her heart for him. Whenever their gazes met, at dinner for instance, he could see a tenderness that he felt was more than just comradeship or respect for his rank. Bizarrely, and he could scarcely even admit it to himself, his desire for her was part of what pushed him obsessively towards the peace talks. He could never factor it into his calculations but there were many things that would change if the fighting ceased: one of the most important to him would be a more stable environment in which he could court her.
But as Hector held his arm across the door in front of Louisa that day the look she gave him filled him with dread for their relationship. ‘Don’t go, not like this,’ he begged.
‘I don’t have a choice, Hector,’ she said softly. ‘I’m Sebastian’s daughter. There’s still a choice for you, though.’
Hector had hoped deep down that she did not agree completely with her father and was merely being supportive out of family loyalty. He was shocked at how badly he had misjudged her. He lowered his arm and she left.
Hector listened to Louisa climb onto her horse and ride away. He felt a sudden chill.
The rhythmic sound of footsteps heading towards the hut brought him out of his reverie. Hector walked to the other end of the hut to await his next visitor.
Ventura stood in the doorway, wearing an all-knowing smirk. He was a short man, compact compared with Hector, sophisticated, well groomed and wearing a full-length tailored raincoat that tastefully matched the expensive riding suit beneath. His black moustache was a thin line in a 1930s style and he had an air of confidence and self-importance that came from his membership of the upper class. He was accompanied by several thuggish armed men, also in civilian clothes, who remained outside as he stepped into the hut and closed the door behind him.
‘I can’t say I’m inspired with confidence by that meeting,’ Ventura said, looking with distaste around the simple dwelling.
‘When Sebastian realises he is isolated he will reassess the situation,’ Hector said flatly.
‘I wonder if you know Sebastian as well as you think you do. You appear to have misjudged his daughter somewhat.’
Hector felt his anger rise but choked it back even though he could not hide it completely from his expression. ‘I have control of the council. That is the important thing.’
Ventura seemed pleased with his ability to rile Hector easily. ‘I’m not so sure. As long as Sebastian commands his brigade he remains a threat. He has a gift for bringing men round to his way of thinking.’
‘You talk as if you and I are on the same side. We are not, Ventura. Just remember that.’
‘Perhaps. But we all have to change - make compromises - if we are to achieve an understanding. That includes your boss Neravista. I don’t want peace at any price. Just remember that.’
‘Of course. And Neravista understands that too. But we can’t wait on your reassurances for ever. The lull in our military activities is purely to give you the time to take control. We are prepared to renew our offensive - and vigorously - if you fail. And what about these new weapons that Sebastian has just received? They do not help matters. Some of my colleagues think you are merely playing for time in order to consolidate and rearm.’
‘The arrival of the weapons at Sebastian’s camp is your fault as much as anyone’s. The Americans know our position but you were too slow in making them aware of yours.’
‘They know it now. But they have the luxury of being in a position to play all sides until they have what they want. We believe we can satisfy their demands.’
‘If Sebastian can be made to change his mind the weapons will no longer be a factor.’
‘We talk in circles, Hector. It all comes down to one man. The question is, can you handle him? If you can’t we will have to find someone who can.’
The brigade leader flashed him a look. ‘Don’t toy with me, Ventura. And don’t try to go behind me. I am the one you deal with now. And I decide how to deal with Sebastian, and killing him is not an option. Defy me on that and you can suffer the consequences.’
‘We’re not the only ones who want Sebastian out of the way. The rebel movement has never been as fragmented as it is now,