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To Natali and Mary whom I have the pleasure to call my sisters.
Alekmag Ai, creater pictures Обложка
Alekmag Ai, creater pictures Иллюстрации
© Catherine Nightingale, 2024
ISBN 978-5-0065-1222-1
Created with Ridero smart publishing system
“I would not wish any companion in the world but you.”
– The Tempest,
“The royal letter playlist”
1. Thomas Newman | Spectre End Title
2.Thomas Newman | Secret Room
3.Thomas Newman | Westminster Bridge
4.Billie Eilish | No Time To Die
5.Sam Smith | Writing’s On The Wall
6.Ed Sheeran | Photograph
7.Ed Sheeran | Autumn Leaves
8.Ed Sheeran | Bad Habits
9.Ed Sheeran | Kiss Me
10.Sam Tinnesz feat. Yacht Money | Play with Fire (feat. Yacht Money)
11.Adele | Easy On Me
12.John Barry | The James Bond Theme (From “Dr. No”)
13.Shakespeare In Love – Stephen Warbeck | The DeLesseps dance
14.Lorne Balfe | Scholastic Sanctuary
15.Lorne Balfe | To Be Close To You
16.Lorne Balfe | Until The Day I Die
17.Lorne Balfe | Every Year
18.Joseph Trapanese | Final Goodbye
19.Matthew Morrison | We Own The Night
20.Florent Mothe, Camille Lou | Quelque chose de magique
21.Christina Aguilera | Anywhere But Here
22. Philippe Rombi; Frederic Chopin | Nocturne N°20 en do diese mineur op.
Prologue
– Dinner’s ready, dear. Come along.
– Yes, darling. I’ll be there in a minute.
A woman in her sixties was laying the table for dinner in a spacious dining room. It was six in the evening and the sun was about to set. The sky was coloured in pink and orange, colours which indicated that tomorrow it’s going to be pretty windy. The flames creaking in the fireplace warming up the room. Evenings in October tend to be quite cold here in Stratford.
A man in his early seventies walked into the room smiling at his beloved wife.
– How’s it going with the Leicester’s eastate renovation? – Eleanor Winters enquired her husband.
– It appears that it’s going to take more time than expected. – Mr. Winters replied.
– I’m just curious, why has the government decided to renovate it now? It has been in ruins for ages…
I know exactly why. I fear, the true purpose might attract all sorts of crooks, treasure hunters and smugglers. I can hardly imagine those outlawed people flooding the country. For God’s sake! Something has to be done…
I suppose, the government cares deeply about our historical heritage, Eleanor. –
– Yes, but why now? There are loads of other problems to deal with, rather than getting busy with these ancient estate remnants.
– Don’t be so hard on them, deary! After all if not for these remnants I’d be unemployed. – A light smile touched Kenneth’s features.
I hate lying to the ones I love, unfortunately I have to out of duty. I can’t put Eleanor at risk. Something has to be done, without getting my family involved.
– Kenneth? Kenneth? – Eleanor’s voice distracted Kenneth from his thoughts.
– Yes, honey? -Mr. Winters answered, confused.
– Is anything troubling you? You look concerned.
– There’s nothing to worry about, my love. This day was quite tiresome. That’s all. – He leaned forward kissing his wife to comfort her.
– Has there been any word from Katherine, since she last visited us? – Kenneth asked wearing a grim expression.
– She called two days ago promising to visit us in two weeks as there’s loads of work to be done on her Shakespeare paper. Weren’t you the same as a student? Please, don’t be so grim. She did what she had to do, darling.
– Refusing my name? Walking away from everything I’ve achieved throughout the years exploring the Tudors history? -Mr. Winters smirked.
– She didn’t go into your steps simply because she’s so badly in love with English literature and Shakespeare’s work, in particular. Besides, your name would have prevented her from achieving everything herself. You’re a well-known historian and the leading member of the Royal Historical Society above all.
– Is that a bad thing? – Kenneth shrugged.
– Not at all, my love. It’s just, – she hesitated, – she’s been independent for as long as we can remember, and all your ranks and titles leave no chance to enter the scientific world on her own. – Eleanor put her hand on her husband’s shoulder.
– May be you’re right. But I’m still certain that she’s made a childish mistake, besides our longtime dispute still bothers me. It was pretty disrespectful of her to leave the house in such manner. I wish, things could have been different. – Kenneth sighed.
– We both do, darling. Don’t beat yourself up. I’m sure time will come to make things right. – comforted Eleanor her sad husband.
– Your words go to God’s ears! -Mr. Winters sighed filled with fatigue.
– I think all this hustle and bustle exhausted me tremendously. It’s such a fine evening it would be foolish of me to stay home. Jackson, come here, boy! -Kenneth cried out calling the dog. A fluffy little corgi dashed into the dining room with it’s tail wagging. Mr. Winters patted the dog on the head adjusting a leash to it’s collar.
– Be sure to return by dark, dear, -Eleanor asked, her voice filled with worry.
– No worries, darling. I’ll be back before you know it. – Kenneth smiled leaving the house.
Fresh air has definitely brightened up Mr. Winters’ mood. He was walking around the neighborhood feeling cool breeze on his cheeks.
– The weather is truly wonderful, isn’t it, Jackson? -Kenneth marvelled looking at the dog. Jackson running smoothly beside his master with his tongue out breathing steadily.
Suddenly a huge black van appeared out of nowhere. Approaching Kenneth it came at a halt. He could have been killed! Two intruders turned out of the shadows: a bulked-up thug and a lanky short man, wearing black got out taking grasp of Kenneth.
– What is the meaning of this? Who are you? What do you want from me? -Kenneth exclaimed furiously.
– Keep quiet, old chap, or someone’s gonna get hurt! -the tallest of strangers roared forcing Mr. Winters into the van.
Jackson barking trying to chase off the two men.
– Shut up, you mutt! -one of the brutes blurted trying to hit the dog.
– Run Jackson, run! Save yourself! -Mr. Winters exclaimed.
The van fled in an unknown direction leaving Jackson in the middle of the street barking heavily.
PART I
Chapter 1 A Mysterious Savior
It was a tough day at Oxford. October is usually a difficult month to get through. So many works to submit. Finally the day is over and I can have a proper Earl Grey cup of tea at my favourite “The Grande Cafe”.
With all these thoughts buzzing in her head Katherine was heading home after a long and busy day at the Faculty of Literature. Her paper on Shakespeare has already took her about two years. She did love exploring old Oxford libraries full of various folios with those cracking with years bindings. The atmospere in the library was exquisite. It’s just, spending so much time in closed spaces devasted her a bit and Katherine was really happy to finally escape the building and spend the remainder of the day walking the cosy streets of Oxford inhaling this fresh evening air and just enjoying some me time.
That’s funny… I can actually feel someone’s eyes on my back…
Katherine turned around to break her suspicions.
Nothing… – Well, I have probably spent too much time in those stuffy libraries. I start making things up. Come on, just relax! Goodness gracious! Why haven’t I considered wearing something warmer and more comfortable than this silk black dress. Sometimes, fashion forces to make foolish decisions…
Soon, the shiny Grand Cafe was finally withinh her grasp and Katherine hurried up to get inside.
At least, inside this cosy place my mind will stop playing tricks on me. I’m despearate for a cup of hot black tea.
When getting to the counter, Katherine spotted a handsome man in his early forties sitting next to the window. His face features delicate, sharp, and manly. His thick brown hair with a little touch of grey to his tempeles and beard. The stranger was busy typing something on his laptop. He was wearing a chocolate-brown three-piece-suit with his jacket hanging on the chair back. Suddenly the man raised his eyes from the screen and they shared a glance.
Seems like he’s smiling at me with those ocean-like quartz eyes. Must be one of our Oxford professors having a rest after a busy teaching day. Getting students’ attention can be difficult these days. But why does he keep starring at me?
Katherine could have continued this chain of suggestions but then she realised why did she come here in the first place.
– Hello – she addressed an accountant.
– Good evening Miss. What can I get you?
– I’d like a cup of an Earl Grey please.
– Anything to eat?
– No thanks, just some tea.
– That’s 4.95, please.
– Here you go. Thanks.
With her tea on a tray Katherine started scanning the place for the best table to sit at. There was a nice one near the fireplace.
. I do like English cafes for such cosy corners
Heading to the table, seating herself down, Katherine took her laptop out of a backpack (quite heavy to carry actually, but she had years of practise) and opened it.
Ok, so what do we have here.
Katherine opened her inbox to see a notification of one new message. As she was about to look into it the door swung open revealing two men of large and medium height on the threshold. They closed the door noisily and went straight to the counter.
– Hey, bimbo! -one of the strangers exclaimed with an Ameican accent that sounded so aesthetically displeasing…
Why do Americans always behave as they are the masters of the world?
These two annoyed Katherine a great deal.
They ordered some beer and were on their way to the table next to the door when they saw Katherine and stumbled.
– Hey, Ax isn’t that this chic the boss told us to get hold of?
– I suppose you’re right, Dirk. Let me check the pic. Damn, it is her! We are pretty lucky today!
They left the beer on the counter and moved right to Katherine’s table.
– Hey, babe! Feeling bored around here?
Oh God! I do hate the manner they address women! Some etiquette lessons would do them good.
– I beg your pardon? – asked Katherine taken aback.
– “I beg your pardon” tried a man whose name as we have already learned was Dirk, to mock at Katherine’s intonations. – British bitches, why do they always speak like some kind of royalty? Listen, stop playing games. You go with us now, and no one’s going to get hurt. You refuse, we shred up this place and bring you a lot of pain!
– I think you’re mistaken. I have no idea what you’re talking about and I’m going nowhere! -Katherine replied firmly.
– Why are you always so rude, Dirk? She’s a lady.-the middle height man whose name was Axel cut him off. – Listen, miss, we’d like you to come with us and you’d better contemplate carefully before refusing.
That chap is definitely more intelligent than his gorrila of a friend.
– Once again, I’m not going anywhere. Leave me alone, would you?
– She’s all yours!
Dirk grasped Katherine’s hand tightly and was about to force her to get up from the chair when a hand shook his shoulder.
– Problem, gentlemen? -it was the quartz-eyed man.
I bet the shorter one will leave all the dirty business to his giant friend. Though, he won’t stand a chance in a fight against the mysterious savior. With such a built, broad shoulders and powerful arms he’s a match for anyone.
– Who the hell are you? -Dirk blurted hastily.
– Wrong question, sir. I see you are disturbing this young woman and judging from her frightened face, I assune you’re not her friends. Why don’t you let her be and leave the place immediately? – the gentleman said confidently looking them straight in the eye.
– You’re a quickwitted chap, hah? Let’s see how your little brain works after I smash it into the wall! Out of my way! -Dirk exclaimed menacingly.
– Sorry to disappoint, but you’ll never see that happening. Once again, let the young woman be, before I make you. There will be no more warnings.-the man’s tone getting less polite and more demanding.
– I think that’s none of your business, sir. said Ax. – Get back to your table and proceed with that silly English tea you Brits drink day and night. Never understood this fucking tradition of yours.-the thugs bursted out laughing. -That was probably one of your best jokes, bro! -Dirk remarked laughing like a hyena.
– This conversation is getting on my nerves.-the stranger remarked irritably, towering over Axel.
– Dispose of him! -Axel commanded.
– Don’t tell me I didn’t warn you.-the savior remarked taking a glass of beer from the table cracking it on Dirk’s head. Ax took out a knife trying to hit Katherine’s savior. No luck. The stranger was as fast as a bullet. In seconds he gripped the thin man’s hand and smashed him into the wall.
– Watch out! -Katherine alerted as Dirk rose up with a chair in his arms trying to hit the stranger. The man managed to dodge, as the chair flew towards him crashing the bar. They got in a massive fight when finally the stranger pushed the hulk hard straight into the glass door.
– Pardon the intrusion, ladies and gentlemen. Have a nice evenig! -the stranger apologised with his usual charm. Then he came up to Katherine. – Are you all right, Miss?
– Well, yes, thanks to you! Goodness gracious, what on Earth did they want from me anyway? If not for your interference, I can’t even imagine what could have happend…
– It’s all over, Miss. These two are not going to disturb you anymore. Someone, call the police! -he cried helping Katherine out of the cafe grasping his jacket.
– You’re trembling,. Here.-the gentleman pulled his jacket over her shaking shoulders. -That’s better. The shock will be over soon. Sorry for all that mess. I just can’t stand Yankees harming fine English ladies.
– I don’t know how to repay you for your actions. One against two. That’s risky… You could have got hurt badly.-Katherine’s voice sounded concerned.
– I’ve had worse, trust me! -the stranger remarked with a smile, exposing dimples and little wrinkles next to his eyes.
He has such an inviting smile, I should say. And those little wrinkles make this gentleman really charming.
– I owe you my life, but I still haven’t enquired about your name. How rude of me.
– Daniel, at your service, Miss.-he took her hand and kissed it gently.
– Katherine. Pleased to meet you.
– The pleasure is all mine.-Daniel responded.
Have I timetravelled? Do such men still exist? He resembels that fairy-tale shiny armoured knight. How did he end up in this cafe, anyway? And most importantly, where did a regular Oxford professor learn hand-to-hand combat? Oh, dear, my head is flooded with questions. That’s enough for today.
– Katherine, are you all right? -Daniel inquired observing her puzzlement.
– Fine, thanks. Still in shock.
– Would you mind if I escort you home? For the sake of security, of course.
– Oh, I owe you so much, and that’s really kind of you, but I’m sorry. I have to decline your offer, as we barely know each other.
– Fair enough. Let me at least call you a cab, so that there are no other intrusions on your way home. – he offered politely.
– That would be nice, if I’m not bothering you? – Katherine accepted.
– Not at all.
Katherine was about to take off the jacket when Daniel stopped her – Keep it. You’ll need it tonight.
– But, how am I supposed to give it back to you? -Katherine asked surprisingly.
– May I take your phone.-he reached out his hand waiting for Katherine to hand the phone.
Katherine doubted for a moment. Sharing one’s phone with a stranger might be dangerous, but taking into account what has just happened, it worth the risk.
– Here you are.
Katherine’s rescurer took the phone and started tapping the screen saving his number.
– Call me in case you need help. -the stranger remarked holding out the phone.
– I really don’t know how to pay you back, Daniel. – Katherine replied smiling.
– No worries, love. I’ve done what every true gentleman would do in my place. – he opened an app and got Katherine a cab.
As she was getting inside he bent over smiling – Have a safe trip!
– Thanks for everything! I really appreciate your help. -Katherine replied smiling back.
The taxi set off leaving Katherine’s savior behind.
Chapter 2 Out Of The Blue
– Where to, Miss? -the driver inquired, as soon as the cab started moving.
– 23 Victoria Street, please. -Katherine replied, trying to get comfortable at the back seat.
I assume, Maggie’s house is the only secure place I can possibly stay in now.
Maggie Rivers, an Oxford dweller. She has spent most of her life here. Born into a family of English Literature professors, she’s been keen on literature since early childhood. Comes as no surprise that she made up her mind on following in her parents’ footsteps and entering Oxford in order to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Literature and currently being busy with getting her Master’s Degree in Charles Dickens’ work.
I remember my very first day at university, as if it was yesterday. Feeling a bit confused and puzzled, surrounded by complete strangers. Well, that’s what usually happen to a freshperson. I was thrilled anticipating the very first lecture I had to visit. I remember, entering the auditorium, realizing that this is probably the very hall so many outstanding historical figures walked into, being in an identical situation I found myself at the time. Those were the days!
As I finally located a suitable seat and sat myself down, a chest-nut, blue-eyed girl of my age enquired if the seat next to me was available. We started chatting and that small talk marked the begining of a long-lasting intimate friendship.
Maggie Rivers’ family was quite a well-to-do one so, as long as Richard and Sarah Rivers got retired they found themselves being fed up with all this Oxford hustle and bustle. That’s when they decided to move to the countryside in Scotland, handing their Oxford house down to Maggie, as she was still about to graduate. 23 Victoria Street was the one, where Maggie resided.
As the cab reached it’s final destination it came to a halt.
– The trip has been paid, Miss. Have a nice evening! -the driver wished politely.
– Thanks a lot, same to you! -Katherine thanked him leaving the cab.
It was pretty chilly outside, making Katherine regret wearing this silk black dress again.
As she reached Maggie’s house treshold, Katherine knocked on the door. There was some noise behind the door and then it opened up.
Maggie was standing right in front of Katherine wearing a dressing gown.
– Meg, I’m terribly sorry for disturbing you that late, it’s just… – Katherine stumbled – Something’s happened and you’re the only person I can go to.
– Jesus, Kat, you’re as pale as a ghost! What happened? -Maggie’s face filled with worry.
– Maggie, darling, who’s there?
Is that…
Katherine couldn’t believe her ears, disbelief readble on her face.
– Oh, Kat? What a pleasant surprise! -Peter greeted her. Peter Rhyes, one more university friend. A skilled programmer. -What brings you here at this hour?
– Pete? That’s a surprise! I didn’t know you two were dating? Congratulations! -Katherine answered, her voice full of amazement.
– Well, we were about to tell you. You know, it’s usually hard to find an appropriate moment for such things. -Peter confessed a bit confused.
– Fair enough! You two are masters of surprises.-a light smile touching Katherine’s features.
– Come in, come in. You’re shaking! -Maggie said inviting Katherine inside. – Let me fetch some tea. Make yourself at home. Peter, help Katherine out, would you?
– Come on, Kat. -Peter taking Katherine by her shoulders getting her to the sofa. – I think you two have a lot to talk about, Meg. It’s high time I left.
– Don’t be ridiculous, darling. We have no secrets to keep from friends. – Maggie snorted.
– That’s very kind of you, but to my mind, there are things that should stay between girls.-Peter smiled playfully giving Maggie a soft kiss.
I’ve always appreciated Peter’s sense of tact, no matter what. Maggie is such a lucky person to have him by her side!
– That’s why I love you, dear! You’re such a gentleman! -Maggie praised her boyfriend kissing him back.
Chapter 3 A Disturbing Message
– So, Kat, is there anything I should know? -Maggie enquired with an aprehensive look.
Should I tell her now, or can it wait until the morning. I do have to digest a lot, considering what I’ve been through tonight.
– I suppose, no. I’m really sorry for such a late intrusion, but I suppose it would be reasonable to spare the information for tomorrow. There is still a lot to figure out.
– I see. For the record, you can trust me with whatever it is. You know that, right?
– Of course, Meg. It’s just… It’s been a long evening.
How rude of me to keep secrets from my one and only intimate friend, but freaking her out with all the details of the cafe fight would be even worse.
– I’ll prepare a berth for you. There is this brand new sofa Peter and I purchased a while ago. Such a comfy sleeping place.
– That would be great, Meg. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to repay you.
– Don’t mention it. Aren’t best friends designed to help each other out?
– No arguing.
As soon as the beds were ready, and the two friends had some herbal tea to make their sleep deeper, Katherine decided to finally check out her inbox being extremely agitated. Maggie was already having a deep sleep.
Meg is that rare kind of person who sleeps like a baby. These days it’s something of a superpower.
Katherine felt her hands trembling when opening the laptop. An agitating thought was endeavouring her mind as fast as a lightning during a thunderstorm.
It’s from dad. Goodness gracious, we haven’t seen each other for ages. I realise our relationship has been far from excellent, but let’s hope father hasn’t got himself into all sorts of trouble.
When opening the message Katherine was stroke by the very first lines that got into her sight:
My dearest Kitty, if you’re reading this letter, then I’m afraid I got myself into real trouble, that only you are currently able to get me out of. I’ve been tracked down and spied for the last few days. I’ve made a groundbreaking discovery that might change the British history, and the history of the Tudors precisely, forever!
Oh, father! You’ll never change. Even being in grave danger, you keep using those pretentious phrases…
And this discovery is the very reason I’ve been followed recently. These are dangerous people that will stop at nothing when it comes to treasure. All the information I’ve collected concerning this treasure I have cautiously submitted to one of my most loyal friends (I don’t want any harm coming to you because of this data). Unfortunately, now you’re the only one to solve this mystery. In case you get into trouble, don’t hesitate to contact Daniel Lawrence. He’s one of my best students. You can trust him. He’ll take care of you.