The Protector's Promise by Cecelia Mecca

Author:Cecelia Mecca [Mecca, Cecelia]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Medieval
Published: 2018-09-12T16:00:00+00:00

WHILE HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN PREPARING for one of the most important battles of his life, Court found himself pacing the ramparts of the castle Richard had entrusted to him so many years ago. Even a brutal training session could not get visions of him and Marion together out of his mind.

So many strange things had happened to him over the last few weeks, from the appearance of the mark to the pull of the stone. But none had taken him more by surprise than his feelings for Marion.

It was more than desire. He’d known that from the moment she walked into the great hall that morning. The sight of her had nearly poleaxed him in the gut.

Forget Marion. Victory is within reach.

Almain had promised him Halbury Castle just to the east of Camburg. Moreover, he’d hinted that he would arrange an advantageous match for Court once he completed this mission.

Forcing his mind back to the upcoming battle, Court envisioned Moordon Castle, an ancient keep once held by the English. The castle had fallen into disrepair after a raid more than ten years ago, which had forced the English owners back south. He knew not who currently held it—it could be any number of Scottish nobles and clan chiefs, from MacAdder to Douglas as the new owners. It hardly mattered. His scouts had confirmed the king’s regent’s assessment of the situation. Moordon existed on a skeleton staff, and its strategic location was ideal for the raids that may be necessary if—or when—war broke out once again along the borders.

And yet . . . he found himself thinking of what Marion had said. Sara and Geoffrey certainly wouldn’t approve of his actions. And such a measure was as likely to cause a war as to stave one off. And while once appealing, the thought of a titled bride no longer appealed.

Do not be foolish.

Defying the king’s regent, losing a potential stronghold . . . he simply could not do it.

The sun had set long ago, but Court could not bring himself to attend the evening meal. He should not force Marion to eat among strangers, but seeing her again in that shape-hugging gown, the epitome of nobility and grace . . .

Skipping the meal was the right thing, for both their sakes.

Court descended the stone stairwell and strode through the square courtyard lit only by torches along each outside wall. He navigated the large well in the center of it all and made his way into the main keep.

Damn. The hall was still filled with retainers and servants alike. Avoiding the entranceway, he made his way along a long corridor and nodded to the guard at the top of a winding stairwell that led to the lord’s chambers. Was he a coward for evading her? Aye, but a coward who knew his own weaknesses, and Marion was one of them.

He pushed open the door of the chamber and was about to pull it closed behind him when a voice stopped him.

“Court?”

Oh God, no.

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