“And his mother Hildegarde will undoubtedly welcome yourcondolences.”
“Hismother?”
“She is here,Annelise.”
Annelise’s heart leaped for fear that Rolfe’s mother might not approve ofher.
“What is it?” Tulley demanded, his gaze as shrewd asever.
“I hope the lady does not take affront that I dared to wed her son without herpermission.”
“I shall ensure that she does not.” Tulley eyed her. “In fact, we should make the most of this opportunity to see your vows exchanged again beforewitnesses.”
“Mylord?”
Tulley crossed the chamber with purpose, claiming Annelise’s elbow. “Come along, Annelise. Bertrand will summon the priest and the hall is festive. We shall see those vows of yours exchanged again this very night and duly celebrated. I want none to question the alliance your spouse and I willmake.”
Annelise could scarce believe her good fortune. How could she have doubted that all would come right in the end? Tulley escorted her into the great hall and she saw Rolfe on the far side, with an older noblewoman. She had dark hair and as Annelise stepped closer, she saw that the woman had eyes just like Rolfe’s. One was blue and one silver-gray.
Would their children have such eyes? She could not wait to know forcertain.
“Rolfe! We are to be wed this very night!” Annelise ran across the great hall and he swung her into his arms with agrin.
“Wearewed, my Annelise,” he corrected and punctuated his words with a kiss. “And we shall stay that wayforevermore.”
Indeed, Annelise could not have hoped for greater promise thanthat.
