Overruled by Fate by Leila Snow

Author:Leila Snow [Snow, Leila]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2018-02-21T22:00:00+00:00

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Aileth was white as a new snow when she entered her uncle's solar and noticed Nathaniel leaning against the mantle. He straightened, prepared to catch her should she fall into a swoon. She looked very much like she might. But he was reminded of her tenacity when she straightened her shoulders and met Lord Endle's direct gaze.

"You wanted to see me, Uncle?" she asked in her soft voice.

"Indeed, my dear," he answered. "You see, I have had rather an unexpected visit today from Sir Nathaniel. Have you any idea what he might have wanted to discuss with me?"

"Nay, my Lord," she said, hanging her head. Nathaniel thought he could see the glimmer of tears in her eyes and his guilt chewed at his soul.

"He has asked for your hand, child," Lord Endle answered kindly. "There is no need for such a bleak countenance. It is an honour to have such an esteemed knight regard you so highly."

Her head shot up and she turned a disbelieving look towards Nathaniel.

"Aye," her uncle chuckled. "I see that Sir Nathaniel was correct when he said he had reason to believe his feelings were reciprocated."

"His feelings?" Aileth asked incredulously, her mild, brown eyes searching Nathaniel's for answers.

"He has professed a deep affection for you."

Her eyes widened, still searching his. Then she remembered how deeply he loved another, and shook her head.

Nathaniel quickly spoke up. "I beg you to consider all the circumstances before you decline my genuine offer."

Aileth had thought of little else but circumstances and consequences since she had left Nathaniel's bed. As such, she knew that her choices were few. She could not return to the convent with a clean heart. Yet, the fact still remained that the woman he loved was married to another. Though perhaps, maybe, he could find love and a peace with her.

She looked back to Lord Endle. "Do you ask my blessing, Uncle?"

"Aye, Aileth, I do," he assured her. "You have been a good and sweet child. I have long viewed you as my own. Your happiness is of utmost importance."

"But the convent..." she murmured. "You have already given them a dowry which they can ill-afford to repay."

"Do not concern yourself," her uncle comforted her. "I will not ask the convent for its return. So what say you?"

"I have a great love and affection for Sir Nathaniel," she confided. "It would be an honour and my greatest joy to be his wife."

"Very well then!" Lord Endle exclaimed happily. "That is settled. Of course, we must keep the accord concealed until I have had time to petition the king when we arrive to court. I do not foresee any argument, but as you are a noblewoman and Sir Nathaniel is not, the possibility exists." He continued, "Pending royal approval, I have decided to gift you the estate that borders Marbourne to the east, Cullenthorpe. It is a handsome estate and the lands are bounteous."

"Nay, my Lord," Nathaniel blurted out. "I could not accept. I am not worthy of such a dispensation.

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