Oath (Book 4 of "The Whispers of Rings")

By Catherine LaCroix

In Lord Markov's absence, Josselyn leaves the estate behind in desperation of a brighter future. With her new ally beside her and assistance from a familiar face, they begin to unfurl the mystery behind the Terryn family murder. But what Josselyn finds will change everything she knows, and make her question everything she holds dear.

~~~~~ Excerpt ~~~~~

Cyprus, Isabelle and I lay across my bed side-by-side on our backs. I was positioned between them and took comfort in their warmth. I’d managed to reign in my emotions and steady my breathing. While I traced the designs of the ceiling with my eyes, a fond memory returned to me.

“I remember...one day Jeremi came home from work with six bottles of wine and a deck of playing cards. He set up a table with a huge plate of food and the drinks in this room, made sure Victoria and I were comfortable, and then ordered the servants to leave us be for the night.” I smiled, recalling how excited he’d been.

“What did you do?” Isabelle asked.

“I’m guessing Victoria taught him how to play Finan.” Cyprus replied.

“You’re right, she did.” I nodded. “And Jeremi wanted to bring me in on the game--with two new rules.”

“How do you play normally?” Isabelle asked, toying with a loose strand of my hair.

“Each card is assigned a value, and your end goal is to have the lowest score of everyone.” Cyprus summarized.

“Seems simple enough. What were the new rules?” She looked at me.

“If you win, you drink half of your glass.” I giggled. “And if you empty your glass, you lose an article of clothing.”

“That’s a lot of wine to get through,” Isabelle laughed, “and not very many pieces of clothing.”

“And playing a game that’s extremely in Victoria’s favor.” Cyprus joined her. “We played it all the time in Lorelyn.”

“Learning was easy, mastering it was harder, and I’m certain they let me win more than a few times. We spent the entire night in here, laughing and draining more wine than I think I’ve ever consumed in my life.” I remembered we’d all awoken on the floor the next morning, haphazardly covered in the blankets from my bed. Not one of us remembered how we had finished the night. But...that part never mattered. I just wanted to be near them always.

“Josselyn, tell me,” Isabelle whispered, “what is it like...to be a Ring?”

“Isabelle...? Are you sure?” I turned toward her, only to have her lips meet mine.

“Yes. Show me,” she murmured against my mouth, “both of you.”

• Language: English
• Publisher: Boruma Publishing, LLC
• Release date: Oct 3, 2016
• ISBN: 9781370302246

Catherine LaCroix

After spending time as a musician, caterer and wine connoisseur, I've returned to my true love in life- the written word. I adore painting worlds filled with lush environments, deep characters and sensual romance. Whether it's hundreds of years in the future, or a thousand years in the past, I love to take my readers on fantastic journeys that will leave them begging for more.

Book preview

Book Four of The Whispers of Rings

Oath

Written by Catherine LaCroix

Artwork by Robert Treherne

Other Books in this Series:

Whisper

Promise

Echo

Copyright 2016 Catherine LaCroix

-- All Characters Depicted are Over 18 --

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I

The journey to Anastas from Valford was typically a simple one despite its length. The hills of Valford tapered off into the Verdant Thicket about an hour from the city. The trees were so old and packed together, that cutting them down to build shops or taverns would cost more than what little foot traffic the path saw. Unfortunately, when attempted on little to no sleep, not having the option of a place to stay made the trip far more difficult.

I’m sorry, Isabelle. I muttered for the fifth time as we led our horses through the thick bushes and trees. My foot slid on a stone that escaped my vision and I nearly lost my balance.

Josselyn, be careful! She called from behind me, more concern than I deserved in her tone. I felt like such a fool. It’s alright, I could use a rest, too. As you said we’re halfway there, a little sleep would do us both some good.

I stopped in a small, grassy