Page 119 of The Saxon Lord's Unwanted Bride
“I wish to see my husband.”
“I’ll take you to him.”
“No,” she cried, shame warming her face, “I can go alone.”
He shook his head. “I cannot let you go alone,” he said. “I’ve sworn to protect you.”
He would not be denied, and she set off toward Harald’s chamber, the hefty Saxon’s footsteps echoing behind her. Now, not only did she risk rejection—but Wulfstan would be witness to it.
They reached the chamber and Wulfstan hammered on the door.
A voice uttered a curse, then footsteps approached. The door opened to reveal Harald’s face, sleepy at first, then it grew alert, and tightened with anger.
“Wulfstan—why aren’t you at your place!”
“My Lord...”
“I told you not to leave her alone—I’ll have you horsewhipped for this! Why the fuck can’t you…”
“Husband?”
Eloise stepped aside and Harald’s eyes focused on her, the fear and anger in their expression, morphing into relief.
“Eloise! What do you want?”
“I’ve come to speak with you.”
“Can’t it wait until morning?”
“No my Lord.”
“Very well.” Harald stepped aside to let her in. “Wulfstan, wait outside this door, until I call for you.”
“No, Harald,” Eloise said. “Let him rest tonight.” She placed a hand on Wulfstan’s arm and looked into his eyes, issuing a silent plea. Understanding crossed his expression and he curled his lip into a knowing smile.
“As my lady wishes.”
“Wulfstan, you do asIsay,” Harald growled. “Your duty is to protect the lady Eloise.”
The big Saxon’s smile broadened. “She’ll be protected well enough tonight, my lord.”
Before Harald could object, Eloise moved into the chamber. Trembling, she sat on the bed, before her legs gave way beneath her.
Harald closed the door. “Why have you come, Eloise?” he asked.
“I wish to feel safe.”
“Don’t you understand that’s why Wulfstan watches over you at night?”
“I have no wish to feel safe with Wulfstan.”
“I don’t understand,” he said. “He’s a fine warrior, and a good man.” Eyeing her warily, he sat on the opposite end of the bed.
She placed her hand between them, on the bedfur—not daring to move closer. She closed her eyes, willing him to touch her. The loss of sight heightened her other senses and Harald’s breathing broke the silence—tense, shallow breaths. He was as uncertain as she.
“My lord,” she said, “there is only one man in the world I wish to feel safe with—and that isyou.”
She opened her eyes and moved towards him, waiting.
