Free Blind Redemption by Violetta Rand Page A

swam several yards, then submerged herself, snorting and choking as she resurfaced. Water dribbled down her chin. Amelia wasn’t as adventurous and stayed close to the shoreline. Kara treaded water as she admired the dark woods across the lake. Nothing pleased her more than being outside. Free to explore, free to do as she wanted without her brothers harassing her. She thought she saw movement, but realized it was nothing more than flickering sunlight and shadows. The pleasure of the moment dominated her senses. Nothing could ruin it.
    As she floated on her back half dozing, the thundering sound of approaching horses shattered her daydream. She twisted around and searched wildly for Amelia who disappeared into the woods. Kara rushed to reach the shore.
    Please . . .
    But before her feet hit land, six riders surrounded Amelia, who was now standing at the edge of the forest. Kara froze. She’d stupidly left her weapons by the horses. Now they had no chance of defending themselves or escaping. Two riders dismounted, striding toward her.
    “Come out of the water,” the largest demanded.
    Unwilling to shame herself by allowing these strangers to see her naked, she crouched in the shallow water. “Turn around first.”
    “If you don’t comply, I’ll pluck you out like a wet rat.” There was nothing friendly about this man. His companions chuckled.
    Silence ensued as everyone seemed to contemplate Kara’s next move. She’d not risk Amelia’s safety by disobeying. But, what if she could swim to the other side of the lake and find help? Without clothing or money? Never. Swallowing her pride, she looked up. The dark features of the man who demanded she come out scared her.
    “Now,” he reminded. “If I wanted to rape you, you’d be on your back by now.”
    She was trying not to overthink things, but failing miserably.
    “ Drit ,” he yelled, then rushed her.
    The moment his boots hit the lake, Kara filled her mouth with water, then shot up, spitting in his face. “Merciless beast.”
    He wiped his cheek, his hot gaze sweeping over her body. She refused to tremble. Animals like him thrived on fear. Without warning, Amelia intervened. She ran to the beach, offering her cloak.
    “Put it on and I’ll rip it off you. Do as I bid, now , and get out of the water.” He glared at Amelia. “You, move.”
    “I have a duty to my mistress.” Amelia jutted her chin.
    “Stay out of my way. Challenge me again and I’ll punish you.” He shoved her to the ground and then grabbed a fistful of Kara’s hair. She struggled to free herself, only to be dragged to land, then into the forest next to her horses. The blanket and food Amelia had laid out was untouched. He pointed at the coverlet. “Sit.”
    Kara obeyed. Fear filled her mind and heart. “Who are you?”
    His dark eyes sparkled like a wildfire. “Erling Solheim, an avenging god, I assure you.”
    “Devils aren’t gods.”
    He slapped her face. “You’ll learn quickly enough that I have no patience for a sharp tongue. Do as I tell you or you’ll be bruised from head to toe before sunset. Understand?”
    Kara nodded in comprehension.
    “Where are your clothes?”
    She pointed; her sword and shield were on the ground nearby. By Odin, she wished she had her sword in her hands.
    “Lying to me about your clothing? You need discipline already. Your gown, where is it?”
    “I dressed as a boy for my protection.” She sucked her cheeks in.
    He gave her a smug smile. “I believe you. You’re Erik the Bald’s daughter.”
    Kara gasped. “How—”
    “The trees have eyes and ears.”
    “And atrocious manners . . .”
    “I’ve watched you train with your brothers in the forest for many months—I admire your perseverance.”
    Her face heated as her gaze rested on Amelia’s pale, concerned face. “You attacked us? Injured my brother and killed one of my father’s guards.”
    “I cannot take credit for that.” Erling waved at his fellow riders. “My men are