Read Online Song Of The Nightingale (DeWinter's Song 1) by Constance O'Banyon - Free Book Online Page B

Maclvor clan. Within her burned the pride and fire of ancient Scottish chieftains. Her aunt recognized the strength of character reflected in those flashing green eyes. Kassidy, she thought with pride, would never bow to anyone’s will unless she was forced to do so.
    Kassidy’s gaze went to the stairs. “I can’t seem to think of anything but Abigail. I wish I was lying in that bed instead of Abigail.”
    Her aunt set a steaming cup of tea before her. “You would never have found yourself in Abigail’s circumstances. I’m concerned for her also. But it’s time you realize that you can’t always protect her. Where is her husband?”
    “I don’t know. I don’t even know who he is, or I’d send for him.”
    “None of us knows him. I have been to the cottage several times, but he was never here. When I pressed Abigail to tell me his name, she always refused.”
    “I find this all very strange.” Kassidy heard a muffled scream. She was about to rise, when her aunt stopped her.
    “Mrs. Tetch told me you have not eaten all day. I insist you do so now,” she said, handing Kassidy a plate piled with food. “If we are needed, the midwife will let us know.”
    “Abigail isn’t strong, Aunt Mary.”
    “She’s not strong because you always prop her up and allow her to use your strength. At times I feared she would use you all up, Kassidy.”
    “But after Mother and Father died, she had no one but me. She needs someone to rely on. I had hoped she found those qualities in her husband—apparently she did not.”
    “You both lost your parents, and yet you only grew stronger, while she relied on you more and more. I love her as much as you do, but I also worry about you, Kassidy. If I know anything, you have put yourself at odds with Henry and you’ll be made to suffer over this.”
    “It doesn’t matter. Henry couldn’t have stopped me from coming to Abigail when she needed me. But the one she really needs is her husband. When he does return, I’ll deal with him harshly.”
    Aunt Mary thought Kassidy looked like an avenging angel. But she also looked tired, as if she had fought one battle too many.
    Kassidy took a deep breath and pushed the food away. Standing up, she rubbed her aching back and stretched her tired muscles. “I should return to Abigail.”
    Lady Mary glanced up at the clock. “I am sorry to say that I have to return to London within the hour. I am holding a gala tonight for George’s birthday and must not be late since the prince will be in attendance. I’ll be back tomorrow afternoon. Unless, of course, you think Abigail needs me before then.”
    Kassidy did not want her aunt to leave, but the midwife had not been concerned about the birth. “I’ll send word to you as soon as the child is born. And give Uncle George my love.”
    Lady Mary stood up and adjusted her silk bonnet. “Try not to worry, my dear.”
    Kassidy walked her aunt to her coach and watched until she was out of sight. Then, she slowly climbed the stairs with dread in her heart, and feeling strangely alone.
    Kassidy looked from Abigail’s swollen stomach to her beautiful face that was distorted with agony. She felt every pain that racked her sister’s body in the very depths of her own soul. Tears blinded her as she stood beside Maude.
    “The labor’s turned bad,” Maude informed her grimly. “The baby’s turned sideways, and I’ll have to try and turn it back. I don’t know if I can save either one of them.”
    “Help her,” Kassidy pleaded. “Please help my sister.”
    Maude looked grim. “Keep your wits about you, ‘cause I’m going to need your help.”
    Kassidy swallowed her fear, knowing she must appear unafraid for Abigail. “Just tell me what to do, and I’ll do it.”
    Three hours passed while Maude worked over Abigail. By now Abigail was too weak to do more than moan.
    Kassidy glanced at Maude’s bloody hands and shivered. The white bed sheets were stained with blood, and Abigail was