Royce nodded. "Aye. But you didn't tell me she carries Welsh blood."
Edward laughed. "I didn't want to prejudice you against her before... But judging from the way you're looking at her now, though, I see it doesn't matter. You're smitten."
"I am not. She's a disobedient hellion. 'Twill take some time to train the rebelliousness from her. Must be the Welsh bloodline."
Edward's grin turned sly and knowing. "I trust you've already begun her instruction."
Royce returned the grin. "Aye. She'll learn."
Gillian's gaze landed on him and he stood. Why did he feel this sudden urge to soothe her agitation? He strode over to her.
"What troubles you?"
She shook her head. "Nothing. I just... I must see to the meal and ensure all is in readiness. The queen and her ladies are in their chambers until we summon them."
"Did something happen while you were with Eleanor?"
"Nay." She paused, her fingers twisting before her. "I... I've never been presented at court, and I... I hope all is well."
He understood. She had doubts about her worth in the eyes of her king and queen. Any would. He resisted the urge to pull her near.
"It is. You've done well."
"Thank you."
Her hoarse whisper once again betrayed her anxiety.He took her hand, aware Edward watched them from across the room. He kept his voice low.
"The king is pleased with Lyndon. You have nothing to fear."
Her eyes searched his and he wondered if she detected his pride in her. For she had done well with her preparations. As he would have expected from his wife. Somehow, though, this slip of a girl stirred so many more reasons for his satisfaction.
"And you, my lord? Are you pleased as well?"
A hopeful glint brightened her eyes. He didn't even try to hold back his smile.
"Aye. I am well-pleased."
A hint of pink returned to her cheeks and the corners of her mouth curled.
"Thank you."
He squeezed her hand and released her. "Go tend your tasks and tell us when you are ready."
She nodded and strode across the hall, to the kitchens behind the keep. He watched her as she made her way, admiring the soft sway of her hips and the way her ebony hair fell in a fat braid down her back. He imagined wrapping that braid around his wrist as he drew her mouth to his cock. The flesh stirred and hardened. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Later. For now, he must finish with Edward before taking the king to his chambers to rest before the meal.
Chapter Nine
Satisfied with how well the feast preparation progressed, Gillian made her way to the barracks. Several of her husband's men lingered. She prayed for their silence about her presence. The last thing she needed was to give Royce further reason to distrust her. But she had to see Simon. The only acceptable resolution to the problem was to reveal the truth of his parentage.
She knocked on the door, relieved when her brother opened it. His brow furrowed.
"Gilly, what's wrong?"
"We must talk. Come, where none can see us."
He followed her to a spot near the bailey walls, hidden behind one of the unused outer buildings. She turned to give him a great hug.
"I've missed you." She sighed, tears burning her eyes.
