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“The castle has very few servants now because their labor is needed elsewhere, but the room should be clean. There may be a little dust, but this guest room has the best view.”
    She used her candlestick to light the lamp on the desk. Again, the furniture was sparse with only a shabby canopy bed, a wardrobe, a desk, two wooden chairs, and a washstand, but under their feet was another splendid tile floor.
    She checked the pitcher on the washstand to confirm there was water inside. “I hope you’ll be comfortable here. San Gabriel may be in a poor way, but the traditions of hospitality are strong.”
    Will set his saddlebags on the floor. “No need to apologize. This is the best accommodation I’ve seen in months.” He crossed to the window and gazed out at the valley. He was high enough to be above the mist, which was a pale fluffy coverlet over the valley. Above, a handful of stars and a quarter moon brightened the sky. “I look forward to seeing the valley by daylight.”
    “When you’ve had a chance to settle in, wine awaits in the family sitting room, which is the door opposite the stairs. I’ll collect some food to go with it.”
    “And then questions. In both directions.” He hung his greatcoat on a wooden peg. “I’ll join you soon. May I assume that the Olivieras will find accommodations for my batman, Sergeant Murphy?”
    “You may. Though it’s an open question whether anyone down there actually gets any sleep tonight.” She smiled and pulled the door closed behind her. The light of his candle caught a shimmer of auburn highlights sliding down her braid.
    He checked the old wardrobe, which had a sturdy lock and key. That should keep his guns away from any curious children. He set his saddlebags and carbine inside, then locked the door. After washing his face and combing his overlong hair, he considered lying down on the bed for a few minutes, then decided against it because he’d fall dead asleep. Best to find Miss Markham and start that conversation, for he had many questions of his own for his magnificent hostess.

Chapter 5
    A thena descended to the castle kitchen and collected a basket of bread, cheese, and other foods that required no preparation. As she added olives and almonds to her basket, she heard musical instruments being added to the Olivieras’ festivities.
    So much happiness was infectious and she smiled as she returned upstairs. The sitting room had been used for small family gatherings for centuries, she suspected, and the wooden furniture had been shaped by the bodies of uncounted Alcantaras and their friends. Unlike the grand public rooms a floor below, it was relaxed and welcoming.
    Shaken by her meeting with Major Masterson, she concentrated very hard on slicing cheese and sausage and bread. A simple meal, but the wine needed no apologies.
    She had just finished laying out plates and napkins when the major entered the room. He looked so solid and handsome and English that she wanted to hug him.
    She hadn’t realized how hungry she was for the sight of a countryman. Here on the Peninsula, it had been years since she’d seen such a fine strapping fellow. Even in England, there weren’t many men she had to look up to.
    Even more compelling than those impressive broad shoulders was the humor and intelligence in his eyes. She hoped he’d stay for at least a few days.
    Knowing she shouldn’t stare, she lowered her gaze and poured two goblets of red wine. “I imagine you need this even more than food. Unless you’re so accustomed to having guns pointed at you that your nerves are untouched.”
    “Anyone who claims not to be upset after staring down the barrel of a rifle is lying.” His brows rose when he took his first sip of the wine. “But Sergeant Oliviera wasn’t lying when he said the wine was exceptional.”
    Not wanting to think about the future of wine production in San Gabriel, Athena set out the platters of food. “I haven’t much to offer, but this wine does