LordoftheHunt by Anonymous Author

Author:Anonymous Author
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub
Publisher: Ellora's Cave Publishing Inc
Published: 2013-05-14T19:00:00+00:00

Chapter Eighteen

Joan took her time slicing bread for her supper. Nat was not about. It worried her that he might still be out looking for the lymer in the dismal weather. When the rain eased, she would go back out herself no matter what hour it was.

“Joan?” Oswald stepped into the cottage without waiting for permission. “Are you alone?” Water ran off his mantle to drip on the rushes.

She nodded, stepping closer to the hearth and keeping the knife in her hand.

“Your father asked me to tell you he is going out with with some of his men after more venison. The bishop ordered more for the feast after the tournament.”

“More?”

“Aye. As if there was not already enough.” He sat at the table.

“What do you want?” She placed the knife on the mantle and crossed her arms over her chest. Her nipples felt sore against the linen of her gown. She wanted nothing more than to go lie on her pallet and think of Adam.

Oswald licked his lips and smoothed his hair back. “I saw you with Quintin.”

“And?” Had Oswald read her thoughts?

“And our lady might object to what I saw.”

Joan took a deep breath. “What is it you want?”

“I want to warn you. I would hate to think our lady would dismiss you for your attentions to one of her suitors.”

His words paralleled some of her own thoughts. “Thank you for the warning. Now, I have much to do.”

He didn’t rise. He gripped his hands tightly together as if praying. “I much admire you,” he said softly. “The way you handle the hounds, a hunt.”

Her throat went tight.

“I hope you understand this business between my Lord Roger and Nat, is just that—their business—not ours.”

She waited. Did he want more money?

“We’ve had the same upbringing, you and I. We’d do well together.”

“Together?” She forced the word out.

“I’d like to ask your father for your hand.”

Joan felt as if someone had struck her in the stomach. “Don’t.” The word came out in rush.

Oswald got to his feet and held up one hand. “There’s no need for hasty answers. Think on my offer.”

“I don’t intend to leave Ravenswood or Nat. Ever.”

He bobbed his head like a wading bird. “If Lady Mathilda chooses my Lord Roger, you won’t need to, nor will Nat. He can serve as my right hand. And I’ve spoken to de Coucy. He’s willing to make me his hunt master if favor smiles on him. I’ll talk to the other suitors as well, if you like.”

“You’ve discussed this with others?”

“Aye.” He smiled. “I want everyone to know how much I think of you.” He bowed and went to the door. “Oh, and the bishop heard Nat lost a valuable dog. He’s not pleased. It might be best to keep your father out of the bishop’s sight.”

Joan watched Oswald dart across the slippery cobbles to the hall. The rain pelted the stones at the cottage entrance, splashing her hem and bare feet. Behind her, water from the leak pinged into the metal pot set out to catch it.

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