Her Noble Lords by Ashe Barker

Author:Ashe Barker [Barker, Ashe]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Publisher: Stormy Night Publications
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

* * *

I am wearing a soft blue gown, the most beautiful garment I have ever been able to call my own. I do not include any of Lady Eleanor’s apparel in that, of course, for I did not own those items. But this lovely dress is mine alone, fashioned in a matter of mere hours by Agnes. It is made of fine imported silk and trimmed with ribbons in a deeper hue. It is my wedding dress, worn to celebrate this truly remarkable day.

I am to become Lady Linnet, countess of Egremont.

I approach the entrance to the small family chapel on the arm of Piers. I am aware that Ralf and the priest await us before the altar, while others from the household are clustered in the half dozen or so rows of pews. All are ready to smile and rejoice on this happy and momentous occasion. My own feelings are less simple.

I do desire this marriage and all that will be entailed. I understand what the contract is which I will be entering into, both in public and privately. I am ready to do my utmost to ensure it succeeds. But I cannot help being nervous. Marriage is always a huge step, especially for a woman but for me, on this occasion, it is truly momentous. I shall have two husbands. Two noble lords to please, to serve, to obey. Either man alone would be more than enough for me but I am to have both. Together.

Dear Lord, preserve me.

Piers slows our progress and halts. He turns to me and frames my face in one of his hands. “Remember, Linnet, although Ralf will stand beside you before God, I am at your side, too. Your vows to me will be made in silence, as will mine to you. But we are bound by those vows. All three of us, bound to each other for all time. You understand this?”

“I do, my lord.”

He smiles at me. “Then let us proceed, little maid.”

The ceremony passes in a blur. In truth, Father Peter does not draw the proceedings out unduly. I murmur my responses, while Ralf speaks his in a loud, clear tone for all to witness. Piers stands behind us, close enough that I hear his breathing. I imagine his own rich voice enunciating the vows and respond to him, too, in my mind. It is peculiar, yet as natural as my own shallow breaths.

In minutes it is over, the formalities concluded. Father Peter announces us to be man and wife and Ralf lowers his face to mine. His kiss is warm, passionate, hinting at the pleasures to come. He breaks the kiss to meet Piers’ eyes.

“Brother, we have a new countess. Please welcome her to the family.”

“My pleasure.” Ralf steps back as Piers moves to fill my vision. “You have captured all our hearts, my lady.” He brushes my lips with his, the kiss chaste and very proper for the benefit off those looking on and calling their congratulations to us but it lacks nothing in raw, sensuous promise.

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