Page 14 of Promise of a Knight
“I am a lady. Ladies are never devious.”
Alaric laughed. “Well, little mischief maker, allow me to be the one to enlighten you and welcome you to court—home of scheming ladies and gentleman.”
“Are ye included in that group?”
“Touché.” Alaric grinned, patting her hand where it rested on his forearm. “I am a knight of His Majesty, King Henry of England’s realm. I never scheme, unless it is to defeat my enemy.”
“And what would ye consider me? Before the treaty was signed, and yer princess was betrothed to my king, we were enemies. Does a piece of parchment truly change all that much? Ages and ages of anger?” Her eyes hooded and he had the distinct idea she was referring to something else. Something in her own past. “Would ye scheme with me, sir?”
For a clumsy imp, Alexandra was remarkably astute. Another reason why he felt so drawn to her.
“I can promise, my lady Alexandra, you will have nothing to fear from me. No schemes. No treachery.” He stopped walking and faced her. “Unless you go against the treaty. I am duty-bound to honor the agreement and to protect my princess.”
The way her throat bobbed, he was certain he’d touched on something. What was the lady doing by the princess’ chamber door? What could she have wanted? What was she thinking?
Alaric studied her face, seeing her eyes hood once more. Alexandra didn’t want to confide in him just yet. Or perhaps ever. And he could understand that. But, though he understood, it did not mean he agreed.
“Tell me what troubles you,” he urged.
She shook her head, and flashed him a pretty smile. “’Tis nothing. Just thinking about all the things at court I’m not yet used to.”
“Hmm,” Alaric mused. “I am happy to be your guide.”
She beamed up at him. “A friend is just what I need, but I’m afraid Lady Home would not approve of me being friends with a knight.”
Alaric shrugged. “As you said, Lady Home does not seem to notice much.”
Alexandra shook her head, a smile touching her lips once more. “And as I said,yeare a rogue.”
Alaric bowed low to her. “I aim to serve, my lady.”
“Promise ye’ll not mention our…”
“Kiss?” he asked.
She nodded, biting her lip. “I’ve only just arrived at court, and while I know I shouldn’t have been so brazen—”
Alaric pressed a finger to her lips, gritting his teeth at the softness and warmth. “I promise, your secret is safe with me.”
And with that, he marched her back to the grand feast, just in time to fall in line with the princess and her ladies as they left the festivities—and for him to enjoy a stiff drink without having to watch her across the room, though he knew he’d be plagued by her kiss for days.
