Conquering Passion by Anna Markland

Author:Anna Markland [Markland, Anna]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Publisher: BleuBelle Press
Published: 2011-11-27T08:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

“The Saxons are to endure the unspeakable humiliation of seeing the Conqueror crowned on the anniversary of Christ's birth,” Ram remarked, as he and his wife and brothers were breaking their fast before the departure for the coast. “William has a strong feeling for form and law and he’s resolved to let no ceremony pass that might strengthen his claim to be regarded as King of the English.”

He turned to his brothers. “So we’re agreed? You’ll take care of things here and at Belisle and Domfort. I imagine you’ve had enough of England after Hastings.”

Both men agreed readily.

Mabelle smiled timidly at Ram. “I can tell you’re honoured by the invitation from William, and nothing will keep you away. From the little you’ve told me, you played a large part in ensuring the victory.”

He’d shared something of the details of the battle, though he’d wisely decided not to tell her about his near decapitation. “Are you sure you want to accompany me?” he ventured, not knowing what he would do if she said she would prefer not to. She’d never travelled by ship before.

“Will it be safe?”

“It’s a short voyage, and, if we’re careful to pick the right tides, you’ll be safe with me. But the castle at Ellesmere—it’s not like Montbryce—we can’t live in it yet.”

Why did he feel a compulsion to take her with him? It would be a difficult and dangerous life, perhaps for years, and there would be a lot of travelling back and forth to Normandie.

“I don’t want to be left behind, Ram.”

They travelled to the coast. Decorum dictated she ride her mare side saddle.

“My back feels as if it’s broken,” Mabelle lamented to Ram. “It would be more comfortable riding behind you on Fortis. Then at least I could feel your warmth. I’m cold.”

He looked at her with a teasing smile and reined in his horse. Perhaps having a wife who had spirit wasn’t such a bad thing? “I too would enjoy your riding behind me, pressing your beautiful breasts against my back.”

Soon she was mounted behind him, and they made better progress. He reached behind and patted her thigh. “I now see the advantage for me of your riding astride.”

The winds were with them and they took ship for the English coast. She weathered the crossing well, but Ram was seasick from the moment they cast off. He’d told her about his ailment. “I’m sorry. I did warn you. When I think of the last time I sailed to England, with William, it seems a lifetime ago. I didn’t know if I would ever see you again.”

Mabelle huddled closer to him. “You thought of me?”

Another bout of retching prevented his response.

She wiped his brow. “I’m not a good wife. I have no idea how to help your malady.”

“Nothing can be done about it, Mabelle. Believe me. Nothing helps. I have to stay outside, but if you’re cold, you should seek shelter in the tent they rigged for you.”

“Non, I love the tang of the salty breeze on my face, and I would rather be with you.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.