Marcel Ormond stood before the desk of General Alain Boucher, his hands clasped behind his back as he waited for the older man to speak. He knew he had good reason not to be in full uniform, but he still felt unnerved being in this man's presence in civilian clothes. He was somewhat relieved when the man stood up and walked to the window. Boucher was a cruel soldier and often times disciplined his men for the slightest mistakes.
"So the wedding is tomorrow at two?"
"Yes, General."
"Did he say how many of my men he wanted there?"
"He suggested at least two dozen, not including the ones who are to assassinate..."
"Yes, yes...I know. Two dozen. I leave it to you to choose your men Captain. Make sure they are not squeamish, for I am certain there will be much blood spilled tomorrow."
"I have already chosen the men who are to be at the villa. They will be there as waiters and servants to help with the extra guests."
"Well done. Make sure they know they are to wait until after they are pronounced husband and wife."
"Yes, Sir."
"Have you assigned anyone to take out Larabee and Standish?"
"I chose Coutre and Dechant. They are the best sharpshooters we have. They will make sure the two men are dead."
"Excellent. Once this is over it will be up to you to go into the mountains, get that sonofabitch and burn him out if you have too."
"Understood, General."
"Very well, get back to the hospital before they miss you!" the older man ordered and was pleased when Ormond snapped a perfect salute in his direction. "You will go far, Marcel!"
"Thank you, Sir!" the soldier said, smiling inwardly as he hurried from the minister's office.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ezra sat back in the car, his eyes closed as Marcel drove out of Lyon. His thoughts shifted to the man he was leaving behind at the hospital. Chris Larabee had indeed showed over and over what kind of man he was. In the time he'd worked for The Firm, Ezra had become more and more inclined to care for these men. No matter how hard he'd tried to keep his distance, the others whittled away at his resolve until the conman had no desire to fight his own feelings. Family mattered, and that's all that counted anymore. He sighed heavily, wondering what it was about the man who was about to marry his mother that made his skin crawl. He would have to find out what it was, before Maude was hurt. He gazed out the window, looking up at the mountains, wondering at the dangerous beauty of nature.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chris dozed on and off with the help of the morphine. The orderlies had helped him onto the gurney and taken him to the room in the ER. Although not fully awake, Larabee knew the small hospital was fairly well equipped. Robichaux seemed to know what he was doing, but the blond was still uncomfortable and wished Midland was here.
"Mr. Larabee?"
Chris opened his eyes and looked at the young man who entered his room. "Yes."
"I'm here to take you for your x-ray."
"Okay," the injured man agreed, trying to sit up in the bed.
"Just lie still. Dr. Robichaux didn't want you moving around too much. I can take you down there on this gurney. So just relax and enjoy the ride."
"It's a hospital," Larabee said with a grin as the orderly checked his chart and wristband. "Never enjoy these rides."
"I know what you mean," the young man said, moving the stretcher out of the room.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Maude looked out over the gardens, smiling as preparations for her wedding continued ahead of schedule. She couldn't believe her dream was about to come true with an added bonus. Somehow she'd never thought of marrying a man she loved. Yet here she was acting like a schoolgirl on her first date, marrying a man she deeply cared for who also had stature and wealth. The fact that this man was a king also added to Reginald Thibideu's charms. She heard footsteps behind her and turned to see Miles Benoit standing in the doorway.
"Madame wanted to be informed of her son's return," the butler said formally.
"Oui, I did, thank you, Miles. Would you have him and Mr. Larabee join me out here on the patio and have Marie serve a light lunch."
"Oui, Madame. I will see to it."
Maude turned her attention back to the activity before her, smiling as again her mind wandered to the next day's events. The weather promised to be glorious, sunny and hot with a slight breeze coming in off the ocean. A picture perfect day for her marriage into royalty. She spotted Marie's children playing at the back of the property and instantly her mind conjured up an image of her own son at Francois' age.
Ezra had always been a small boy, and she knew he'd been teased about it in the numerous boarding schools she'd sent him to. She'd managed to give him a formal education, but still lacked the normal motherly instincts that would've wanted her child with her. She regretted the lost time, but not the man her son had become. He was stronger than she'd ever thought possible and she knew most of that came from becoming part of Larabee's team. Somehow the six men her son worked with had instilled a sense of family and loyalty into him that she'd been unable to do. She felt moisture in her eyes, but refused to let the tears fall.
"Mothah."
"Ezra, I'm so glad you have returned. Where is your friend? Is he okay?"
"Dr. Robichaux wanted to do some x-rays before he released Chris. It's just a precaution and he's sure there's nothing seriously wrong."
"He is a good physician, Ezra, and he is always cautious. Chris is in good hands and I am so glad you returned. We have so many preparations to finish."
"That's why I'm here, Mothah. Chris insisted I leave him and have Marcel return to Lyon after he dropped me off. So where is your betrothed."
"He is in his office finishing the final arrangements. He will be joining us when Fathah Pelletier arrives. Marie is bringing refreshments for us while we wait."
"That sounds wonderful, Mothah. I am famished." Standish smiled at the woman who'd given birth to him and realized they got along far better since he'd stood up to her when joining The Firm. His life was truly his own now and not run by his debutante craving mother. He didn't regret his childhood, or his adolescence, but he now understood what true family meant.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Jacob Quelle waited under the overhang to the south of Thibideu's villa. He knew Marie would meet him here at the earliest opportunity. He'd sent word through Miles Benoit that he'd be waiting for her at their usual spot and knew the butler would ensure she understood. The older man did not like his employer very much, and trusted him even less. Benoit had served the Thibideu family for over twenty years and had never before felt such disloyalty to the man who headed the Royal family of St. Dominique. He often wondered why Royalty was granted such rights. It seemed to him a throne should be earned, not inherited, and he knew Charles Legros would be a much better choice to lead his country than Reginald Thibideu, but such was not the way of things. He looked towards the unmarked trail and smiled as the woman he loved entered the small sanctuary. He pulled her into his arms, oblivious of the danger surrounding them. He kissed her soundly before releasing her and holding her at arms length. The years she'd worked for Thibideu showed on her face, yet to Jacob Quelle she was far more beautiful than the well paid models he'd seen on TV.
"Ah, cheri, I have missed holding you so much."
"I miss you too, Jacob. You are looking well."
"Mountain life agrees with me, but I would give it all up to be with you, Lily, and Francois."
"Is Charles any closer to gathering the evidence to convict Thibideu of his brother's murder?"
"Non, there's nothing to tie Reginald to his brother's death, at least not yet. He will not give up, cheri, and neither will I. We just have to give it time."
"I know, Jacob, but I don't know how much longer I can stay under that roof knowing a murderer is giving the orders."
"That is another reason I wanted to see you. How would you feel about leaving the villa and coming to the mountains."
She looked deep into his dark brown eyes and saw the worry in them, before she laid her head against his strong shoulders once more. She knew he worried about her and their children and wished she could leave now, but there were things she needed to do. Sometimes she wished her sense of loyalty would leave her, but that was not to be. She would do whatever she could to help her country become strong as it was under Nicholas Thibideu.
"I can't leave yet, Jacob. I have to see this through for Lily and Francois. I want St. Dominique to be a country they can be proud of. I want Lyon to be a safe place for them to grow up and marry and have a family of their own. That will not happen under that ignorant bastard!" she cursed, remembering the way the older man treated her and the children before Maude Standish came to live at the Villa.
"I understand, Marie, but I still have misgivings about you staying with that animal. Now, what of Lily and Francois? Is there any way for you to bring them to me? I don't trust Thibideu and I don't like the idea of them being present at the wedding tomorrow."
"I don't want them at the villa any longer either, but Francois and Lily are stubborn and independent. They may not wish to leave."
"They take after their mother," Jacob said, holding her tight against his hardened body once more. "I'm sure you can persuade them that it is time to come see their Papa, non?"
"Oui, Jacob, I believe I can do that."
"Now, what of the two guests? Are they trustworthy?"
"I have not had much chance to speak to either of them. The woman's son seems very friendly, although stiff when it comes to speaking with servants. The other man was hurt while swinging with our children," she said, smiling at the thought of the grown man on the children's playthings.
"How badly?"
"I do not know. He was taken into town this morning and has not yet returned. The rehearsal ceremony will be starting shortly and I must be there to make sure the meal is prepared. I will have Miles bring the children here later tonight. Keep them safe, Jacob. I cannot bear the thought of something happening to them."
"I will, cheri. Keep the faith that soon we shall all be together as a family once more."
"Give my love to Charles and tell him to be careful."
"Of course."
"Jacob, I have a feeling something will happen at the wedding ceremony tomorrow afternoon. I don't think Thibideu will let his new wife live after she is formally pronounced his spouse."
"You're not suggesting he would kill her in plain view?"
"Non, but it would not surprise me if he chose to have her assassinated before they consummated their vows. He is in need of her money, but he will not keep her around to find out what he's done to our country."
"Perhaps it would be better for you to come with Lily and Francois. I prefer you not to be there should all hell break loose."
"We've been through this, Jacob, I cannot leave yet. Too much is riding on our being able to prove that Reginald is not only a thief, but a murderer as well."
"We could find another way," he suggested hopefully.
"There is no time. We can't allow him to kill anymore. If he gets his way and has her money he could simply arrange to have his enemies including Charles and y...you arrested and thrown in jail...or simply have you executed as enemies of the state."
"Have you so little faith in your husband and brother?"
"Non, I have faith in both of you, but sometimes you jump in with both eyes closed and damn the consequences. I am safe and Miles is there should I need him."
"Miles is a good man, cheri, but he is not your husband..."
"Ah, oui, but he would protect me and our children with his life."
"I know, go back and send our treasures to me and make sure their mother stays out of harms way. Perhaps we shall find a way to crash that wedding ceremony tomorrow and find the evidence we need on his highness."
"Just be careful," Marie told her husband, kissing him once more before taking her leave of him.
'I am not the one who needs to be careful, mon cher,' he thought as he watched the woman he loved hurry away.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chris sat on the edge of the bed as the physician entered his room. He smiled sheepishly as the man frowned at him, knowing the orders were that he lie down and wait for the results of the tests and x-rays.
"Hi, Doc."
"Are you always this stubborn, Mr. Larabee?"
"Ah...yes, sort of goes with the profession," the blond answered honestly.
"I see, well, I've just had a look at your x-rays and it's as I suspected. Nothing's broken but you've got deep bruising and some swelling. What you need to do is take it easy and allow this to heal. That means bed rest and no extraneous activities."
"Hell, Doc, I'm attending a wedding tomorrow."
"Well, just make sure you don't do any dancing and stay away if anyone mentions doing the limbo."
Larabee couldn't help laughing at the doctor's orders. Doing the limbo was one of the furthest things from his mind. He shifted a little on the bed, feeling a draft at the opening of the hospital gown.
"I won't, Doc."
"Good, now tell me how much pain you're in right now."
"It's fine..." Chris smiled as the older man rolled his eyes. "Okay, I can see you're as bad as Dr. Midland. She seems to know the answer before she asks the questions as well."
"You still haven't answered my question."
"It's not as bad as it was," the blond answered.
"So the shot helped?"
"Yes."
"Good, I'll have Antoinette give you another one before you leave..."
"I don't..."
"Mr. Larabee, are you going back to the villa?"
"Yes. Why?"
"I can assure you it'll be a very uncomfortable ride without a little relief. I've poked and prodded you and the x-ray techs have probably moved you around and also added to your discomfort. Do you deny it?"
"Well..."
"Do you want to be able to go to that wedding tomorrow?"
"Yeah."
"Well, this will help you get through the day, and believe me you'll probably thank me for this. Now are you allergic to anything?"
"No."
"Very good. I'm writing you a prescription for an anti-inflammatory and something to help with the pain. Make sure you take them both when you're supposed to."
"I will."
"Mr. Larabee given what I've heard from you so far I don't think I believe you for a minute. Just make sure you take the anti-inflammatory medications. They'll help with the swelling. Now just stay put for a few minutes until Antoinette gives you the shot. Oh, it will make you sleepy."
"I know," Larabee said, smiling as the doctor left him alone once more. He continued to sit on the edge of the bed, rubbing his lower back as the nurse entered the room a few minutes later.
"I have your medication here, Mr. Larabee."
"Okay, Antoinette." He held still as she gave him the shot, glad for the respite from the throbbing pain the medication gave him.
"Your friend sent the car back for you. The driver is waiting outside."
"Thank you. Is there something else I can help you with?" he asked, seeing something in her eyes.
"Well, I was curious about Ezra Standish. Is he really what he seems to be?"
"That depends on what you think he is. What did you see when you looked at him?" Larabee asked, wondering at the mutual attraction that seemed to flow between the man and woman. In the short few minutes they'd been talking Standish and Devereux seemed to have found kindred spirits and he didn't want to interfere in the possibility of a romantic interlude for the charming gambler.
"I'm not sure. I just thought maybe you could tell me a little about him, besides the fact that his mother is marrying that...that..."
"I take it you don't think kindly of Ezra's future step father?"
"No...no I don't and I'm not the only one. When Nicholas Thibideu was murdered and his brother took over the throne we all thought he would try and find out who killed him, but there was never a real investigation and Boucher's men have made sure no one else has any way of finding the information to bring the murderer to justice. Ezra's mother may be in danger if she tries to interfere in any of her fiancé's plans."
"Boucher works for Reginald Thibideu?"
"Yes, Thibideu owns all the army except those who have pledged loyalty to Charles Legros." Her eyes darted towards the door as if she'd said more than she should have. I'm sorry, I have to go. Just tell Ezra to be careful."
"I will, Antoinette, and try not to worry, perhaps things will turn out better than you think," the blond told her.
"I hope so, Mr. Larabee. Now here's your prescription. There's a pharmacy just across the street. They'll fill it right away."
"Thank you."
"You're welcome."
Chris watched as the petite woman left before he slid off the bed. He stood for several seconds, holding tight to the bed as heat rushed to his cheeks.
"Whoa!" he thought as the room spun a little. He waited for the spell to pass before reaching for his clothing and pulling it on. By the time he was dressed he felt better and the annoying pain in his back was again just a minor ache. He walked out of the room, nodded to the staff that had helped him, and finally walked out into the beautiful afternoon sunshine.
"Mr. Larabee, the car is right over here."
Chris blinked away the brightness and smiled at the chauffeur. "Thanks, Marcel, but I need to get a prescription filled first. They tell me there's a place right across the street."
"There is, but may I say you look a little tired. Perhaps you should allow me to have it filled while you wait in the car?"
Larabee thought for several seconds and realized he really was tired. The result of a fairly sleepless night and the morphine Antoinette had given him. He reached into his pocket and handed the prescription and money to cover it to the other man. He reached for the door handle, not surprised when the Ormond opened the door before he was able to manage it. He slid into the cooler interior, grateful for the soft seats and slightly cooler interior.
"Thanks, Marcel."
"You're welcome, Mr. Larabee," the soldier said, turning away from the car before letting a small smile touch his face. 'You'll be needing more than painkillers when tomorrow comes,' he thought as he sprinted across the busy street.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ezra stood next to his mother, his arm linked through hers as they began the slow march towards the altar still being set up at the front of the lawn. A variety of colorful flowers and pink and white ribbons were also being arranged as they watched Reginald Thibideu stand before Father Pelletier. To Ezra, the man seemed far more nervous than he should be. His fingers played with the buttons on his white silk shirt, or the medallion he wore around his neck. The man's eyes seemed to avoid contact with them until they were standing almost directly in front of him.
"Well, done," the priest explained as they stopped before him. "Now, Ezra, this is where you hand your mother over to her intended and move back to join the gathering of family and friends. Maude, you will stand next to Reginald and you will both face me. Once the vows are read and you kiss, I will introduce you to the congregation and you will walk back down the aisle as husband and wife. Any questions?"
"No, I think you've covered everything, Right, mon cheri?" Thibideu smiled as he took Maude's hand in his own.
"Right, Reginald. Father, are you able to join us for a celebratory dinner today?"
"I'm afraid not, Maude. I have another rehearsal to get to. Perhaps at another time I will be able to join you both," the priest said before turning to his host. "I will be here at 2 in order to make sure everything is ready."
"Thank you, Father Pelletier," Thibideu said, walking beside the priest as they made their way towards the house.
Maude smiled as they passed her son and reached out for him, a sign she wanted him to accompany her into the house. They walked side by side neither speaking until they parted company with the priest who would perform the ceremony.
"Ezra, I can't wait to see you in a full tuxedo. Reginald has arranged for a fitting for you this evening to make sure it fits you properly. I'm sure it will be nice for you to wear one again," Maude explained.
"Mothah, I have had several occasions to wear tuxedos in Billings."
"Really, Dahling. I didn't think there were establishments where formal wear was required."
"I assure you there are plenty of occasions for formal dress," Standish told her as they entered the foyer. He looked towards the door as it opened and Chris Larabee entered.
"Afternoon, Maude, Reginald..."
"Chris, what did the doctor have to say?"
"Ezra, dinner is being served. Perhaps Chris would like to join us," the woman said, as her son pulled away from her.
"You two go ahead. Chris and I will join you if he's up to it," Standish explained, frowning at the pale faced man before him.
"Alright, Sugah, but don't be long. Marie is making her famous Lasagne."
"How are you feeling, Chris?" Standish asked.
"I'm okay, Ezra, Doc gave me a shot before I left and I'm just a little tired," Larabee explained.
"Why don't I help you to your room and you can lie down for a while?"
"Sounds good," the blond groaned as he looked up the stairs. The ride home had wreaked havoc on his back and the pain had come back with a vengeance.
"Are you sure you're okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine. Go on and have dinner with your mother and Reggie."
"I will once you're settled," Standish said, walking beside the blond as he started up the stairs. "Would you like Marie to bring you a tray?"
"Yeah...probably a good idea. Sorry, Ez, not much company right now," Larabee apologized as they entered his room.
"You're far better company than that pompous ass my mothah has become enthralled with."
"Pompous ass?" Larabee's eyelids shot upward. "I don't think I've ever heard you use those words before. I take it you're still unimpressed with him?"
"That's correct. Do you need help getting..."
"You ask that and you just might not be joining the dinner party downstairs," Larabee said, his soft smile belying the threat.
"Alright, Chris. Is there anything else I can get you?"
"No, I don't think so. I'm j...just gonna lie down until the damn morphine wears off."
"Did Dr. Robichaux say what was wrong?"
"Yeah, bruised badly...nothing broken...gave me a prescription for pain meds and anti-inflammatory pills. Marcel picked them up for me already."
"When are you supposed to take them?"
"Pain meds when needed. Anti-inflammatory meds right now," Larabee explained, smiling as Standish hurried to get him something to drink.
"Have to take them on a full stomach, Ezra."
"Okay, I'll have Marie bring you a tray right away," the other man said and hurried out of the room.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"How is Chris?" Maude asked when her son finally joined them at the dining room table.
"He's okay, Mothah, just tired. He asked me to let you know how sorry he is that he won't be joining us for dinner."
"Nonsense, he can join us later on the terrace if he feels up to it, meanwhile I shall have Marie bring him a tray. You'll be glad to know the man I hired to build the swing for the children has already been here and showed me his plans. I believe you would be impressed with his designs," Thibideu told them.
"That's already taken care of, Reginald. I brought the tray up to him a few minutes ago. I'm sure the man you hired will do an adequate job."
"Ezra, Dahling, it's not fitting for you to do such menial tasks. That's what the servants are for," his mother explained.
"Yes, Ezra, we must keep up appearances at all times. You will soon be a part of the Royal family and as such must behave in an appropriate manner," the older man explained.
"I assure you I know how to act..."
"That may very well be, but appearances are..."
"...everything," Standish finished, glaring at his host. "I assure you Mothah has always engrained in me a sense of propriety, but sometimes appearances are not as they seem."
"Ezra, I don't believe Reginald meant anything about your background. He was only worried about your reputation and our own new status in the world. Things change when you become part of a royal family. Ah, Marie, you are just on time," Maude said, hoping to allay any more discontent.
The rest of the meal passed in an uneasy discussion of what was expected of people who were considered part of the Royal family. Everything from propriety to etiquette was discussed, yet for the young conman none of it mattered as he wouldn't be staying on St. Dominique once the wedding and following ceremonies ended.
Ezra sat back and listened as his mother became more and more enthralled by the prospect of being married to a king. He watched as Reginald squirmed slightly in his chair at Maude's mention of their honeymoon. Something didn't sit right with Standish, and he vowed to stick close to his mother in the coming days.
"Ezra, are you alright?"
Standish looked up at his mother's softly spoken question and wondered what he'd missed. "Sorry, Mothah, I was just thinking. Did you ask me something?"
"Well, I did, but it wasn't important. However whatevah yoah thinking about must be as it seems to be keeping you from your dessert. I thought Baked Alaskan was your favorite, but you never even noticed when Marie served you. What are you thinking about?"
"I was just wondering how Chris is doing..."
"I'm sure your friend is fine, Ezra," Thibideu said, his voice lacking concern.
"I think I'll just go check on him myself," the gambler said, removing the napkin from his lap and dropping it beside his untouched dessert.
"Ezra," Maude said, clasping his wrist in her right hand. "I'm sure Reginald is right and Chris is probably resting. Finish your dessert and then you can join us for an aperitif on the terrace."
"No, thank you, Mothah, I believe I'll catch up on my reading and maybe a little television," the younger man said, glancing quickly at the man seated to his right. He could read the man's animosity as clearly as he could read his mother's warmth. He placed a kiss on her cheek before leaving the couple alone.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Chris finished most of his meal and leaned heavily into the extra pillows behind his back. The medication was making him drowsy and he let his eyes close, drifting towards sleep even as he heard footsteps on the stairs. He forced his eyes open as the sound stopped just outside his door and waited to see who his visitor was. He smiled as a light knock sounded and Standish' voice crossed the barrier.
"Chris, are you awake?"
"I'm awake, Ezra, come on in," the blond said, sitting further up in the bed. The door opened and the southerner entered the room, closing the door behind him. Chris didn't like the lines of strain on the handsome face and realized the conman was concerned about his mother's upcoming nuptials.
"Are you okay?"
"No...not really..."
"Did something happen?" Larabee asked, sliding his legs over the side of the bed.
"No, not that I know of, but Reginald Thibideu is not who he appears to be or what he wants us to think he is."
"I think we've been through this, Ezra. What's got you so on edge?" the injured man asked as the other stood up and paced the room.
"I don't know, Chris. It's just a feeling and you know in my profession it's always wise to trust your feelings. Something tells me mothah is in mortal danger and old Reggie is going to try something very soon."
"Why don't we give Vin a call and see if they've come up with anything? Hand me my cell," Larabee ordered and watched as Standish retrieved the item from his carry on bag.
"Chris, I'm really worried about her."
"I know," the blond said as he pressed the button for speed dial. He waited for the call to go through and smiled as Tanner's sleepy voice came over the line.
"Your quarter...use it fast..."
"Bit more than a quarter, Cowboy," Larabee said, smiling at the sleepy Texan's way of answering the phone.
"Chris, that you?"
"None other..."
"Been tryin' ta get ya. Seems yer concerns over Ezra's new step daddy are well founded." The voice was clearer now, all traces of sleep pushed back by the need to give the information to his friends.
"What did you find out?"
"Well, it seems Thibideu's brother...ah," Larabee heard the rustle of papers and knew the younger man was checking his fact sheet. "...Nicholas was murdered under mysterious circumstances. His body was found on the beach, but there was never an autopsy or an investigation. Seems his brother was next in line for the crown and didn't want to sully his own celebration with details of how his brother died..."
"Just the kind of act a loving brother would pull," Larabee said sarcastically.
"Yeah, sure is. There's more..."
"Go on."
"St. Dominique was prosperous under Nicholas Thibideu's rule. There was no sign of financial troubles and no scandals..."
"Until Reggie took over," Larabee stated, watching Standish pace nervously back and forth.
"That's right. Within a year of his brother's death Reggie lost most of the country's capital to illegal gambling and lousy investments. You won't find any of this in their history books, Chris. JD had to dig deep to find out this much. Reginald Thibideu is broke and I think you and Ezra are right to be suspicious of his reasons for marrying Maude Standish."
"Guess we're just gonna have to do something about showing Maude who she's really marrying," Larabee explained.
"Ain't got no real proof, Chris, it's just suspicions and can easily be explained if Thibideu finds out. The man's a slime, but he's covered his tracks pretty damn good. You and Ez best watch each other's backs," the sharpshooter suggested worriedly.
"We will. Keep digging..."
"Sure, I'll call if we find anything concrete. There's also a rebel movement in the country, led by a man named Charles Legros. He's the reason we have the information we do. Seems he's got some kind of underground newspaper running down there. He's got a secret base set up somewhere in the mountains north of Lyon. That's about all we know about him, but we'll keep lookin'."
"Thanks, Vin, I'll check in with you tomorrow..."
"Wait, Chris!"
Larabee stopped at the sharp cry from his best friend. "What's wrong?"
"Just wanted ta ask how's yer pride?"
"Very funny, Tanner, my pride's just fine. Go back to sleep."
"Sounds like a plan. Be careful, Lar'bee."
"We will, bye, Vin..."
"...bye..." the line went dead and Chris turned to the gambler.
"What did he say, Chris?"
"Pretty much what we've been expecting. Reggie is broke and he's probably marrying Maude for her money. Hoping he can use her wealth to hide his own dealings. If we're right then he's probably planning on getting rid of Maude as soon as they are legally married. That way he can do what he wants with her money."
"Mothah has a will..."
"I know, but he may want her to sign a prenuptial agreement or something. If she does that and he words it properly he'll own everything of hers. If he's as smart as he seems he'll have her money in his account before the ring is even placed on her fingers."
"Mothah won't sign anything like that. She's smart..."
"I know she is, but she doesn't need to sign it. He can have someone forge her name and she won't be able to deny it if he's already had her taken care of," Larabee said tactfully.
"You mean murdered?" Standish said, angrily pacing the floor.
"We won't let that happen, Ezra! If we have to we'll get Maude out of here before the ceremony."
"How do we do that, Chris? Mothah certainly won't leave without evidence of Reggie's wrongdoings. The sonofabitch has got her wrapped around his fingers. I think she really does love him and not just his title. I see it in the way she acts around him. I don't want to hurt her, Chris," the gambler explained.
"I know, and we'll do what we can to see that doesn't happen. If Reggie is who we think he is then it's important we make sure she's got some suspicions before she marries him."
"I won't let it go that far! Mothah is not marrying that reprobate!"
Larabee smiled in spite of the seriousness of the situation. He knew Standish sometimes hid behind formality, but in this case he could read the young man easily.
"I guess that means we need to come up with a way of getting her out of here before the ceremony," Larabee said.
"I guess...look, Chris you're hurt. I'll take care of mothah..."
"Ez, if you think for one minute I'm going to leave you to handle this on your own then you'd better..."
"Chris..."
"Think again. My back's not as bad as it was and I've got the pain medication from Dr. Robichaux if I need it..."
"But..."
"No buts, Standish. We need to come up with a plan. Now stop arguing and start scheming."
"Scheming...don't you mean planning," the gambler asked, relieved that he wouldn't be working alone.
"In this case scheming is the more appropriate term. Any ideas on how we get Maude out of here?" Larabee asked, ignoring the renewed ache in his back as he stood up and walked towards the doors leading onto the terrace.
"We could kidnap her," the gambler suggested.
"Yeah, we could, but I'd rather leave that as a last resort. What do you think of Marie?"
"She seems adequate at her job. Why?"
"I get the feeling she doesn't think much of ol' Reggie. I think she might just be willing to give us a hand."
"Can we trust her?"
"There's no one else. She should be coming up for my tray any time and maybe we can ask her a few discrete questions...see if she's as suspicious of Reggie as it seems..."
"Mr. Larabee," the blond turned to see the woman standing in the doorway.
"Marie, I...we..."
"It's okay, Monsieur. I heard very little of what you said, but I assure you I dislike my employer as much as you do. He has proven how despicable he truly is and I know his plans for Madame Standish are not what he wants you to believe."
"What are his plans, Marie?" Standish asked, closing the terrace doors in hopes of keeping anyone from hearing their conversation.
"I do not know, but my brother and my husband have been trying to prove he is responsible for Nicholas' death two years ago. They have not been able to do so yet, but they will. It is only a matter of time before Reginald pays for his wrongdoings and mistreatment of the country's assets."
"You sound like you know a lot about Reginald's activities," Larabee stated.
"My brother is Charles Legros. Actually he is only my half brother and we have different last names even before I married his second in command."
"Legros? He's the leader of the rebel movement, isn't he?" Standish asked.
"Yes, he is, and he's a good man. He was extremely close to Nicholas Thibideu and was angered by his senseless death. He will help if you wish him too."
"What we need is a way to get Maude out of here before the wedding ceremony tomorrow. Maybe we could just tell her we need her to help pick me out a tuxedo," Larabee suggested.
"Not likely, Chris. She won't leave unless it's an emergency and a tux just doesn't fit that bill," the conman informed him.
"What if it was you in need of..."
"Won't work. Mothah has already taken care of that."
"Damn...Okay what..."
"Chris, Mothah won't leave...she's too enthralled with Reginald and the idea of being royalty. It's something she's always dreamed about and unfortunately Mothah can be very stubborn when it comes to getting what she wants."
"Sort of runs in the family doesn't it?" the blond said, before turning his attention to the woman who stood before him. "Marie, is there any way of getting a message to your brother. Maybe he could help us get Maude out of here. Tell him we dislike Reginald Thibideu's actions and are willing to help him find out what the man's been doing and prove what he really is."
"I am bringing Lily and Francois to Jacob before I turn in for the night. I will see that he knows of your suspicions and that you are trustworthy."
"I'm glad you're getting the children out of here. Something tells me tomorrow is not going to be the happy affair it's supposed to be," Larabee said.
"I have to go finish clearing up the dining room," Marie said, picking up the tray as she moved to the door. "I will let you know if Jacob will deliver the message when I return."
"Thank you, Marie. Hopefully we'll be able to find the evidence to convict Reginald and dethrone him before he marries my Mothah and ruins your country."
"I hope so," the woman said as she fled the room.
"That was too close. We need to watch what we're saying and make sure no one is listening in," Larabee said. He moved to the bed and sat down once more.
"Do you think Legros will be able to help us?"
"I think so...especially if he wants help getting to the truth about Reggie's involvement in his brother's death."
Standish could see Larabee was in pain and shook his head at his own thoughtlessness. He sat beside the injured man and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Chris, you need to lie down and rest."
"I'm okay, Ez."
"No, you're not and if you're going to be of any use to me in the next twenty four hours you need to lie down and get some sleep. Do you need something for pain?"
"No, not right now," Larabee said as the other man stood up and poured cold water from the pitcher into a glass.
"Drink this and rest, Chris. That's an order!"
"Yes...boss," the blond said with a soft grin, before he laid back on the bed. "Let me know if anything comes up and don't do anything yourself, Ez!"
"I won't, Chris," the conman said, taking one last look at his injured friend before leaving the room.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Maude, mon amour."
"Yes, Reginald," the woman answered, looking away from the activity still going on around the grounds.
"You know I love you, but..."
"What's wrong, Dahling?" she asked, worried about the tone of his words.
"Well, some say you are only marrying me because of my money and position..."
"They are simply jealous of our love," she said as he wrapped her in his arms.
"That may be, but I cannot have anyone thinking so ill of the woman I love. I cannot bare to hear them speak of you in such a fashion, yet there is something we could do to prove that it is not so," he said holding her at arms length so the light from the full moon twinkled in her eyes.
"Reginald, I do not care what they say about us, but I will do everything I can to make sure there is no scandal from our marriage. What is it you have in mind?"
"I would like us to sign pre-nuptial agreements...hear me out, mon amour," he whispered and pulled her close once more. "This would not be a normal pre-nuptial agreement. It would simply state that we are pooling our resources in order to serve our country's best interests. That way they will not be able to say you are marrying me for my money."
"Reginald, that would only serve to solve part of the problem. They would still talk about my marrying you for your title. Besides, my wealth is nothing compared to yours. Don't get me wrong. I have more than enough money to keep me living in the lap of luxury for the rest of my life and see no need of having yours. Perhaps a regular agreement would go further in proving to your people that I am not a money hungry title chaser."
"No...no, that is not necessary," Thibideu assured her, holding her tight in order to keep her from seeing the fear on his face. "I do not require you to sign anything that says you are not entitled to my wealth should something happen to me."
"Thank you, Reginald, but it's really not necessary for you to apologize, besides I have already made arrangements for what would happen to my money and property should anything happen to me," she explained, frowning as she felt a slight pressure on her arms and her betrothed pulled away.
"I did not know you had made such arrangements," he said softly, trying to hide the anger building deep inside him.
"It is only natural that I make sure my will is up to date, Love, and only right that my money would go to Ezra in the event of my death, especially since you have no need of it. My will was drawn up years ago and I saw no reason to change it," Maude explained, her head leaning heavily against his chest.
"I know, mon amour, and I do apologize. I just thought it was something you and I would discuss after our marriage," Thibideu told her, once more pulling her into his arms so she couldn't see the anger in his dark eyes.
"I'm glad you understand...I was not deceiving you...it was done years ago and I do not plan to change it," she informed him
"I understand, Maude." He again pulled away until he held her at arm's length, smiling at the woman in an effort to ally her concerns. He knew the forgery artist had already placed her name on the new document and as soon as she was dead the money would go into his account. "The hour grows late and we have a busy day tomorrow. I should let you retire for the night, but I fear I shall pine away for you until I see you walking towards me at the ceremony tomorrow."
"I shall miss you as well, Reginald. Thank you for understanding why I will not change my will."
"There is nothing to thank me for, mon amour. Kiss me and dream of our life together from now on," Thibideu told her. He kissed her, fighting the urge to push her away in anger, knowing he needed to keep her from suspecting something was wrong.
"Goodnight, Reginald."
"Goodnight, mon amour, sleep well for your knight in shining armor will be waiting for you tomorrow," the man said, keeping the smile plastered on his face until she was out of sight. He slammed his fist onto the table and silently cursed Ezra Standish for ever having been born, vowing to make sure the man was dead with his own hands.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ezra heard movement behind him and turned, smiling as his mother joined him on the terrace outside his bedroom. "Hello, Mothah."
"Hello, Sugah," she said, kissing him on both cheeks, before linking her arm in his and walking him to the railing.
"Is everything okay, Mothah?" Standish asked after a prolonged silence.
"Oui...yes, everything is fine, Deah boy. What could possibly be wrong? Not only am I marrying the man I love and joining a royal family, but I get to spend some time with my son."
'Who are you trying to convince, Mothah,' the gambler thought as he felt a slight shudder run through the woman's body. He held her for a few minutes until she pulled away from him. He saw the evidence of tears on her face and wondered what brought them on.
"Mothah, what is wrong?"
"I could nevah keep anything from you, Ezra. Even as a boy you were able to tell when I was keeping a secret," she laughed, but there was very little humor in it. "It made it terribly difficult to plan surprises for you. Although I lacked in that department too. I'm sorry, Sugah, I should have been there to watch you grow up. I cannot get those years back, but I need you to know how much yoah mothah loves you."
"I always knew you loved me, Mothah, there was nevah a doubt of that in my mind. You just needed to do more exciting things than raise a child." He watched as she sighed and reached a hand out to her.
"I'm told there is nothing more exciting than raising a child and I lost any chance I had of doing that. Make sure you nevah do that Ezra. If you are blessed with children, be there for them and watch them grow into someone you can be proud of. I don't think I've evah told you how proud I am of you, Son, but I am, and I always will be."
"And I you, Mothah," Standish said, pulling her into his arms. He held her that way as she cried softly for the time they'd lost and was rewarded by a bright smile as she finally lifted her head and placed her mouth next to his ear.
"That doesn't mean I won't keep you on your toes, Sugah," she said, a soft laugh wafting on the evening breeze.
"I wouldn't have it any othah way, Mothah," Standish assured her.
"I think I will bid you goodnight, Ezra. Maybe you should think about getting some rest as well. We have a busy day ahead of us."
"Yes, we have. Goodnight Mothah." He watched her walk to the door and smiled as she stopped and turned towards him once more.
"How dreadful of me. I forgot to ask about, Chris. How is he?"
"He's been sleeping off and on, but he says his back feels bettah."
"That's wonderful. I hope he is able to join the ceremonies tomorrow."
"If there's any way he can, Chris will be there, Mothah." Standish said, smiling as the woman nodded and turned away. He couldn't believe how much their talk affected him and he felt he had a better understanding of who his mother really was. She loved him unconditionally and regretted the choices she'd made in her younger years. That admission did much to take away the pain and loneliness he often felt. Taking a deep breath he moved towards Larabee's room to check on his injured friend.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Lily, Francois, we must hurry."
"But, Mama, I do not want to leave you," the young girl cried as she reached for her sweater and followed her mother out of their room.
"I know, Lily, but it's important that you and Francois leave tonight. Your papa has missed you so and he is looking forward to having you with him. I am sure you will enjoy your time with him as well."
"Of course, Mama, but I worry about you here all alone."
"I will not be alone, Lily. I am sure Mr. Larabee and Mr. Standish will help me."
"Oh they will, Mama. Chris is gonna help build us a new swing," Francois told her excitedly.
"I know, Francois," the woman said, kneeling before her children and placing a hand on each slender body. "You both know we need to be quiet moving through the house. You must not make a sound until we have reached the safety of the trees. Do you think you can do that?"
"Of course, Mama. Francois and I will be as quiet as mice," the young girl said, her face betraying the fear she felt.
"That is good, Lily. We must leave now. Just stay close to me." She led them out of the house and began to walk along the side, knowing Thibideu had heightened security around the property. She knew of an old ill kept trail at the south end of the grounds. One that was closed over with new growth and she prayed it was still there and they could maneuver through it without too much trouble. She moved under the main terrace and pushed the children further into the shadows as she heard Reginald Thibideu's voice above her.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Your Highness, is something wrong?"
"Ah, Marcel, oui something is very wrong, but only until the ceremony tomorrow. Did you get the forgeries completed?"
"Oui, I have them here and wanted to be sure I gave them to you," the soldier told him, handing the official looking documents over to the other man.
Reginald broke the seal and opened the gold embossed folder, smiling as he took the document and held it before his eyes. He smiled as he noted it was back dated by three weeks, a fact he hoped would take suspicion away from Maude Standish' death. He placed the papers on the table and ran his fingers over the signatures at the bottom of each page. The work was exemplary and he knew it would hold up in a court of law if no one protested his right to the money. If Maude and Ezra Standish were both dead there would be no one left to argue his right to her money. He placed the documents back in the folder and turned towards the other man.
"Did you complete your assigned task?"
"Oui, his body is now feeding the sharks."
"Good, I am going to place this in my safe until after the ceremony tomorrow. It will go far to helping me get her funds as quickly as possible. Is everything set to go?"
"General Boucher said to inform you that all is in readiness."
"You have chosen the men who will take care of Standish and his friend?"
"Oui, they will also be taken care of as soon as the job is done. It will look like Legros' made the attack and succeeded in killing not only your new wife but her guests as well. Coutre and Dechant will take the blame for all of this and I've arranged for them to be tied in to Legros and his rebels. It will go far towards ensuring the people of Lyon will trust you and your decisions. They will think of you as a victim and Legros as a murdering sonofabitch!"
~~~~~~~~~~~
Marie held her children close against her as she tried to keep them as far back in the shadows as she could. She understood that if they were caught Thibideu would have them killed before they could give voice to what they'd heard. She felt her children tremble as the voices continued to seep down from above. She knelt down and hugged them both to her.
"It's okay, just keep quiet until they leave," she whispered, praying no one would see them from the other side of the grounds. The moon was partially hidden by clouds, but still shed enough light for her to make out shadowy forms moving off to her left. Somehow she had to keep her children hidden from prying eyes. She vowed to keep them safe no matter what.
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