawthorne. Lord Hawthorne had no part in this. If you must arrest me, then do so now."

Nathan studied the bottle once more, then placed it back into Michael’s pocket. "Just this once, because I failed them the first time. You are not to speak of this, nor are you to take justice into your own hands again. Now, go."

Michael froze, stunned. "I am free?"

"Not if you keep standing here," Nathan said, turning his back. "Go before I return to the laws of this kingdom."

Michael moved quickly, his heart pounding. He ran towards the gates, ignoring how suspicious it appeared. He glanced back repeatedly, terrified Nathan might change his mind.

Only when he passed through the gates did Michael finally feel truly safe.