Betrayed Hearts
by
Elizabeth Henshall

DID YOU PURCHASE THIS BOOK WITHOUT A COVER?

If you did. you should be aware it is stolen property as it was reported
tolsold and destroyed by a retailer. Neither the Author nor the publisher
has received any payment for this book.

All the characters in this book have no extstence outside the imagination of
the author, and have no relation whatsoever to anyone bearing the same name
or names. They are not even distantly inspired by any individual known or
unknown fo-the author, and all the incidents are pure invention.

All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in pan in
any form. This edition is published by arrangement with Harlequin
Enterprises H B. V. The text of this publication or any part thereof may
not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or
mechanical, including photocopying, recording, storage in an information
retrieval system. or otherwise, without the written permission of the
publisher.

This book is sold sub leer to the condition that it shall not~ by way of
trade or otherwise, be lent, resold, hired out or otherwise circulated
without the prior consent of the publisher in any form of binding or cover
other than that in which a is published and without a similar condition
including this condition being imposed on the, subsequent purchaser.

MILLS & BOON, the Ro~e Device and LEGACY OF LOVE are trademarks of the
publisher. Harlequin Mills & Boon Limited, Eton House, 18-24 Paradise Road,
Richmond, Surrey TW9 I SR

ISBN 0 263 79875 5

Set in 10 on 12 pt Linotron Times 04-9610-79729 Typeset in Great Britain by
Centracet, Cambridge Printed in Great Britain by BPC Paperbacks Ltd

CHAPTER ONE.

The thin rope binding her. wrists cut into her as Ghislaine struggled
desperately to get free. The destrier beneath her snorted with what
sounded alarmingly like disgust, and she hoped that the huge war-horse
would not take her doomed movements amiss.

"If you do not have the wits to stay still, wench, then you will find my
temper' far less amenable than the horse's," growled her captor.

Ghislaine narrowed her eyes in fury and would have answered that threat
with the contempt it deserved, but unfortunately her mouth had been
gagged with a foul rag that smelled as if it had come from the midden.

Her guard's fingers pressed painfully into her arms as he pulled her
back against his chest. The rivets of his protective leather hauberk
gouged through her clothing. She was left with no option other than to
remain where she was. If she tried to sit up without touching him, she
risked being trapped tightly by two very muscular thighs, Opting for the
lesser evil and pain Ghislaine sank reluctantly back against her foe.

The covering over her head was stifling and she wondered honestly just
how much longer she could endure being trussed up like a sack of grain,
pummelled about on a horse and ripped to shreds by twine, without being
sick. It seemed like hours since she had breathed fresh air.

The heartbeat of the man behind her thudded loudly in her ear and she
whispered a desperate appeal to heaven to arrange for it to stop.
Nothing terrible or messy, she suggested quickly.

Just to have it stop. Father Thomas had warned her on many o~casions of
the dangers of malicious prayers but Ghislaine was convinced that, just
once, God might grant her this small wish, After all, she had done
nothing to deserve such treatment.

Well, she amended hastily, at least she had not deserved to be kidnapped
by a bunch of marauding outlaws. Her crime was merely to have ventured
further than she should from her manor. And, of course, had she heeded
Edwin's warning in the first place, she would not be in this predicament
at all.

The morning had been crisp and dry, promising to be the most clement day
they had seen this February. Ghislaine, fed up with being inside the
manor after a long, wet winter, had saddled her horse and set off, bow
in hand, to see if she could shoot some game. The long-suffering Edwin
had reluctantly followed his headstrong mistress, warning her repeatedly
that outlaws had' been spotted in the forest nearby.

She had, of course chosen to ignore him. Since she was hunting the Earl
of Chester's game to give to the villagers, God, she was sure, would not
interfere. After' all, it had not been the villagers who had caused the
murrain that had devastated the cattle herds. No one else, least of all
the Earl, would provide them with other food.

It had not been until she reached the border that divided her land from
the Earl's that Ghislaine had begun to feel uneasy~-Even then, she had
not heeded her own instincts. Disaster 'had struck whilst she had.

been patiently stalking a deer. Just as she had b, about to loose an
arrow, a large hand had clamped o her mouth and dragged her back towards
the cove~ the trees.

Instinctively she had bitten hard and kicked b~ wards, causing her
assailant to curse loudly be: yanking her up into the air and throwing
sometl dark over her head. Within seconds her wrists mouth had been
bound and she had been dum unceremoniously into the saddle of a large
horse. captor had issued a few gruff orders and, since tl had barely
uttered a word.

At first she had remained paralysed with fear, daring to move in case
she incurred the wrath of man behind her. When she had realised that she
not going to die immediately, Ghislaine had com the conclusio ri that
she was being taken for some o purpose."

It was common enough in such 'a lawless county young heiresses to be
held captive and married for't lands, although Ghislaine found it hard
to believe in case. Aye, she had lands and a manor, but they ~ small
compared to most.

Nor did she look much the lady of the manor.

Mostly Ghislaine resembled of the peasants, and her captor would have to
be shrewd to have known who she was.

It was a moment before she realised that the h, had at last come to a
halt.

None too gently, Ghisl: was pulled down from the saddle and set on her
Her eyes blinked rapidly when the covering was ym from her head.

"If you have any desire to survive the hour, girl, will not utter a
word," a deep voice growled in her Swirling round unsteadily, Ghislaine
stared at the man who towered above her. He was tall, very tall, and
swathed in a filthy cloak and stained leather hauberk. His thick black
hair hung around his shoulders and cold, ice-blue eyes impaled her.
Danger seeped from the very depths of his black soul, and in an instant,
Ghislaine knew that he was capable 0f murder.

Satisfied that his captive would not move, he pulled away the gag along
with several clumps of her long hair. Her shriek of pain brought his
hand over her mouth and she was pulled roughly into his chest once more.

"Hell's teeth, girl," he hissed furiously.

"Do you want to die?"

Ghislaine toyed with the idea of biting his hand again but decided
against. it when she caught sight of the knife close to her throat.

When she finally shook her head, he sent her sprawling to the ground.

Indignantly, Ghislaine rose as gracefully as her mud-covered cloak would
allow and fixed him with a look of burning hatred.

"Have you always possessed such natural charm," she spat, her dark eyes
flashing, 'or are you merely practising on me?" Tossing her wild,
red-gold hair over her shoulder, Ghislaine lifted her chin defiantly and
waited for the death blow. If he was going to kill her, she would prefer
it to be quick.

His eyes blazed, but instead of hurling the knife at her as she had
expected, he turned to a blond-haired man standing a few yards away.

"Are you sure it's her?" he ground out~ the muscles in his jaw rigid
with control.

When the blond man nodded, her captor rounded on her once more.

"So, Lady~ de Launay, you do not value your life overmuch?

He knew her name so it was clear that this had been planned. Closing her
eyes in fear, Ghislaine could not even begin to think why he had taken
her.

"Oh, but I fear you have made a mistake," she began, her eyes widening.

"I am Lad~ de Launay's maid. Effie."

His eyes narrowed as he assessed her appearance. "Effie is small, plump~
blonde and," he added with grim conviction, 'pretty. You are none of
those.

"

The words were a deliberate attempt to upset her, but Ghislaine fixed
him with a smile.

"I am sure that ..."

He advanced on her and grabbed her chin between his fingers interrupting
her explanation most effectively.

"And I am sure that unless you co-operate, lady, your handsome
complanion over there will be meeting his maker earlier than he
expected."

Ghislaine swivelled her eyes in the direction 'he nodded to and caught
sight of Edwin, his long, thin frame bound and trussed between several
armed men.

Her eyes returned to her assailant. Pulling her chin from l~is fingers,
Ghislaine glared at him.

"Very well," she replied flatly.

"What do you want?"

"I want you to behave like a lady, if that is possible." His stinging
sarcasm caused her to raise no more than an auburn brow in response.

"We travel on to Chester and my men and'i wish to enter the city as
unobtrusively as possible."

None of this made sense.

"Why?" she demanded curiously.

"Because I have a desire to speak with the Earl of Chester, and by
bringing him one of his wards I believe it may help him to view my cause
in a more positive light."

So, she was to be a hostage.

"And if I do not cooperate, you will kill Edwin," she concluded.

The dark-haired outlaw stared at her pounds r a moment be~ fore nodding.

"I hope you remember that, Lady de Launay," he warned ominously before
turning back to the small army of men waiting some yards away.

Despite her brave words, Ghislaine was terrified. Edwin's life depended
on her co-operation, but she was not at all sure that the Earl of
Chester would look favourably on anyone using her as a hostage. Her
tendency to poach his game had angered him greatly, and were it not for
the fact that her father had been one of his most loyal and trustworthy
vassals, Ghislaine did not doubt for a moment that she. woum have been
confined to the abbey months ago: Trapping her bottom lip between her
teeth, she looked over at Edwin.

Her father was no longer alive and their fate now depended. on a greedy
man who had never bothered to hide his dislike of her.

They reached the pink sandstone walls of Chester lake in the afternoon
and Ghislaine heaved a sigh tinged with relief and apprehension. Having
had several horns to debate the matter, she fervently hoped that the
Earl of Chester would save her from this ordeal, but remained uncertain.
Nagging doubts crowded her mind. He was her guardian, despite their
mutual dis-like~, but he was not averse to conniving with base outlaws
if it meant filling his purse.

Her captor and his blond companion left the others with Edwin in the
castle bailey, and accompanied her silently to the great hall. They
stopped outside the heavy wooden door, and she barely had time to shake
the dust from her dishevelled tunic before it was heaved open. The soft
strumming of a lute and raucous laughter melted away as they entered the
long, narrow hall which was lit by wall torches and a myriad hissing wax
candles.

A huge fire blazed at the far end of the hall and around it clustered
five or six of the Earl's favoured barons and some women Ghislaine had
never seen before. From the tone of the laughter and the way the women
were dressed Ghislaine suspected they were not ladies. The Earl was
well-known for his lechery.

The sheer opulence of the place never failed to reduce Ghislaine to awe
struck silence. Shadows caught in the candlelight danced on the crimson
and gold wall-hangings, lending the room an air of other-worldliness
that was far removed from her daily life. It also stank like the midden
and-Ghislaine held her breath as the stench hit her for the first time.

Anxious to put an end to this frightening ordeal, Ghi. slaine picked her
way carefully' through the filthy floor rushes towards the fa?

end of the half where the Earl was slouched in a large wooden chair, his
huge bulk instantly recognisable. Indolently he scratched the ears of a
hound sprawled at his feet.

Silence echoed around the 'tapestry-hung walls as Ghislaine and her two
companions faced her guardian. His barons and their consorts whispered
quietly and listened whilst she awaited her fate in the suffocating
gloom.

The bleary blue eyes of Hugh d'avranches, Earl of Chester, slid over the
three newcomers and then returned once more to the tempting dishes
awaiting his pleasure. His puffy white fingers trailed across two
platters before his full lips twitched in almost salacious anticipation
of the succulent viands.

To the Welsh, Hugh d'avranches was Hugh the Fat, and to his own, he was
Hugh Lupus, the wolf, but none underestimated the shrewd cunning that
had set him above all others in the Conqueror's affections. He was King
William's favourite nephew and the most powerful man in the north of
England.

Decisive, underhand and very brutal in his dealings with his vassals,
the Earl wore the mantle of his success with arrogance. The county of
Cheshire was firmly in his grip and he was determined to wring as many
silver marks from the population as he could.

His appetite temporarily sated, Hugh dipped his fingers delicately in
the scenteck hand-bowl and carefully wiped them with almost ritualistic
obsession. Waving the food from view, he returned with a sigh to the
task in hand..

"So, de Courcy," to what honour do I owe this visit?" To Ghislaine's
amazement," the question Was addressed. to her scowling captor in most
familiar terms. How on earth did the Earl of Chester know this stinking
outlaw? It did occur to her, however, that Hqgh Lupus was staring at
them with little sign of pleasure.

"I have come to request protection under your law of advowry." The low,
rich voice was almost a growl and used none of the fine words usually
reserved for the Earl.

The Earl appeared to ignore the slight as he heaved himself to his feet
before the men, his thumbs hooked into his jewelled belt. A smirk
hovered on his grease-spattered lips:' To what do I owe this happy
occurrence?"

De Courcy just scowled more deeply. His smaller companion,. however,
returned the smile and bowed gracefully, his blond curls falling forward
onto his handsome face.

"My name is Arnaud d'everard, my lord.~De Courcy is here to request an
audience with you., Hugh d'avranches surxteyed them silently: for a
moment before merely nodding his assent.

D'Everard continued, "De Courcy has been unjustly accused. of a crime
~and wishes to reside in Cheshire under your protection until he is able
to clear his name. As he has been of help to you in the past, he
naturally. hoped you would be willing. to return the favour." The blond
man's voice was soft and confident and he was~ cleayly no base-born
outlaw.

She looked nervously up at the tall man by her side, her brow wrinkling
in. disgust, The Earl' was' indeed famous for harbouring all manner of
criminals within the county under the auspices of adv, owry, For a fee,
Hugh . d'avranches was always willing to provide a safe haven in one of
Cheshire's great forests for outlaws from other counties fleeing the
consequences of their wrongdoing. His coffers might' be full of silver
marks, but the forests were crawling with dangerous outlaws.

Not even the King's men would attempt to Cross the county borders to
follow a criminal without having the King's seal first; and William was
reluctant to interfere in the Earl's domain. No one was safe to ride
abroad these days.

It was suspected that her father and Peter Stave Icy had been attacked
and killed a few months earlier by one such notorious band.
Understandably, the Earl appeared reluctant to deal with criminals
effectively since his treasure chests groaned with the fruits of such
practices. Any criticism of his regime was dealt with harshly.

Ghislaine's mouth was as dry as dust and she gratefully picked up a
goblet of wine offered to her by the page at the Earl's bidding. Her
stomach, ever unaware of the sensitive situation, began to make loud
gurgling. noises.

Her cheeks fired in embarrassment but, if anyone heard, nothing was
said.

And what is this crime?" Hugh d'avranches' voice held little of his
customary boredom.

De Courcy's scowl deepened if that was possible. "The murder of a noble
woman. One Margaret Stave Icy

The harsh gruff voice echoed in Ghislaine's ears. Margaret was dead and
the man accused of her murder was standing beside her.

Ghislaine stared at de Courcy in silence, horror and disbelief echoing
in her mind. The healthy glow from her freckled face paled as she
watched her friend's murderer demanding help from Hugh d'avranches. No
trace of remorse had softened his dark, stubbly face.

She. muse have made some small noise, 'for once again, Ghislaine found
those glittering eyes spear her for no more than a few seconds before
returning to stare at the Earl.

"Margaret Staveley was the widow of Peter. She lived to the east of the
MacClesfield Hundred, if I have the right of it?" The Earl's voice was
slow and speculative

"What business had you in that area?"

De Courcy's expression had not changed.

"I had

recently purchased a manor about half a'day's ride from Stave Icy The to
fie was weary and his irritation at the questioning was apparent to all.

"I had no knowledge of this," replied the Earl in such a way as to
convince Ghislaine that he had indeed been privy to this fact. De
Courcy's snort of disbelief earned him no more than a raised eyebrow
from his questioner.

Whoever this man was, thought Ghislaine, he had to be of some
consequence, for Hugh d'avranches was not normally so equable when faced
with such appalling manners. He had shifted position slightly so that
his arms were. folded across his broad chest, and his strong legs
planted wide apart. When he lifted his head a little, Ghislaine could
see his blue eyes narrowed in anger.

The smaller man at de Courcy's side, clearly sensing his companion's
unease, stepped into the breach.

"He purchased the manor last year from Bigot de Loges. My friend's
services have been much 'in demand and he had a desire to settle. He
took up iesidence a few weeks after Yuletide and my lord and I went to
pay the lady a." courtesy visit a few days ago. When we left, She was in
good health.

"However, it would seem that the lady and her people were killed in an
unprovoked attack not long after our departure and we stand accused of
her murder. No witnesses survived," he added quietly.

"The lady's brother, Henry Dettingham, 'is demanding' our execution.

De'ttingham managed to seize my 1ord's manor in our absence and has
sworn revenge." Light dawned in Ghislaine's mind. De Courcy was a
mercenary.

Cold seeped through her body. Margfiret had been butchered by a
mercenary.

She scanned the harsh planes of his dark face, but found no trace of
softness there. He would show no mercy to a woman, she was sure. What
manner of man v~ould kill someone as gentle and sweet as Margaret?

A vision of the pretty Margaret came to her mind. She had been married
to Ghislaine's brother, Richard, for little more than a year.

Whilst Richard was involved with the campaigns against the Welsh,
Ghislaine and Margaret had struck up an unlikely friendship.

Margaret was gentle and sweet, and often shocked at Ghislaine's
tomboyish adventures with Edwin. But she had been loyal to her new
family and had provided Ghislaine with the female companionship she
needed.

The shock of Richard's death had forged an even closer friendship.

Small and slender, her ash blonde hair and' honest blue eyes had
attracted many young suitors. That she had chosen a quiet, steady
widower of middling years had' surprised several of her friends except
for Ghislaine. Peter Staveley had been a close companion of her father's
and she had known him to be a gentle, wise and essentially lonely man
who needed a young wife and family on whom to bestow his hidden well of
affection and his wealth. And now they were both dead.

"And your men?" questioned the Earl, a thoughtful look on his face.

Ghislaine was reminded of a hawk hovering over its prey. A very fat
hawk.

"Twenty survived the subsequent attack by her brother on my manor and
await my sign." De Courcy's toneless voice sent shivers down her back.

The Earl inhaled deeply through his nose and pushed back his
silver-blond hair.

"Pray explain the need for a sign, de Courcy." The blue eyes had
narrowed as they 1/ scanned the back of the hall before returning to the
men before him.

Before her captor could answer, Ghislaine turned to him. Propelled by
fury and perhaps a surfeit of wine, she determined to find out about
Margaret.

"Why?" she demanded hoarsely.

"Why did you kill her?"

All eyes in the hall turned now to her. Behind her, some of the women
gasped at her effrontery. Women did not interfere in men's business.

She could feel the whole hall hold its collective breath as they waited
for the axe to fall.

Guy de Courcy turned once more to his hostage. Her dark eyes spat anger
and condemnation, 'her whole body demanding that he respond to her
question.

Despite his tiredness and irritation, he had to admit to a small amount
of admiration for the girl. Few men dared what she had.

"I committed no crime," he replied simply, his blue eyes boring into
her.

His words only fuelled her ire. Then why are you here?"

He gave her a hard, soul-searching stare.

"My business is with the Earl of Chester? His cold words hung in the air
between them until destroyed by the coarse laughter of H ugh
d'avranches.

"Aye. You have the right of it," he growled.

"I had not recognised you, my Lady de Launay." His cold eyes raked her
dishevelled, dirty clothes and tangled hair.

"I had thought that you might have been one of de Courcy's camp
followers."

Such sarcasm only fired Ghislaine's cheeks~ and caused her chin to lift
a little. From the corner of her eye, she saw Guy de Courcy~s jaw
tighten in anger.

"But since de Courcy seems to have the measure of you it brings to mind
your purpose here." Although he was staring at Ghislaine, the words were
clearly addressed to the mercenary.

"Lady de Launay is here to  ...  persuade you to provide us with your
protection."

A slow smile formed on Hugh d'avranches' generous lips.

"And what benefits would I receive in return for my protection?"

De Courcy frowned.

"I have my usual skills at your disposal for the forty days."

"I believe your skills to be most unusual," came the Earl's reply.

"But I regret that forty days of knight's service is perhaps not quite
what I had in mind."

De Courcy's dark head shot up, but Arnaud d'everard's arm stayed him.

"And what do you have in mind, my lord?"

The other man's softer, more co-operative tone seemed to please the
Earl.

"The w~ars with the Welsh have drained many of my normal resources of
late.

I find that sixty days' service may be more acceptable. In addition to
one hundred marks of silver, should I accept."

Hugh:. d'avranches and Guy de Courcy eyed each other with dislike,
tempered with something . akin to respect. It would pay neither to
underestimate the other.

De Courcy's brusque nod indicated his acceptance of the terms.

"I

have a demand of my own." The words were received in silence.

"If I and my men are to provide sixty days' service in full combat, it
will be necessary to accommodate us in better surroundings than
MacClesfield forest. We need somewhere to live and train, preferably in
a quiet area with few neighbours. The de Launay manor of Chapmonswiche
is suitable for our needs. The one hundred marks will be forthcoming for
as long as your full protection is required. When I dear my name, I
shall quit the de Launay manor and return to my own."

Hugh drew a deep breath as he pondered this latest demand. Ghislaine
felt herself turn rigid. He could not turn her home over to this
criminal.

"Which brings me back to Lady de Launay." Hugh's eyes slid once more
over Ghislaine with barely concealed scorn.

"What role does she play in this?"

"She ensures your goodwill, my Lord. I am sure that you have no desire
to see her come to harm." The blond eyebrows raised in question.

The Earl looked unimpressed by this latest threat. "And if I do not
agree to protect you from the King's men or Dettingham?"

"My men are scattered throughout the city awaiting my signal should you
decide against me, then they will set fire to key buildings."

She was sure it was a lie, but the hand gripping her arm gave it a
painful squeeze. Ghislaine did not need to be reminded about Edwin.

The Earl drew a deep breath as he pondered this proposition. His fingers
stroked at his stubbly jowls. "Let me tfiink on the matter whilst you
share bread and wine." He beckoned to the servants who hurried to do his
bidding.

There were no laggards in the castle of Chester.

Guy de Courcy, satisfied that the Earl would accede to his request in
the end, relaxed his scowl and the grip on Ghislaine's arm. When they
mounted the dais, Ghislaine found herself seated in between her captors.
Was she now to sit by the man who had killed her friend and exchange
pleasantries?

"Is it your custom to butcher innocent women?" she began, a fire blazing
within. She would not let Margaret die without a fight. Not for one
moment did she believe his story of innocence. After all, only guilty
men run.

The two eyed each. other with intense dislike. Her words, de Courcy
found, had destroyed any appetite he might have had. Taking a deep
draught of the soft red wine, he glared at her with his customary flown.
This was not the moment for a shrewish red-haired wench to start
questioning him. Her dark eyes were smouldering with loathing.

"I take it, then, that as your father is no longer alive you did batter
him to death with your tongue? My sympathies lie entirely with him."

The sheer audacity of the man was breathtaking and left her, for once,
speechless. Ghislaine opened her mouth and then closed it quickly,
realising what he was about.

"Your pretty speeches, sir, together with that natural charm you
possess, will ens tire your success in the court here. You will no doubt
find yourself most at home." The silence about her should have been
clear warning that she really was overstepping the mark, but Ghislaine
could only think of Margaret.

"Murderers, thieves and outlaws inhabit the land in great numbers." I am
sure that you will find a suitable stone to crawl under."

A large, tanned hand raked the black locks before slamming down onto the
table.

"Unless you are keen to join your father, wench, I suggest you hold your
tongue."

Guy's head was throbbing and he was in dire need of sleep. Most girls
usually cowered away from his scowls in terror. Why this one had to
choose now to assault him with her tongue was beyond his reasoning.

It was becoming clear, to him that the dampness that abounded in this
part of the. country addled a body's wits. He took another gulp of the
wine. At least that was palatable.

Help came from an unexpected source.

"You must forgive the Lady de Launay, sir. She is clearly overset by the
news of Margaret Staveiey's death." A thin, grey haired woman sitting.
to the far side of Hugh leaned forward. to address him.

De Courcy's eyes glanced sideways, noting the curl of Ghislaine's lips
at these words and gulped another goblet of wine down. His curt nod was
the only indication that he had actually heard her.

"Perhaps," the woman continued smoothly, 'if you were 'to explain the
circumstances, it would be easier for us to understandt' De Courcy
suddenly jerked his head towards the unknown woman and stared at her.
Ghislaine could not help feeling that her captor knew this woman,
although he gave no clear sign of doing so. q need explain myself to no
woman," he growled, giving her a look of such distaste that even
Ghislaine felt herself recoil.

The woman inclined her head in acceptance of his outburst, but did not
seem at all surprised or even ~apset by the words. Ghislaine glared at
him in outrage.

"There is, after all, little to explain." His voice was. cold and
irritable once more.

"I am accused of the woman's murder. I know aught else save that I have
been forced to forfeit my own manor and have lost ten of my men." He
sank back into a scowl.

Hugh's eyes flickered carefully between the woman and de Courcy as he
listened to this exchange.

"It may be that we can come to an amicable agreement that would benefit
both of us." His cold eyes rested on Ghislaine for a moment before
returning to de Courcy.

De Courcy stared at the Earl, his distrust of the man barely concealed.

Ghislaine rather thought for a moment that he wanted to throw the goblet
of wine over him. D'Everard, however, seemed to have sensed that this
was not the time to antagonise him.

"We~are keen to hear your suggestions, my lord." D'Avranches inclined
his jowly face towards his ward, regarding her blandly with his
calculating eyes.

Ghislaine shivered a little under his assessing stare. The man always
got what he wanted, caring not a whit if it were by fair means or foul.

"I think, Hugh drawled lazily, 'that we require more privacy for this
discussion." His eyes turned to de Courcy, who inclined his dark head
slightly in deference to the Earl's wishes.

"I believe, Helene, that my ward would benefit from a view of the river
to restore her temper and clear her mind." He addressed the grey-haired
woman who nodded silently.

As she rose from the bench, Ghislaine glanced at her dark foe. His head
was lowered over his wine and his broad shoulders slumped forward as {f
in complete exhaustion. Suddenly, aware that her hostile eyes were on
him, he looked up. For a fraction of a. second, those summer-blue eyes
compelled her to remain where she was, and then released her when he had
taken his fill. Hatred flooded through her and she was glad that he was
suffering.

Her desire to exit with dignity however, was foiled by her foot catching
in some rushes near the dais and she was forced to leave with a flush to
her cheeks.

She had a bad feeling that Hugh d'avranches was about to wreak his
revenge on her.

CHAPTER TWO.

As x~E stood outside the wooden doors, Ghislaine turned to Helene.

The~ words she would have spoken died in her mouth as she saw that a
deathly pallor had enveloped the woman.

"Is there aught I can do?" Ghislaine took-Helene by the shoulders as the
lady closed her eyes. She shook her head silently while Ghislaine tried
to loosen her kirtle a little. Her bones felt so thin and frail in her
strong fingers that Ghislaine feared she would shatter if she held her
much longer.

"Some wine?" she whispered urgently.

"Nay. It will pass in a moment. Thank you, Ghislaine." Slowly the colour
began to return to Helene's soft skin, and much to Ghislaine's relief, a
smile touched her 'lips. "I think some air might help," she whispered,
her hand clutching at Ghislaine's sleeve.

Nodding in agreement, Ghislaine gently steered Helene up the stone steps
to the top of the keep.

"Do I know you?" she asked the woman curiously as they paused before the
last few steps. Few strangers would have used her first name.

"No," came the breathless reply.

"But I have followed your escapades about Cheshire with great interest,"
she added, eyeing the remaining steps with determination. Smiling, the
woman turned the most expressive brown eyes on Ghislaine that she had
ever seen.

"My name is Helene du Beauregard. I have not met you before I~LILA E l H
H I~P~ bh/~LL although I did know your mother." The doubtful look~ on
Ghislaine's face caused her to shrug her thin shoulders delicately.

"It was some time ago, but I 'am sorry for your loss. She was a most
exceptional woman."

Ghislaine nodded curtly in acceptance, and breathed in the salty air as
they passed through the door of the keep. The two guards who were
lounging against the keep wall eyed them with half-interested curiosity
before returning to their conversation. Ignoring them, Ghistaine and
Helene turned to look at the view. From a vantage point normally
monopolised by the soldiers, the women took deep gulps Of the air
blowing in from the Welsh border.

The last rays of the afternoon sun flitted across the countryside beyond
the River Dee that meandered around the ancient city. As Ghislaine
stared across the river towards Wales, night' clouds gathered on the
distant horizon.

Thoughts-of her brother, Richard, squeezed her heart. He had died
fighting the Welsh little more than a year ago, and still she missed
him. So many good men had died in those wild hills.

Ghislaine turned back to Helene. The woman was blue with the cold, for
her fashionable tunic was made only for the warmth of the indoor fires,
Draping her own cloak over Helene's thin shoulders, Ghistaine shivered a
little. Her companion gripped her forearm once more and gave it a
squeeze in gratitude.

"You are much like your mother in your attention of people," she said
quietly, her eyes searching Ghislaine's freckled face.

Her words caused Ghislaine [o look sharply at her.

"I am nothing like her? Had her father not said as much for the. last
seven years? Had he not constantly said how much he regretted that she
was not' more like her mother?

Helene shook her head.

"In looks and body, no. But she took care of people, no matter what
others thought." "How did you know her?" Ghislaine asked curiously For a
moment, Helene's eyes trailed over the palisade and beyond, staring
almost sightlessly into the distance. Lost in her own thoughts, the
older woman pulled the heavy cloak more tightly around her, as if it
could somehow protect' her from the memo fides

"Did you know her well?" Ghislaine prompted, her interest stirred.

"Above all things her mother had loved people. She had often defied her
father to take care of ailing peasants and servants, lavishing attention
and her gentle spirits upon them. They had loved her in return. And yet
her father had refused to remember that side of her.

He had worshipped her memory, albeit a false one.

"Aye. She once attended me for an ailment that would not be cured. It
took a long time and we learned much of each other then." She said no
more, although Ghislaine waited for her to continue.

"My father did not like her to travel away from the manor," she added,
hoping that this would encourage Helene to continue.

"Nay," she said rather curtly.

"He did not." Her lips closed tightly and it was clear that she would
offer no more than that, at least for the time being.

"Do you have her healing skills?"

Ghislaine shrugged her shoulders lightly.

"Some, but I fear I have not inherited her gentleness." Her words were
spoken with such feeling that Helene laughed gently.

"You have inherited her courage, though. And from what I have heard of
you over these last few years, you have needed it to deal with that
irksome father of yours."

Few people had spoken so truly of her father since his death that' the
irreverence of her statement caused Ghislaine's mouth to lift at the
corners.

"Aye. I fear that I have inherited much of his temper, too. It is an
affliction that caused him much sorrow."

The laughter that they shared for a moment or two was halted by a sudden
gust of wind that buffeted them me~'cilessly. Standing closer together
for protection and warmth, Ghislaine found herself beginning to warm to
this woman, despite having known her for a short while; At least she did
not criticise nor did she condemn. She also displayed a sense of humour
that was sadly lacking in most worthy and pious ladies of the court.

Ghislaine appraised the woman once again.

"Tall and thin, Helene du Beauregard still retained much of what must
have been a great beauty.

Her dark eyes were fringed with thick, black lashes whilst her abundant
hair had turned grey. Fine lines creased her eyes and her soft pink
skin.

Ghislaine judged her to be in her forties, a great age for a woman of
the court. Her speech and manners were both gentle and confident, not at
all what one would have expected from one of Hugh d'avranches's court
followers.

"Do you live in Chester?" The question was direct and pointed.

A glimmer of a smile touched Helene's lips at the younger girl's lack of
guile.

"Nay. My manor lies half a day's fide to the south-east of Chester. I am
come to settle a dispute over boundaries."

A common enough problem for anyone. Ghislaine visibly relaxed a little.

"Then you do not live far from Chapmonswiche?"

Helene shook her head.

"I live at Omberleigh. It is only a small manor with a few fields and a
village, but it is well enough for my needs. A small company of guards
protects us from any possible' attack, and these days I am glad of the
security."

"And your husband?" Ghislaine spoke without thinking, but wished she had
said nothing at all as a look of pain crossed Helene's face.

"My husband is dead," came her toneless reply.

"I am sorry," she replied quietly. When would she learn not to open her
mouth without thinking?

Helene reached (~ut for her hand and patted it gently. "DO not concern
yourself, Ghislaine. I am content now."

Her heartfelt sigh caused Helene to turn her head up to Ghislaine, for
the girl was a good head taller than she.

"I cannot believe that Margaret is dead." "Did you know her well?"
Helene asked solicitously, her eyes watching Ghislaine carefully.

She nodded slowly, pushing back some loose strands of hair.

"Margaret was the only friend I had, really. She was married briefly to
my brother, and when-he died, she married my father's friend, Peter. How
could someone as Sweet and gentle as Margaret deserve such a fate?" she
asked angrily. ~She never did aught but good and look what happened.

Both husbands die and she is murdered. There is no justice." She turned
to blink away the tears.

Helene looked at Ghislaine's stiff back with sympathy and set her arm
around her shoulder for comfort.

"How old are you, Ghislaine?" she asked after a mir~ute. "Nineteen
summers," came the muffled reply. "Whatever Hugh decides," Helene began
gently, 'you must obey him, for his anger can be ruthless." Her dark
eyes scanned Ghislaine's worried coumenance.

"It will go badly for your people if you do not."

Ghislaine's shoulders drooped at the mention of her villagers.

"Aye, I know it. But the thought of spending the rest of my days either
shut up in a convent or married off to some loathsome brute does not
offer much hope."

Helene shrugged her shoulders.

"Few of us have more choice than that.

And," she paused to choose her words carefully, 'not all men are so hard
to bear." The light teasing of her words made Ghislaine's lips
reluctantly turn upwards.

"Or is there some other reason?"

"What do you. mean Ghislaine's cheeks blushed-suddenly. The question was
clear, but she did not know how far she could trust this woman.

"If you mean my manservant, Edwin, I have known him these past ten
summers," she began slowly, "He taught me how to shoot an arrow, to
fish, to ride. He even showed me how to use a knife." Her eyes glanced
up at Helene. their innocence 'shining, "Edwin has saved me from death a
thousand times and I have mended his wounds, revived him from the
effects of too much ale and consoled the women he has cast aside. There
is no more to it than that." Ghislaine could have said that there was,
in fact, a great deal more to their friendship, but she was not so sure
that Helene would have viewed their other activities with that humorous
gleam in her eye. Not every Norman lady would consider the feeding of
starving English folk a suitable activity for one of her own class.

Helene regarded her a little sceptically, for stories of her scrapes
with the Englishman abounded the county. The man was reputedly handsome.
And yet the girl seemed to be telling the truth. "Nay, I did not mean
Edwin. I had thought you interested in another. Perhaps I was mistaken."

Ghislaine'~s cheeks coloured even more.

"There is no other," she denied with such vehemence that Helene knew she
had hit on the truth.

Warming to the idea of discovering just who it was' that Ghislaine
favoured, Helene began to list the candidates she knew.

"Most are loud-mouthed, vulgar louts, as you intimated," she began.

"And of the rest, most are married. Robert of Montalt is probably too
old and ugly; Gerard de Rospernaise shows more interest in his squires;
Cadimane de Soubeyron might possibly turn the head of a girl like you,
although his lack of height might ~be a problem." Helene eyed Ghislaine
slyly to see if she was getting close.

"Walter de Belleme is handsome, tall and personable.-He is a distinct
possibility."

Ghislaine turned almost puce with embarrassment.

"I hardly know him.

He has been most kind to me, but beyond that, he has been very .
circumspect."

Helene du Beauregard frowned.

"Walter keeps some strange compafiy, and I think it unlikely that any
knight will counter the Earl's wishes," she said gently.

"I fear that you will have to face your future alone. It might not be so
bad." Her beautiful face saddened a little. "Women must submit to the
will of their father or their lord, but you might be able to find some
solace in your life. AI~I~ I H Hl~l~ bhall home or your children.
Sometimes an affection can grow in time ..."

The expression on her face became distant again. Intrigued, Ghislaine
could not stop the questions that crowded her mind.

"Did you have a choice?"

The question caused Helene to pause for a moment, as if thinking back to
that time so many years ago.

"Aye. I had a choice. Marriage or the convent. For me it was no ~choice
at all, though. The knight my father had chosen was handsome and young.
I was glad to accept him."

"And were you happy?" Ghislaine watched the older woman as she pulled
the cloak closer to her thin body. Time seemed to have been kind to her,
although 'there was an aura of loneliness about her that did not leave.

Again her shoulders shrugged casually.

"Of a fashion. I had children, a home. My husband  ...  provided well."
Despite the brightness of her words. Ghislaine detected a note of
sadness.

"The convent would not have suited me." Her lips smiled at these words
as if she had said something that amused her privately.

"Do you like children?" she asked suddenly, her dark eyes intent on
Ghislaine.

"A-aye," stammered Ghislaine, somewhat taken aback by go direct a
question.

"I would like children of my own, God willing." ~ Her answer seemed to
satisfy the woman, so Ghislaine took a chance.

Moving over to the edge of the keep wall, Ghislaine's eyes turned to the
busy port a little way up the river. Ships from all parts of the world
came to dock at Chester, bringing spices, cloth, wine, livestock, furs
and many other goods that rich people would pay dearly for. She watched
the bustle of activity as a large ship was unloading its cargo.

"My father often used to say that I should have been born a boy, and
sometimes I think he was right." She breathed in the soft, salty' air
slowly, as if savouring this moment of freedom.

"Sometimes I used to wish I could fight in the wars or sail across the
water." Her eyes remained wistfully on the port. She was sure that even
the understanding Helene de Beauregard would be shocked at such an
admission.

"I wanted to be free to do whatever I wanted, like Richard. And yet,
sometimes, I wonder what it would be like to have a child ..."
Ghislaine's voice trailed off into embarrassed silence.

There was no censure in Helene's voice.

"You think no differently from many others, my dear. Unfortunately we
cannot do what we like, but sometimes we can try to make the best of
what we have."

Helene had come to stand by her side and had placed a hand on
Ghislaine's cold arm.

"Come. I think that the Earl has probably had time enough with de
Courcy, and we are in great need of the fire."

Ghislaine nodded, a vision of de Courcy's harsh, dark, scowling face
rushihg oddly before her.

"I can only hope that he has rid himself of that murdering barbarian,
but I fear that will prove to be a vain hope." A thought struck her.

"Do you know of him?"

H~len,e sighed.

"De Courcy is well known for his skills on the battlefield' and I
believe his tactics have outwitted many of William's more persistent
opponents. I suspect that Hugh would be more than happy to hire his
services." She looked at Ghislaine speculatively.

"He is also rumoured to be handsome underneath all that hair." The words
were spoken with a certain confidence.

Ghislaine gave a most unladylike snort.

"He is a devil. Death would be too good a price for Margaret's murder."
Her anger spilled from her as she stalked towards the steps.

As Ghislaine descended the steep stone stairway, she was thinking about
her future. The convent would at least offer a form of peace and perhaps
she could adjust to such a life. A deep shudder went through her body,
for the cold and fear had taken its toll. If this barbarian had not
decided' he wanted her manor, her life would not have had to change.
Life was just not fair.

Suddenly she stopped~ Walter! She had forgotten about Walter! She
conjured up his handsome face in her mind and the thought made her
smile. His blond hair was the envy of many of the NORMAN ladies, but she
liked his smile and the way his grey eyes made her feel special.

He had been the only one who did not make her feel like a clumsy cart
horse Together they had laughed and talked about a million things, and
the feelings she felt for him had grown with the months.

She remembered how her father had disapproved of their friendship
tobegin with, but Walter had somehow brought him round and became a
frequent visitor to the estate. Since the death of his first wife,
Walter had become lonely and had often expressed his appreciation of
friendship with a woman who did. not simper and giggle. Ghislaine had
been impressed by his modest courage, for he had continued to hunt there
at great personal risk despite the knowledge that the murderous outl0w,
Thomas Bollyngton, had made the forest his domain.

Although. nothing had been said, she could tell by the way he looked at
her that his feelings were engaged. It was only a matter of time before
Walter declared himself. Since her father's death, though, the
impropriety of him visiting an unmarried ~irl had prevented him from
seeing her much. She had missed him.

When Walter found out what had happened he would be sure to speak out.
And yet, despite her belief in the depth of his feelings, Helene du
Beauregard's words rang in her ears. Few would. ever dispute' the wishes
of the Earl ~of Chester. Would Walter? A vague feeling of doubt began to
float- around her mind as she slowed her steps. He had always been quick
to do his bidding, it was true. And yet, he would not abandon her. Nay,
he would not.

Fortified by her own-conviction, Ghislaine read ted the foot of the
steps in a more buoyant mood and awaited the slower arrival of Helene du
Beauregard with a cheerful smile.

As soon as they entered the hall Ghislaine was aware of the highly
charged atmosphere. Something had happened to increase the tension.

All eyes were on her as she made her way to the dais.

The mercenary was no longer sitting at the table but was pacing before
the fire, his expression even more thunderous than before. He was the
very epitome of evil, she thought. He tosssed back another goblet of
wine before suddenly hurling it across the floor in a violet temper.
Ghislaine gulped.

Hugh was' still reclining regally in his chair, a raised eyebrow the
only .

outward sign that he had heard de Courcy's outb~

D'

' Everard just stared at her.

"Ah, Ghislaine," drawled Hugh.

"I am pleased have returned."

Ghislaine doubted that, but his w had a dramatic impact on de Courcy.

He whirled rc to face her, advancing towards the dais in huge stri Had
she not been so afeared, she would have ste[ back, but Ghislaine found
herself rooted to the spot.

"So you would trade this wench for my services?" Courcy spat his words
out in disgust, his blue staring at her dishevelled, wind-blown
appearance barely concealed scorn.

Ghislaine stiffened in shock.

"What do you .n " trade'~?" Hervoice.

was no more than a whisper.

"I have decided that you cannot live Chapmonswiche with an army of men,
and I do think the convent is the place for you, my lady." Earl eyed her
with an indifferent stare.

"Your inte: would be better served elsewhere. You will marr' Courcy."

The words penetrated her mind and Ghislaine left speechless for a
moment. De Courcy looked' as wished to kill her.

"I choose the convent," she began, her voice t~ bling. It was very hard
to swallow the torr or seemed to be leaping from her throat. De Courcy
st for a brief second, staring at her with cold blue -Did she detect
relief there?

"Perhaps I did not make myself clear," Hugh b slowly.

"You will marry de Courcy on the morrow. servants are to serve your
husband.

I have' no doub! will see the advantage of such an alliance." The tt
behind his words were apparent to all.

Summoning every ounce of courage, Ghislaine lifted her head in defiance.

"You cannot marry me to a murderer. Tis not right in the eyes of God. I
d~mand to go to the convent." ' Hugh stared back at her, a heavy sigh
lifting his chest. "On the morrow, my lady. Or your people will be put
to death. Should you and.de Courcy find your interests, shall we say~ at
odds, then I feel certain that you will manage to come to some suitable
arrangement."

There was a cold gleam in his eyes.

The candles swam about her. as Ghislaine tried to focus on 'the one
unchanging thing in the hall. The anger shining from the eyes of Guy de
Courcy. At least they were agreed on one thing. A heavy fist smashed
do~vn onto the table, causing her to jump from her bemused state.

"She is not willing and neither am I."

"Neither of you has a choice. You need my protection and' the lady needs
a husband. I am sure you will both see the advantages of such a match by
the morning." Hugh d'avranches was pleased with his decision. He waved
to the servant and a goblet of wine was placed in her cold hand.

"A toast to your future."

Ghislaine's goblet fell to the floor and the red wine ebbed unnoticed
into the midden round her feet.

CHAPTER THREE.

THE cold morning light that stole through the cracks in the meagre
shutters broke Ghislaine's fitful' sleep. Neither ~the heap of fur skins
nor the poor fire in the corner of her tiny dormitory could dispel the
blistering chill of the priory from seeping through her bones. The
corridors beyond her wooden door echoed with the chanting of the monks
at matins. She felt empty. Cold and empty.

She rosef quickly and pulled a heavy skin over her thin shift, hastily
remembering to sketch the outline of a cross before the crucifix on the
wall.

Her bare feet were freezing as she opened the shutters which looked out
over the courtyard. It too was empty in the half-gloom of the winter
morning, What had she expected to find, she wondered? That Walter would
be waiting for her? Or that Edwin had escaped his chains from Chester
castle and come to rescue her?

She absently rubbed her hands over her arms as she looked up at the
grey, cheerless sky. No doubt a fitting start to this . marriage,~ she
thought bitterly. Slamming the shutters in frustration, Ghislaine
whirled round and proceeded to pace the short length of her cell.

With her mind searching for the most sensible course of action,
Ghislaine failed to notice how cold she had grown~ It was not until a
bitter gust of wind blew open the unsecured shutters and all but put out
the poor fire that an idea formed.

Her feet and ankles had turned an ugly, mottled blue, whereas her long
fingers were almost white. She remembered then that the priory had the
rather unenviable reputation of having to accommodate one or two
unsuspecting guests in the graveyard rather than in its spartan cells
during the harsher months. Aye, she grinned. Death would be a very
expedient remedy for this marriage. Or at least the appearance of her
imminent demise, It was possible that the Earl would not insist on the
marriage if he thought she was too ill.

The thought of ruining the plans of her murderous bridegroom spurred
Ghislaine into action. The fire was doused down, the shutters pulled
wide open and the skins heaped in a pile on the floor by the bed.

All she had to do now was wait until she was discovered. Hopefully she
would be a good shade of blue all over by then.

Easing her body under the thin blanket, Ghislaine soon began to shiver
quite uncontrollably. A harsh, dark, un barbered face made its unwelcome
appearance in her mind, the blue eyes staring at her knowingly. She
swallowed hard. Marriage to such a monster was sickening. He had
murdered Margaret. And yet unbidden she remembered, too, the anger in
his eyes when she had asked him why he had killed Margaret.

When their betrothal had been announced; all but the couple concerned
drank to the forthcoming marriage In fact, she reminded herself, they
had both ignored each other completely, their dislike of each other
plain for all to see. De Courcy had ndt bothered to feign interest in
her, and that, at least, was honest. He had drunk himself into a sot ted
heap with his blond co~npanion, and as far as she was aware, he would
have remained on the stinking rushes all night. She wrinkled her nose in
disgust. The man was worse than an animal.

Sweet Lord, the cold was truly freezing her to death. It had been
Helene's suggestion' to bed in the priory and she had agreed readily.

Nothing would have induced her to spend the night on the Earl of
Chester's rushes. The old priory of St. Werburgh had been built in the
north western comer of the city, offering respite to travellers,
merchants and visitors alike. The accommodation was spartan but clean,
each tiny cell boasting no more than a pallet and a fire. The peace of
the place had finally allowed her some sleep, despite her tortured
dreams, Walter had not appeared and yet as one of the Earl's close
confidants it was a distinct possibility that he would arrive in time.
She pulled the icy blanket: tighter If she could at least delay the
marriage until Walter could devise a better plan, that would be enough.
He was very adept at shrewd thinking, and at times she had admonished
herself for,~ considering him a little too clever. Well, he would need
all his skill now, Ghislaine's breath was icy white in the freezing
dormitory before Helene came to find her.

"Ghislaine! What ails you?" Helene took one look at her before turning
to slam the shutters to and hurriedly calling for her maid. ' '~
Ghislaine was now so cold that in truth she feared that she might die
after all. It would be a poor joke, she thought ruefully. Her body' had
ceased to feel anything and her chest felt heavy and sore. Speech was
nigh on impossible with her mouth frozen.

Helene and her maid worked swiftly. The fire was rekindled and coaxed
into giving off some heat whilst more skins were ordered to put on the
pallet.

Helene chaffed her numb feet, whilst the maid went in search of hot
water.

"Can you talk now?" Helene whispered urgently, peering anxiously over
Ghislaine's blue-tinged face. "Do you feel any warmer?"

The woman's concern was so obviously genuine that Ghislaine felt a pang
of remorse for her dissembling. She would make it up to her laterl she
vowed.

"Nay," came the croaked reply. '1 cannot move."

That at least was true "Then I must send a message to the Earl. The
marriage cannot take place today," Helene responded briskly and called
one of the monks who was hovering outside the door. He was despatched
with all haste and Ghislaine knew a profound sense of relief as the door
closed.

Helene du Beauregard's dark eyes studied her for a few minutes.

Ghislaine's heart contracted. Did she suspect her?

"If I were your mother, I would put you in a hot tub." Tis the only
remedy other than a ~man in your bed that I can think of."

Ghislaine's eyes snapped open at such plain speaking.

"L. ~I think I would prefer a bath,~ she stammered." Very wise," came
the dry retort.

The hot water was a welcome remedy that returned Ghislaine to a more
normal colour. It was so pleasant just wallowing in a herb-scented tub,
so relaxing, that Ghislaine almost forgot her perfidy. Once she was
pronounced warm enough. she was dried and reclothed in a thick monk's
robe and returned to her warmed bed. The spiced wine~ heated her gently
from within, and Ghislaine began to float away in a haze of drowsiness
for a moment or two.

Her peace was interrupted by a loud rap at the door. Stifling her
irritation, Helene opened the door and disappeared outside for a moment.
The urgent whispering caused Ghislaine to prick up her ears for it was
clear that something ~vas amiss.

"Ghislaine," came Helene's entreaty.

"You must awake." A stiff hand shook her. gently' until her eyes opened
warily.

"It would ~seem that your bridegroom is more eager than he appeared last
night. His men surround the priory and he is demanding to see you. He
fears a trick, no doubt." The older woman's face looked pinched and
tired as she smoothed back the wayward curls from Ghislaine's face.

"I have sent a message that you are too ill to see him, but I doubt that
will delay him for long."

The fear of having to face de Courcy caused her heart to beat more
rapidly.

Her throat constricted and her chest begfin to heave. Such a murderous
barbarian would not enter these holy walls, she told herself rapidly in
an attempt to calm down. He was but a man and she~ was safe here, wasn't
she?

The answer to h~r. question was brought by the sound of heavy steps
thudding along the stone corridor and doors being thrust open. A loud
curse made her heart slam against her ribs. Sweet Lord, he had actually
come for her.

"Don't let him in," she croaked to the scandalised Helene.

"I cannot see him yet. Tell him  ...  tell him I will see him on the
morrow ..." The words died in her throat as the door to her cell was
slammed open and de Courcy pushed through the doorway. He seemed almost
to fill the room, his filthy, dark appearance in stark contrast with the
plain white of her chaste cell. His face was still scowling as his eyes
rested on the huddled figure in the narrow bed.

"What trickery is this, lady?" His cold eyes stared at the outraged
Helene who had pushed herself between him and the object of his anger.
Ghislaine was almost certain, however, that the animosity in de Courcy's
eyes was fixed more on Helene than herself and wondered what lay at the
root of it. As far as she knew, they were strangers to each other. Yet
there was something in the air between them.

"There is no trickery, my lord, save what goes on in your mind."

Helene's tone was sharp but controlled. "The girl is half-frozen to
death and I doubt that the marriage will be completed this day. She has
taken a healing draught that will speed her recovery but rest and quiet
are necessary."

Guy de Courcy ignored her pointed glance at the open door and walked
over to Ghislaine's pallet. His very presence filled her with fear and
she had the notion that without. a lot of encouragement, she could
vomit. At his next words, she almost did.

"You will be in the chapel directly, lady, or I shall see the priory
burned and your people exiled at the very least."

To Ghislaine's ears, his threat sounded very ready but she could not
forget Margaret.

"I have one question to ask you before I agree," she managed.

"If you deny murdering Margaret Staveley, then why is your name linked
with hers?"

He had not taken those piercing blue eyes from her pale face and they
bore into her silently.

"I wished to marry her, but the lady was not ...  willing."

Ghislaine stared at him totally at a loss for words. How could such a
wretch as this think of marrying a woman as delicate and lovely as
Margaret? It made no sense, but looking at him, she doubted whether that
was necessary.

Somewhere, deep in her mind, she wondered if anyone did not obey him.
Her hopes of Walter rescuing her faded in the face of his odious
threats. Her head nodded almost imperceptibly as she forced back the
anger and the tears of frustration.

"It pleases me to see you can be' so. biddable, lady. I will await you
in the chapel directly." The weary tone in his voice was almost her
undoing, but Helene stepped in front of him as he turned to leave.

"So an innocent girl is to be dragged from her sick bed to stand at the
altar with an outlaw who stinks of the midden. I had not realised the de
Courcys' honour was sunk so low."

Her stinging retort caused de Courcy to whirl round to face her.

"And what do you know of the de Courcys' honour, madam?"

"Enough ~o know that you bring shame to the very name." Helene du
Beauregard fairly bristled with anger as she eyed him haughtily, her
thin hands 'placed aggressively on her hips.

Her reply caused him to still fleetingly.

"Then it is as well that my parents are dead." He turned swiftly on his
heels and left the cell, leaving Helene staring after him. After a
moment she turned slowly to Ghislaine who was unmoving on the bed.

"Your bridegroom is eager indeed, my Lady de Launay. It would appear
that Hugh Lupus rhust have been giving him a glowing account of your
accomplishments."

Ghislaine groaned into the hard bolster.

"He was probably exaggerating the extent of my wealth." Her voice was
low and husky

"No doubt he is glad to be rid of me." Burying her face in the bolster,
Ghislaine prayed hard that when she lifted her head, she would be back
at her own manor and that this was naught but a terrible dream. Opening
her eyes she found nothing changed except for the expression on Helene's
face. Gone was the light-hearted amusement, and instead Ghislaine could
only see sympathy and concern.

"I will do it," she whispered quietly.

"I have no wish for anyone to die on my account."

Helene nodded her head and helped her out of her pallet.

The small, white-washed chapel was empty save for the priest who had
obviously been commandeered into performing the wedding service. When
Ghislaine entered the chapel, supported by a monk and Lady Helene, the
priest moved forward but was prevented from progressing beyond the first
pew by a large hand. Ghislaine caught her breath as Guy de Courcy rose
from his knees and turned to watch her approach. From the damp tendrils
of his~ dark hair that clung to his forehead, Ghislaine realised that he
had at least heeded some of what Helene had said. However, a quick douse
of cold water was not likely to change his manners or his character.

The fact that she had chosen to remain~in the monk's habit told him much
about her opinion of this marriage, but his eyes were drawn to the
cascade of bright copper

ELIZ, ABEI H

curls that hung to her waist. Unadorned, her hair shone with dancing
lights picking up the rays from the windows and. moving softly in the
breeze. His lips tightened. Perhaps he should not have treated her quite
so harshly.

As she reached his side, she stopped to look up at him, a mixture of
fear, anger and innocence. Guy scowled.

"The Earl took it upon himself to have his scribe lay out the marriage
contract," he began, passing her a white scroll with a thick red seal.

Ghislaine took it, her hands shaking ~ little. The marks made no real
sense to her, but she did not wish to inform de Courcy of her lack.

When she spoke, her voice was under control. "Would you care to
enlighten me?" She would not-make this easy for him. After all, he.

was getting the bargain.

Guy found the parchment casually waved, unread, before his eyes and
glared at her. He had no idea whether the woman could read or just
couldn't be bothered. ~Previous experience of ladies and their whims had
taught him to expect the worst. Hell's teeth, the woman was difficult.
And yet not for the first time did he note her attempt at courage. It
would give him a great deal of satisfaction in taming this wild cat. He
stopped the thought.

Taming--or anything else--did not form part of his plans. Nor did he
have the inclination, he reminded himself.

"The terms are the usual ones," 'he began irritably, 'save the parts to
do with the payment for advowry."

"I have not married before," she interrupted quickly. "Pray, do explain
the " usual terms"."

His vexed expression afforded Ghislaine some satisfaction but it did not
last for long.

"If you try my patience much longer lady, I will be forced to practise
my husbandly duties before the marriage is complete. I am no fool and I
am done with waiting. There will be no more delays."

So he had seen her ruses for what they were. Ghislaine tightened her
lips, knowing that if she said more he would surely carry out his
threats.

Wife-beating was a ~common pastime amongst knights of his station. She
lifted her head in haughty indignation as he gripped her arm, but
despite her best efforts she could not free herself from his hold.

"But know this, lady. When I have cleared my name, I shall put you in
the convent as you request and have done with this charade." So saying
he turned to the priest and nodded impatiently. D'Everard hurried
through the wooden door, accompanied by a lanky youth of indeterminate
age, merely n9dding at the assembled company and taking his place at de
Courcy's side.

The marriage was solemnised quickly and without further interruption.

Neither Walter nor Edwin came to rescue her, and Ghislaine had found
herself repeating her vows in toneless resignation. Her life was now in
the protection of this murdering barbarian, but she vowed that she would
find a way to avenge the death of her friend.

In deference to her supposed indisposition, de Courcy had ordered. a
cart to take her back to the manor at Chapmonswiche. Inwardly, Ghislaine
grimaced at the thought of spending so many uncomfortable hours in that
contraption, but pride would not let her back down. Biting her lip, she
dim bed into the cart as gracefully ~as she could but Cursed roundly
when her cloak ripped on a nail. The look of amusement that de Courcy
bestowed upon her made it plain that he did not for one moment believe
her ailment was fact.

Helene gripped her arm tightly.

"I shall come to visit as soon as I am able." She paused as if about to
say something further, but then shook her head.

"Do not push him too far, Ghislaine." Her anxious face smiled gently at
her.

"If you need me, send word."

Ghislaine nodded wordlessly, too overwhelmed by her sense of impending
doom and loneliness to be able to say anything.

As the heavy cart trundled noisily across the wooden bridge that spanned
the River Dee, Ghislaine looked back at the- walls of the ancienf city
and tried to stifle her tears. She was married. to a murderous mercenary
who wished to put. her in the convent. Her future looked very bleak.

CHAPTER FOUR.

As THE cart forged along ~the s~tony path leading to the manor of
Chapmonswiche, Ghislaine's spirits began to rise a little. At least' she
would be living in her own home. The aches and pains in her jarred bones
melted at the sight of the familiar palisade and the stagnant moat that
had needed draining' for years. if only the ache in her heart would
disappear so easily.

Her bridegroom had inexplicably remained with the cart for the entire
length of the dreary ride from Chester, his huge black destrier champing
to push on.

Ghislaine had stared at his stiff, straight back for some of the time,
wishing for some awful fate to befall him.

They were accompanied by some ten of his uncouth soldiers, the rest
having ridden on ahead with d~Everard and Edwin. Escape was impossible,
but even ~o Ghislaine reminded herself of his threat to her people.

As she watched him, the enormity of what had happened struck her anew.
She had married the murderer of her friend, knew nothing about him save
his oafish manners and surly disposition and could be sharing her bed
with him this night. Everything she possessed and held dear was in his
hands, and she was greatly afeared.

Never in her life had she truly been afraid, leastways not of any one
man.

Her father's temper had been explosive but short-lived, and like as not
her clever 48 tongue had aided her to escape the palm of his hand. She
had been protected from the rest by clint of her position, although
Ghislaine was aware of the harsher realities of married life. Her mother
had often treated women for the results of marital disputes, wife~
beating being in no way a respecter of rank.

The Closer to the drawbridge they moved, the more fearful and nervous
she became. Of course she had expected to marry, although her father'
had never taken any pains to find another partner for her since her
betrothed from the cradle, Robert of Warmundesley, had unfortunately
died of a fever some six years before. Since the death of' his wife,
however, John de Launay had found it more Convenient to have Ghislaine
look after the manor and see to his needs and ~comforts, with little
thought for her own. Money had been hard come by of late and there had
been few suitors for so small an estate.

Her reputation as a wild and un biddable girl who consorted with the
villeins and serfs had done little to enhance her bridal worth, even
though it was in many ways unjustified.

De Courcy looked back at her over his shoulder and 'treated her to one
of his blacker scowls. At least, she decided, he was predictable.
And-the thought struck her then, that as he disliked her so much, he was
unlikely to spend much time in her company. Were she ~to give him such a
disgust of her, he might spend no time at all with her. That thought was
most pleasing. "Do you need help, lady?" ~ Ghislaine started as the
words pierced her thoughts.

Her husband had already dismounted and 'was standing before her, an
impatient frown informing her that he had been waiting for her to get
down.

As she looked up at his tall figure, a vision of Margaret stood by his
side.

"He had wanted small, delicate, pretty Margaret as his wife. A sweet,
god-fearing, clean, well-mannered girl with the experience of two
husbands behind her, and, if she was truthful, not a lot of natural
intelligence. She would have smiled had she not caught his cold, blue
eyes raking her with disgust. A good start.

Without a word, Ghislaine rose awkward}y and attempted to trip out of
the cart. She was thwarted by a pair of strong arms which pulled her to
his chest.

"I am to ensure that no ill befalls you, lady, for your liege-lord is
keen to see you survive the marriage." The words were uttered with a
certain twisted amusement that caused Ghislaine's eyes to fly to his
face.

"Do you succumb in any way, then he has assured me of a place in his
dungeon."

Ghislaine gulped. She had never been so close to any man before, let
alone a barbarian, and she was unprepared for the strange feelings it
stirred in her.

He was younger than she had at first supposed, maybe twenty-five or so,
but years of fighting in all elements had given him a worn appearance.
In fact, Helene du Beauregard was right when she said he was reputed to
be hand-" some. Were it not for those thick, black bristles on his face,
he would be very handsome.

She realised that she must have been staring at him as his lips began to
curl in irritation.

"If I am too heavy for you, husband, put me down. I am not noted for my
delicate size." Her heart was still thudding wildly as those eyes of his
bore into hers and it took all her will-power to control the trembling
that had inexplicably set about her limbs.

His scornful stare was nearly the undoing of her, for he looked as if he
would ignore the Earl's wishes and murder her right there. She found
herself sprawling in the mud. His ways with ladies were most appealing'!

"Do you wish to die, it can be arranged lady," he growled, the familiar
scowl returning.

"I am not of the opinion that you are the Earl's favourite ward."

"My wishes count for little in this arrangement," she retorted angrily
from the ground.

"What I wish to do is to enter the convent."

Ghislaine stood up, momentarily forgetti~ng her plan as she brushed the
dirt from her cloak.

"That, too, can be arranged," he murmured as he turned his back on her
to survey the manor. His only comment was a grunt, before he set about
ordering his escorts to dismount.

Further conversation between them was brought to,a halt by the arrival
of Arnaud d'everard in the company of Sir Brian de Ferrars, her
household steward. Sir Brian had been' with the family a good ten years
and, although approaching middle years and a little unreliable as a
result of his fondness for ale, was loyal and good natured. In truth,
the mari or Was too small to require his services, but Sir Brian had
been a close friend 'of her father's and even the normally hardhearted
Sir John had not been able to turn him off.

"A relief to see you returned in one piece, Lady Ghislaine." Sir Brian's
bleary blue eyes surveyed his mistress closely, but seeing nothing
amiss, turned to the tall stranger at her side with a li~ok of suspicion
on his face. Being only of medium height, Sir Brian had to look up to
the newcomer, a fact which clearly annoyed him.

"I bid you greet Sir Guy de Courcy, my husband, Sir Guy, the head of my
h6usehold, Sir Brian de Ferrars." Ghislaine's voice sounded far more
controlled than she felt. Her relief, however, was short lived for she
could see from his expression that Sir Brian had already made up his
mind about the new lord of the manor.

'1 believe in plain speaking Sir Guy," stated the older man baldly.

"Your reputation is not an enviable one, and you are not the choice I
would have made for Lady Ghislaine."

Ghislaine held her breath, waitin~g for the s4vord to fall at such a
pompous greeting: Sir Brian was apt to take a paternal attitude when he
deemed it necessary. Her eyes widened when they saw de Courcy nod his
head in agreement.

"In your place I would feel the same, but the match was arranged by the
Earl of Chester, He felt that Lady Ghislaine and I would be..

well suited." The last statement was made with more than a touch of
irony.

Sir Brian raised his eyebrow in question.

"I have wealth enough to bring to the property and a loyal army of
twenty men. Lady Ghis!aine has seen the wisdom of the alliance," he
added with a faint smile in her direction.

Ghislaine's face suffused with pink at such famil/ar talk, but although
Sir Brian clearly remained suspicious o~ Sir Guy, she decided this was
not the tune to create a fuss.

"I see you have met Sir Arnaud d'everard. lie will have given you
forewarning of our arrival, no doubt?"

"Aye, Lady Ghislaine. We have done what we could under the
circumstances." The gloomy look that the hapless Sir Brian gave her told
Ghislaine all she needed to know. The kitchens were run by a domineering
woman whose swings of mood were as notorious as h morals. Elfrieda had
turned up at their gates o freezing, wet day last winter. She had been
heavily wi child. The mercenary who had dumped her there h~ muttered
that her only talent was cooking. He did: return, but Elfrieda's skills
in the kitchen had mo than're payed her debt of gratitude.

Sit Brian had always found Elfrieda most in timid ing and Ghislaine
suspected that if they were to eat th night, then she had best sort it
out her sell

"In that case,I shall see you in the hall when you ha made the necessary
arrangements with the men." A' with those parting words, Ghislaine
escaped throu the gate house and disappeared into the bailed, leavi the
three men staring after her.

"Edwin!" Ghislaine stared in horror at the sight of handsome, battered
face.

"Did de Courcy do this?" s demand ted delicately probing his angry
swollen brui: for any serious injury. Finding none, she took a st back
to survey his scowling countenance. Sweet Lo did all the men she knew
scowl?

"Nay," he replied calmly, picking up a small cup usquebaugh from the
table before him. Clearly Et had provided him with this from her
father's sto' "This was the work of the Earl's men." His grey e
continued to stare at her as he drained the cup quic[ and Ghislaine
began to feel uncomfortable. They t grown up together and she recognised
~nger in him.

"You were right," she grudgingly admitted, tint able to take no more of
his accusing looks.

"Ha~ heeded your advice we would not be in this positi.

However, I did not and that's an end to it. At least you! re not the one
married to him."

Edwin uncurled himself from his spot on the bench and stood before his
mistress, his long braids matted and filthy, his tunic badly torn.

"This man is no fool, Ghislaine. Do not attempt to trick him or it will
not go well for us." This speech was delivered gravely and Ghislaine
knew that he was worried. He had been her sole protector for years. No
one else save Richard had ever bothered overmuch for her safety.

She sighed heavily and turned to the fire: "I know that, but there must
be some way to get rid-of this oaf. Mayhap an accident?" Her hopeful
tone caused Edwin to take a step closer and grip her shoulders in his
hands.

Gently he turned her back to face him.

Edwin had been the one constant person in her life. There had been a
time when Ghislaine had thought of him as more than a friend, but that
had passed years ago. They had settled into a relationship based on
trust and respect.

It didn't blind them to each other's faults, however. For some months,
Ghislaine had sensed a change in Edwin. A restlessness seemed to have
taken a grip on his soul and she had often caught him staring into the
distant hills.

His anxiety was mirrored in his fathomless grey e. yes. "You would be
dead before you finished the thought." His grim expression softened a
little as he saw the fear that lay behind her suspiciously bright eyes.

"Do not anger him, lady. He is a knight with rough ways and a bad
temper.

If you value your life, look to his needs quickly."

"Good advice, lady. I hope that you heed him this time."

Ghislaine whirled round to face her husband smilir down at her benignly.

"You were listening," she accuse glaring at him.

"Did you have something to hide? There will be 1 secrets between us,
wife." His gaze travelled to Edwi "And this, I take it; is your partner
in crime?"

Ghislaine did not even deign to reply, but watched fascination as the
two men assessed each other the oughly. They were matched in size,
although as Edw was younger his body did not have the same strength de
Courcy's. Her husband did not scowl, but seemed have come to some
decision.

"The Earl informed me. you were a skilled marks ma Does he have the
right of it?"

Edwin crossed his arms over his chest and nodded.

"He was also under the impression that you h some  ...  er.. idifficulty
with our language."

Edwin sniffed derisively.

"There was never anythin could say that would have changed his view of
me," said finally.

"His men had no problem communicati with me."

His pride was shining from his swollen eyes, but did not seem much like
a man in love with his wi concluded Guy. In fact, he appeared to treat
her mu like a brother would. With this thought in mind, voiced his
decision.

"You would swear fealty to me t! night?" he demanded.

"I would ask no more of you tt Lady Ghislaine does, except that you
would ride ~ my men when I need you."

"And his alternative?" Ghislaine demanded angrily. Guy shrugged
carelessly.

"I would send him to Earl for trial for crimes of the venison. I am sure
t~ evidence could be produced."

Edwin rubbed his hand over his beard and looked at him speculatively.

"Would I be paid?"

Ghislaine gasped. He was going to accept the outlaw for a few coins.

"Aye. The same as my men. A silver mark a month, with food and a share
of any treasure taken." Guy smiled slowly. So he had his price after
all.

Ghislaine, he had to admit, looked more thunderstruck than heartsore.

"I accept." Their eyes locked for a moment until Ghislaine, incensed by
what. she saw as Edwin's defection, interrupted.

"Excuse me whilst I go to organise the servants. No doubt there are
still some who wish to do my bidding.! With her eyes full of anger.

and her cheeks pink, Ghislaine whirled around. Her flourish was marred
somewhat by her tripping on the long monk's robe she still wore, but she
cared not.

Edwin watched Ghislaine's stiff and clumsy retreat before turning back
to his new liege-lord.

"If you harm her, I will kill you myself." -So saying, he picked up his
bow and quit the hall

"It would seem-that your bride has made a full recovery," stated Arnaud
with aft impish grin. He was lounging idly against the wall, watching
Guy's face.

Guy half turned towards him and grunted in response, pondering a little
more on the curious relationship between his wife and her man-servant.
He had a feeling that the Englishman was going to be less trouble than
his wife.

"She inspires much loyalty, this wife of yours. If two grown men are so
keen to defend her, it may be wise to treat her with perhaps a touch
more  ...  ah courtesy."

3 / "Do you think I am afeared of them?" Guy asked impatiently.

"Nay," came the guarded reply, "But it would not harm you to scowl at
her less."

"She does not appear afraid," Guy pointed out gruffly. He did not like
his shortcomings being emphasised quite so obviously.

Arnaud's silence was most eloquent.

"I had no choice," he continued, his growl returning. "Were her
behaviour and tongue more ladylike, she would not be in this position
either."

"Aye, true enough," agreed Arnaud amicably. Clearly he would win no
ground with that approach. He decided to change tack.

"It would do no harm to keep the lady sweet, though. We do not want to
sniff the ale every time we have a thirst." That found its mark, and Guy
sighed wearily.

"I did not want to be married to her. She was not my choice."

So that was what irked him. He had gained a good estate but the bride
was not to his taste.

"She is not that sore on the eyes," he pointed out pleasantly.

"The girl it perhaps not young but seems healthy enough."

"She has red hair," growled Guy, pushing his black hair back off his
face in frustration, 'and a tongue like a viper."

"Ah." Arnaud smiled to himself. It looked like things were going to be
interesting. If his memory served him aright, Guy had never hesitated to
choose a willing wench with red hair to warm his bed before. But perhaps
the root of the problem lay in a slightly different direction. Lady
Ghislaine was, after all, no camp follower and Guy was not used to
dealing with ladies. It w. as possible that his friend felt very much at
a disadvantage.

No doubt the rejection from Lady Margaret had played some part in all
this.

"Then maybe we should search out some of that ale before she filis it
with her venom," he grinned; pushing himself away from the wall.

Guy grinned back before slapping him on the back in good humour.

"Maybe she would prefer your silver tongue: The Earl mentioned she
prefers blonds."

Guy held his tongue throughout the ordeal of being presented to all the
servants and vassals that inhabited the manor. His wife appeared
reasonable, although he could tell from the noises her stomach was
making that the girl was starving.

When they finally sat down at the 1ord's ~able in the plain, square
hall, Guy knew relief, although he did remember to sniff the ale before
he tasted it.

As he did so, his eyes locked with those of Arnaud's. Each raised a cup
in toast before tossing the spicy liquid back.

Amazed that-he still lived, Guy tasted the venison and boar at his
wife's bidding, as well as the fine white bread and nuts that she had
brought to him specially. Grudgingly he admitted that the food was most
acceptable, and with Arnaud's warning still ringing in his ears, Guy
complimented his wife on the banquet.

"I am most impressed with the fare, lady. It is some time since we have
eaten so well." He managed a nervous smile.

His words were received with little more than a raised eyebrow.

"Most gracious, my lord."

As his wife was clearly not going to continue the

conversation, Guy racked his brains to think of something else to engage
her interest. He was pleased to see her drink freely of the ale.

"A fine brew, lady."

"I made it myself, sir. I am most pleased you find it to your liking."

He did not miss the sarcasm behind her expression, but was surprised to
see her toss back another skinful of ale. ~ "What other accomplishments
do you possess, lady?" His question caused a deep flush to steal upwards
from her neck.

"I. ~.I had thought the Earl would have given you a complete inventory
of my accomplishments, Sir Guy? Her eyes remained fixed on the table
before them and it' irritated him that she would not look him in the
eye.

"Aye," came his grave response, "But I do not always set much store by
what Hugh d'avranches says."

Such treasonable words caused her dark eyes to fly to his face. And
~they were very expressive eyes, Guy noted, At the moment they were
trying to suppress what appeared to be amusement.

"I will confess, sir, that most of what he says is true. You have, I
fehr, landed yourself with a most unladylike wife," To his complete
surprise Ghislaine rounded off her words by drinking more 'ale.

Guy looked a[ her flushed cheeks. Arnaud was right. She was quite
comely, and he remembered thinking when he had held her earlier that she
had felt g9od. He turned his attention to his food to divert the train
of his thoughts. This was one woman he would not be bedding.

He wanted no wife and she wanted to be in the convent. Well, so be it.
Once this charade was over, the marriage could be annulled and they
could all return to normal.

Despite his best efforts to entertain his wife, the girl proceeded to
drink greater quantities of the ale. Somewhat deflated by being so
ignored by a woman, Guy turned his attention to Sir Brian, who regaled
him with tales of Ghislaine's father.

From the corner of his eye, he watched Ghislaine sink into a most
unladylike stupor, and if he guessed aright, she would soon be
collapsing into oblivion.

Arnaud was right 'again, it seemed. The girl was so afeared of him, she
would drink herself t~ sleep on her wedding night. He ought to have put
her fears to rest on that point before now; Well, that would have to
wait till the morrow.

He rose quickly and picked up his wife in what seemed to ~the assembled
company to~ be a lover-like gesture of consideration. Sir Brian tottered
to his feet, clearly unsure of his move.

"Rest easy, Sir Brian. My wife has had a long day. I will see to her
comfort." Guy tried hard not to scowl and after a moment, the knight
nodded curtly and sat down, Guy reached the steps that led to the lord's
room -in three strides but was prevented from mounting them by Edwin.
From his expression, the Englishman was not to be so easily dismissed.
Guy sighed heavily.

"Your loyalty does you credit, but I can assure you that she will have
no hurt from me." They both looked at the sleeping Ghislaines and Gu~
could have sworn that he saw a glimmer of regret cross the cold grey
eyes of the Englishman. Silently, Edwin stood back to let them pass.

CHAPTER FIVE.

A LOUD groan brought Ghislaine unwillingly from her strange dreams.

It was a moment or two before she realised that the noise had come from
her own lips, and that the terrible throbbing in her head and sick
feeling' in her stomach made her want to retch~ Had she truly done this
to herself?

"A sound beyond the bed caused Ghislaine to lever the upper part of her
body gingerly into a sitting position. She wished she hadn't.

"Awake at last, my lady?" Effie,s normally soft tones grated violently
against her aching head~ Ghislaine raised her hands to her head and
thought she w~is going to be sick.

"Sir Guy said to give you this when you woke. He thought it would help."
That her maid sounded dubious was an understatement, but at that moment,
Ohislaine would not have cared had the girl said 'it contained lethal
poison.

She took the goblet. and swallowed the contents. It tasted disgusting.

"He said you would most likely be sick, but that you would feel better
for it."

"Sir Guy is not here?" Ghislaine~s bleary eyes slid around the bare room
suspiciouly, noting a heavy dent in the mattress by her side.

"Oh, no, my lady. He was up some time ago." Effie tossed back her thick
blonde braids and her blue eyes regarded her in a thinly veiled rebuke.

"He went to the kitchen himself to make the potion." Admiration was
shining from her eyes and had Ghislaine felt less like death, she would
have done more than give her a sickly moan. She refused to contemplate
how he had managed the volatil~ cook, Elfrieda. ~ Guy's prediction about
her condition was sadly accurate, and when she was finally able to quit
the privy,.

Ghislaine could do no more than sink back into a few hours more of
dreamless relief.

When next she awoke, the sun was much higher and from the sounds
outside, Ghislaine could tell that she had stayed abed far longer than
usual. Dappled light shone through the rickety shutters, penetrating the
thick gloom of the lord's room. She was alone.

The violent nausea and throbbing headache had been replaced by symptoms
that were 'easier to cope with. Stretching back on the hard bolster,
Ghislaine pondered her state. She had absolutely no recollection of how
she had arrived here, and, far worse, what had happened to her when she
had. The large dip in the bed by her side informed her that Guy had
slept there too.

There was an aura about the place that even smelled 'of his black soul.

Hesitantly, Ghislaine drew back the blankets, and it was~ with some
relief that the white sheets proclaimed her innocence. At least he had
spoke0 true about his intention to keep her for the abbey. It seemed,
for now at any rate, her innocence was safe, but how long that would
endure she could not guess.

Slowly she slipped from the sheets of the large bed and pulled a
threadbare blanket about her shoulders. Her eyes were drawn back to the
bed. She knew what 'happened between a man and a woman, and judging by
the whispered giggles Of her servants, it was a pleasr able experience.
But the thought of experienci~ pleasure in the arms of that murderer
drew a shudd from her cold body.

A shout outside made her venture to the window a: pull back the shutters
a little. Judging by the sun, would be dose to midday and she should be
about 1~ duties. Consumed by curiosity Ghislaine leaned f( ward to watch
the activities below without bei observed.

Small groups of unfamiliar men were setting tot repairs of the palisade,
'clearing rubbish and rethatchi: the stable roof. All Of-these were
vital jobs that h father had refused to take in hand, and Sir Brim
indifferent health had allowed the state of the manor deteriorate over
the course of several years. Desp her pleas for many improvements and
repairs, little h been done. Ghislaine watched with open-mouth amazement
at the scene below her. It was hard believe that the instructions had
come from her h~ band, for she was certain that he had little per sol
experience of running a manor.

No, she decided final The orders were most likely to have come from .

Arnaud, but Ghislaine found it intriguing to think tt Guy de Courcy
would allow his trained mercenaries expend their energies on such lowly
tasks.

A st/dden glimpse of~ Arnaud d'everard caus Ghislaine to step back
quickly and retreat into' safety of the bedchamber, reminding herself
that." would have to face them all soon. No doubt she 1oo[ and smelled
as if she had spent the night in the byre.

Despite her plan to give Guy de Courcy a disgust her, Ghislaine cohld
not deny herself the comfort c bath. When she sank back into the tub, a
sense of well-being and comfort stole through her. This was a luxury she
had not often been permitted by her father, but for once Ghislaine had
been determined to choose something for herself. If Guy de Courcy did
not approve, he would have to tell her himself. Sighing, Ghislaine
attempted to put all thoughts of her husband to one side. It was not to
be.

"You are recovered, I see."

Ghislaine turned rapidly, causing water to splash over the edge of the
tub and her cheeks to flush~ The object of her thoughts had materialised
silently at the door of the bedchamber, an expression of cool
indifference on his dark face.

Ghislaine's lips tightened and her brain desperately tried to work
convincingly.

"Your concern is most gratifying, Sir Guy, but not at all necessary. My
partiality for ale is well known and my body used to the effects." She
then proceeded to affect complete indifference to his presence and
smeared dollops of the sweet-scented soap onto her arms before sinking
as low as she could into the tub.

Guy's lack of interest wavered somewhat on hearing those words. His
wife's voice was attractive when she wasn't shooting venom at him.

Low and husky. But why she should tell him a'blatant lie about her
drinking habits had him foxed. The girl could be most vexing. He closed
the stiff door behind him and took a few more paces into the semi-dark
room. The two candles flickering in the prickets offered little light.
Her frugality, at least, was a welcome sight.

"I had not realised that drinking ale was one of your o.~ vices, lady,~
His eyes fixed On the soft white curves of her shoulders.

"Have you any others.9' Unwilling to look 'up at him, Ghislaine missed
the glint in his eyes and the underlying meaning of his question. Oh,
many," she replied airily as she splashed the water over her shoulders~
"I am known to be a ...  glutton, too," Guy raised an eyebrow.

"There was not much evidence of that last night." He tried to picture
his wife's figure ~but could only recall her telling him she was not
noted for her delicate size. She had not felt a great weight in his arms
either, but even as he p~uzzled over her words, he took another step or
so forward, ' "I was hoping that you would beer. rested enough to show
me th~ estate." His eyes followed the hand that was busy soaping her
shoulders in gentle, ~ almost caressing movements. As her hand moved
lower, so did his eyes. Just below the water-line he could see the swell
of her rounded breasts. His throat went dry as he recalled that it had
been some time since he had tumbled a woman. His black scowl returned.
He was acting like a young boy.

"I am sure that Sir Brian would be most happy to show you
Chapmonswiche," she said coolly, still refusing to look at him-" ~ His
scowl deepened. He was not going to be dismissed' like a lackey in his
own home by this arrogant.

wench. ' "Given the sudden nature of our marriage and my reputation, I
had thought you would prefer your people to see you unharmed at my Side.

No doubt you know them better than I."

His words caused he rto still and finally to look up at him.

"Are you afeared that they will balk against the Earl's choice of
husband for me?"

His lips tightened in anger at her superior tone. He should have known
she would parry words with him and it was irritating beyond belief.

"I have naught to fear," he snapped, 'but should you do aught to incur
my wrath, then you will have my hand to fear, lady."

So that was how it was to be. The cool way her eyes regarded him and her
quick tongue had riled him so much he had let his temper take over. Were
he to stay in the chamber a minute more, he would surely put his threat
into practice. No dsubt even the befuddled Sir Brian would have a better
understanding of the estate anyway.

Ghislaine heard rather than saw' Sir Guy's angry exit and she released
the breath that she had been holding. For a few moments in his presence
she had forgotten that he was a murderer of women, and his threats had
sounded no more serious than those of her father. But if she valued her
life, she must be more wary of him.

The rain had started to fall not long after she had slipped away from
the manor~ and ridden into the village. There were the plough! ng
arrangements for the coming months to be discussed with the head
villager and Ghislaine had also convinced herself that she wanted advice
on herbal remedies from the old Angle crone, Hulda. She had thought Sir
Guy unlikely to interfere with the general running of the estate
immediately, and had seized on the excuse to escape the manor for an
hour or so. She doubted that her presence would be missed for some time,
everyone believing that she was dose ted in the bedchamber.

She had donned her oldest tunic and braided her hair deftly in a style
more practical than becoming. -Briefly, Ghislaine wondered if she should
take more care over her appearance in deference to her newly married
status, but finally decided against it. All her gowns were old and worn
and she was certain that her husband was indifferent to her looks in any
case. He had married her for her value as ward of the Earl and for her
estate after all.

Pulling on her leather shoes, Ghislaine noticed a new hole in the seam
and sighed. Well, it could not be helped. Her father had believed any
spare money better spent elsewhere.

"She had no reason to suppose that Guy de Courcy would think
differently.

It had been easy enough to slip unnoticed from the hall, and as few of
de Courcy's men had cast barely a glance in her direction, Ghislaine was
able to lead her grey palfrey from the stable to the gatehouse
unquestioned. To her own guard she only needed a smile and. a nod and
she had been given her usual free passage. Her husband had not forbidden
her to leave exactly, but she knew that he would not be pleased by her
absence. Still, as he would never know, it would do no real harm.

The village was Sited no more than a short ride due south from the
manor, close by a stream of sweet water. Boasting no more than about
twenty families, the inhabitants provided little revenue for the manor,
but were peaceful and friendly. Survival was based largely on a mixture
of crops, cattle and pigs. Last year her father had bought some sheep
and Ghislaine was hopeful that they would breed successfully and bring
in some money for the wool clip

The village huts were clustered around' the muddy track that led
directly to the old Roman road linking Chester with the North. The
villagers muttered their congratulations to her but were plainly at a
loss as to why her husband was not at her side.

Offering a few hasty excuses about Sir Guy being detained on personal
matters, Ghislaine hurried about her business.

Hulda lived at the far end of the village, a little apart from the rest.

Respected by the others for her knowledge of cures and herbals; she was
also a little feared. Some believed her to practise the old pagan rites
of the Angles who had settled here before the Normans came, but
Ghiglaine dismissed such views as foolish. She had harmed no one and
~aved many. She had saved Edwin: According to her brother, it had been
Hulda who had saved the ten, year-old Edwin from the swords of the
Norman soldiers whilst they hunted down any land-owning Englishmen who
opposed the Conqueror.

They had attacked the village ten years ago, killing the Angle thegn and
his two elder sons. The youngest, Edwin, was left writhing in agony from
his vicious wounds. When the soldiers had finished burning and. looting,
they took turns in raping his mother and sister. Both died from their
injuries.

Were it not for Hulda's skills, Edwin would have also succumbed.

When John de Launay had been made lord of the manor. two years later.

Edwin had already grown into a strong, surly lad who had been brought up
by Hulda as if he were her own. No one in the manor knew of his
aristocratic parentage, nor of his vow to kill the Norman dogs who had
violated his mother and sister. No one except Ghislaine and her brother,
Richard, and they had come by that knowledge painfully.

What had started off as a childish game had ended in O~

unexpected violence. Ghislaine and Richard had often roamed the ~orest
beyond the village, exploring, trapping and indulging in youthful
fantasies of adventure. One day, Richard had discovered a thin youth
tampering with their' trap and immediately challenged him. Instead of
turning tail and running, the boy had launched himself at Richard. All
the venom and hatred Edwin had bottled within him had poured out, and
Ghislaine had been certain that he truly would kill Richard. BUT when
Richard's arm had snapped Edwin had turned pale. He had carried Richard
to Hulda's hut where she had done what she could for-the arm. It was
there that they had learned of Edwin's past and his vow. It was there
the three of them had forged a bond that would endure~ ~ Ghislaine still
remembered that first afternoon inside the dark hut.

The smell of the herbs was overwhelming, pungent and yet wholesome.

Everywhere there were bunches of the different plants drying, boi}ing,
steeping. Strange pots crowded the table and floor, and it was hard to
know where to stand.

As she looked through the open doorway, it was as if she were once again
that tearful maid of eleven. Little had changed except that Ghislaine
was older and, of course, married to a Stranger.

"So. You've come, then?" A thin voice floated out from the gloom.

"I

wasn't expecting you so soon."

Hulda's grey, lined face peered up at her, the dark eyes missing
nothing.

She had few teeth left and rarely smiled, so a curt nod was an
affectionate enough greeting.

"You'd best come inside afore the rain sets in."

"Elfrieda thinks she's with child again, so she'll be needing some of
your potion." Ghislaine idly picked up a bunch of herbs and sniffed them
appreciatively. It was a comforting, homely sort of a smell that
reminded her of her mother.

Hulda grunted, shuffling to the back of the hut. "What she needs is a
husband."

Ghislaine shrugged her shoulders.

"Aye, but none will have her now.

Besides, she's a good cook." She replaced the herbs carefully on the
table.

A deep sniff was the only answer Ghislaine received as the old woman
sorted through her jars. She cannot use it again, tell her. She may not
carry her full time else."

"Aye. FI1 tell her," said Ghislaine dubiously, taking the potion
offered; Hulda said no more, but carried on with her chopping and
steeping, her face cloaked in the darkness of the hu/.

"Have you spoken to Edwin since yestereve?"

"The question seemed innocent enough, but Hu!da smiled to herself.

"Aye. He was here not long afore you came."

"So you know?~ The disappointment was genuine.

"That you married a Norman and that Edwin takes a silver coin each month
to buy his freedom? Aye/' " Why should he want his freedom? He has all
he needs with us."

Ghislaine frowned, knowing the answer and knowing she sounded like a
petulant child.

"His destiny is not with you,. girl. He has always known that and it
has' not gone easy with him. Let him be now."

Pushing her braids back over her shoulders Ghislaine turned to stare at
the chickens squawking outside the hut. Edwin had always been there,
watched over her, ELI~. Ai~11~ 1 H HI~N~HA LL aye, and had always loved
her. Her feelings for him, however, were those of a sister for a
brother, and Edwin had never tried to change her mind. Sometimes
though," she had caught him watching her. There had beei~ such longing
and passion burning in his eyes and she had been so lonely that once or
twice Ghislaine had been sorely tempted to find ou! about passion in his
arms. Yielding to the temptation, however, would surely ha~,e signed his
death warrant, since the Earl would brook no such liaisons and marriage
would have been out of the question.

Catching her bottom lip between her teeth, Ohislaine turned back to
Hulda.

"I will miss him sorely. He is my only friend." Her voice was full of
hurt and misery and Hulda was not proof against the young girl anguisff.

"He has to go, girl. It is time for him to start his journey, but he
will return when he is at peace. You must be strong for him." Hulda's
dark eyes burned into her and Ghislaine knew the woman was right.

"There is much for you to do here."

Grimacing, Ghislaine looked across at the old womam "You have the right
of it. Sir Guy's men are little more th~n a pack of wild animals and I
have no doubt that trouble will come soon.."

Hulda paused for a moment and looked across at her. "It seems to me
they've done more in a day than your father did in years. The blacksmith
says his roof has already been rethatched and there's plans afoot to
take a look at that stinking moat. Don't be too quick to condemn, my
lady."

Managing a wan smile, Ghislaine picked up the potion for Elfrieda and
left the hut. She was heartsore and in need of a friend. Knowing that
Edwin was planning to buy his own freedom made her feel even more
trapped. The only freedom she would find was in the convent.

The effects of the previous night's indulgence were beginning to take
their toll on her once more, and Ghislaine found herself loathe to
return to the manor just yet. The rain had stopped and the cool silence
of the forest beckoned. According to Hulda, Edwin had taken the path in
that direction and, if he was not going too fast, she could probably
catch him. Ghislaine knew all his secret hiding places and she wanted to
talk to him without her husband's eyes on her.

She had reached the first line of trees when the rain came suddenly in
thick gusts of wind that soaked her cloak and her tunic within moments.
The bitter cold froze her skin, and Ghislaine knew that she would have
to find Shelter or she would catch the fever that often killed
travellers in this area.

The large, bare trees overhead offered little protection from the rain
but did prevent the light from penetrating the darkness of the
undergrowth.

Ghislaine could see only a few feet in front of her with the rain
driving into her eyes. Cursing herself for her foolishness, she made her
way towards the stream where there was a woodcutter's bothy nearby.

Gratefully she took refuge in the meagre hut but was disappointed not to
find Edwin there. Despite the holes in the thatch and broken shutters,
Ghislaine was able to keep out most of the wet.

It was nigh on an hour later when the rain finally abated, and the light
was failing. She felt so cold that all she could hear was the chattering
of her teeth.

Her horse, Morwenna, greeted her with a friendly snicker as she patted
her gently on the neck. For a brief moment, Ghislaine listened to the
sounds of the forest, but all she could hear w~s the stream and the
dripping of the raindrops on the sodden earth. The fresh Smell of wet
vegetation was everywhere. She was impatient to get back and worried
that Guy de icourcy would discover her absence. He had threatened
physical punishment if his commands were disobeyed and she was certain
he would carry them out.

The mud prevented her from pushing on at speed, and as the dark gathered
in, Ghislaine became increasingly concerned. Her impetuosity had once
more landed her in a potentially dangerous situation, although she did
not really imagine herself to be at risk.

Her position had always been a form of protection, for most knew of
their lack of money. Few robbers would risk their lives on her. Yet, as
the wife of a mercenary, Ghislaine realised belatedly that she now had
much greater ransom value. Fear began to creep into her mind. It would
also be-one way of eliminating an unwanted wife without troubling the
Earl's conscience.

Would Guy de Courcy stoop so low?

Ghislaine did not know but a tiny voice inside her said he was not to be
trusted. He had murdered Margaret. At least, he had not denied it as
vehemently as she would have expected an innocent man to do. She
shivered, for suddenly she was very cold.

Behind her a twig snapped and Ghislaine froze. She could see nothing but
she sensed she was being watched. Her heart was thudding as she drew her
horse to a standstill, afraid of plunging headlong into an ambush. To
her right, a bird fluttered suddenly from the undergrowth and she almost
jumped out of the saddle. Icy fear crept along her spine. No one knew
she was here and she would not be missed if she were attacked. Was this
how. her father had been

Turning her head nervously to the place the bird had flown from,
Ghislaine was sure she had picked up the furtive moventents of her
hidden enemy.

Dismounting carefully, she peered into the undergrowth.

The indistinct outline of two shadowy figures darted from place to
place.

Dressed in green and brown, they blended in. well with their
surroundings, and Ghislaine felt the cold hand of terror squeeze at her
pounding heart.

Should she risk riding on or try to slip silently from their grasp by
playing them at their own: game

The decision was wrenched cruelly from her hands by a sudden whinny from
her horse. Clearly unsettled by the tense atmosphere enveloping them,
Morwenna stamped skittishly amongst the 'leaves and mud, her head
rearing anxiously.

Even as'ghislaine turned back to calm the horse, she could hear the men
advancing quickly upon them. She had no choice but to mount and ride,
despite her lack of time. Trying to haul herself clumsily over
Morwenna's back, Ghislaine looked over her shoulder to see the first man
emerging from the undergrowth, his arrow already poised for flight. She
knew she was doomed bt~t still reached desperately to pull herself up.

Quicker than she had expected, the low hum of an arrow in flight reached
her ears and Ghislaine braced herself for [he inevitable pain. But it
never came. Instead, a piercing shriek broke the eerie silence of the
forest, followed by a heavy thud. Risking a glance, Ghislaine saw her
attacker felled by an arrow in his back. There was no sign of his
companion. but she did not wait to find out what had happened to him.

Her palfrey bolted from her hiding place as if the devil himself were
behind her. Twigs and branches tore at Ghislaine's hair and cloak.

Behind she could hear shouts and then the steady thud-of a horse in
pursuit.

As she looked over her shoulder, she saw them. A dark cloak atop a dark
horse. There was naught else to see, but she would not stop to look
further for the distance between them was closing.

She did not see the low-hanging branch that knocked her from. the
saddle, but she felt the pain ~in her arm and shoulder as she hit the
ground with a heavy thud. For a moment she heard and saw nothing save a
soft whirring before her eyes and a light-headed feeling that lifted
slowly.

Two blue eyes bore into her, a mixture of relief and anger apparent.

"This is not so easily remedied, lady," came a low threat.

Ghislaine raised an 'eyebrow. She was most surprised to find her head
propped up on her husband's lap, his st~rong arm under her neck. She did
not immediately feel the need to move away for his huge hands had
started to move along the length of her arms and legs, presumably to
locate any serious injuries. She could not prevent her cheeks from
burning; no man had ever done such a thing before.

"I am not hurt," she assured him, unable to look him in the eyes: When
Ghislaine attempted to sit up, however, she saw stars before her eyes
and the buzzing in her ears grew louder.

"You will be," he muttered as he picked her up, far more gently than she
had thought possible for such an oaf. Her weight seemed no great thing
to him as he strode towards his warhorse. There were eight of his men in
the clearing, their eyes taking a good look at her this time. Edwin
stood by the destrier, the expression on his face implacable. She was
dumped less gently into the Englishman's arms whilst her champion eased
himself into the saddle, Edwin regarded her steadily without a word, and
his rebuking silence was worse than his bite.

Ghislaine began to shiver, whether in fear or as a result of the cold it
did not seem to matter. Her desire to have some time to herself now
seemed so childish and pointless, but she was sure that she was going to
pay for her foolishness nonetheless.

"I would thank you for your timely arrival my lord. Had you not killed
the brigand, I am sure I would now be dead."

Guy'~s eyes narrowed.

"I killed no one, lady. Where was this?"

Ghislaine frowned in confusion.

"Back down the path. ! thought ..."

Her words were interrupted by de Courcy's swift orders to five of his
men.

They charged off in search of her attackers. If the mercenaries had not
saved her, then who had? She was pas~ed back to Guy as if she were no
more than a sack of grain. Her husband's arms gripped her like wet
leather straps as they rode swiftly back to the manor. Dark was setting
in as they crossed the drawbridge. Guy had said nothing to her on the
journey back and she surmised that he was going to say it all on their
return.

When her husband had dismounted, he pulled Ghislaine once more into his
arms and stormed into the hall." She saw nothing save the lights of the
wall sconces and concerned faces. The smell of cooking food permeated
the entire building but she guessed aright when she thought she was not
to savour any this night. Guy crossed the hall to the steps leading to
the 1ord's bedchamber, but Sir Brian was there before him. Whatever he
had been about to say, he did not say it; the look in Guy's eyes told
him all. A look flashed between them and Sir Brian stepped aside.

As they mounted the stairs, Ghislaine's heart began to thud. He had
threatened her with a beating if she did not behave and it looked as if
he were going to show her the mettle of his Words. Daring to look up at
his grim face,. Ghislaine's fears grew.

She was dumped on the bed as Guy paced the room. A good fire burned in
{he stone grate and yet another tub of hot water steamed in the corner.
Three baths in two days!

"Why did you leave?" The question was spat out as her husband stared
down at her; hands on his hips.

Ghislaine gulped. Her throat had constricted and her brain seemed to
have ceased functioning

"I  ...  I had thought to. spend a little time on my own." His black
frown was not encouraging. She sighed nervously and began to push her
wet hair from her face.

"If you want the truth," she began, deciding he at least deserved the
truth, "I was afeared and I had gone in search of Edwin."

He. looked huge, looming above her, his dark hair wet and curling at the
edges, his unshaven face rough and threatening.

"Afeared? I had not thought it, lady."

Did she detect a. hint of irritation at these words? He was glaring at
her, his anger barely kept at bay, watching as she pulled l~erself to
her feet.

At least she was on a level with the man and could face him as an equal.

"If I did w~ong, then tell me now, for I am unused to dealing with men
such as you." Such plain~ spoken words -had an instant effect on her
husband.

"I mean to do more than tell you, lady. You had fair warning earlier
this day." He advanced towards the bed, his mouth set in a hard line.

Ghislaine backed away, her heart racing.

"I had not thought to anger you," she replied with less confidence.

"It would seem you did not think at all. There are all manner of men
searching for me, including Margaret Staveley's family. Dettingham is
baying for revenge and as my wife you would make a god substitute.

Nowhere is safe, girl. Were you hacked to pieces in the woods,~no one
would know."

His concern took her by surprise.

"I did not think I Would be missed," she whispered miserably.

That earned a derisive snort.

"My protection depends on your well-being, lady, and I do not intend to
lose what I have due~ to your whims and carelessness."

That put her in her place. Ghislaine gave him a fulminating~ stare but
the effect was marred somewhat by her bedraggled appearance. She would
take her punishment with grace and dignity and in no way would she give
him any satisfaction.

"Now, do you set yourself on my knee or do I force you?" From the look
on his face, her husband was perfectly serious. The choice was hers, and
much as she did not like giving in to him without a fight, it would go
ill for her otherwise. Ignoring his hand, Ghislaine stomped to stand
before him, ~her chin high in indignation."

He sat on the edge of the bed and pulled her over his thighs, Distress'
and shame burned through her whole body. He would regret this, she vowed
with heartfelt anger.

Sudden Is she felt his hand lifting her skirt.

"Nay," she gasped as she realised his intention.

"Do not do this." Her voice told him of her misery and her complete
distress, Her hand tried to pull her sk{rts back down, but he held her
still, It was not until he had pulled her skirts up to her waist that he
realised why she had suddenly begun to struggle.

The sight of her uncovered bottom stilled him as nothing else would.

The girl wore no undergarments and he had not expected it. Aye, he had
seen how poorly she was clothed, but he had not thought she would be as
naked. as a servant under her dress.

His eyes were drawn to the sight of her soft, rounded hips and shapely
legs, and he held his breath: How could he have kn~ownl that under those
ugly garments, the woman hid such a body? He gave into the desire to
touch that soft, white skin and felt her shudder. His reaction was
instant.

Ghislaine found herself spr~awling in the rushes at the foot of the bed,
completely confused by her husband's actions. He had done nothing other
than stroke her so gently she could hardly feel it, and then he had
pushed her roughly to the. ground. In that, at least, he was consistent.

"If you leave the manor once more without an escort,. lady, you will
surely feel pain the next time." His threat was issued as he strode
towards the door, and without a backwards glance, stormed down the
stairs. Ghistaine was left on the floor to contemplate her husband's
strange behaviour

CHAPTER SIX.

EFFIE'S gentle hand roused her from her sleep, and as the mists cleared
from her mind, Ghislaine's eyes flew to the other side of the bed. The
fact that it was empty told her much.

"Sir Guy bade me bring you this, my lady." Effie handed her the posset
with a tight smile. No doubt she knew everything that had transpired the
night before. "He was.afeared you had taken a chill and says you are to
rest in bed until he gets back."

"He ordered me to stay in bed?" Ghislaine stared at her maid
incredulously.

The man's arrogance knew no bounds.

"There is naught wrong with me, Effie," she said briskly, attempting to
rise from the bed.

Effie stared at her as if she were mad.

"But he bade you stay there, my lady," she began.

Ghislaine gave her a look that told the girl what she thought of that
particular piece of information.

"Would you bring my clothes, Effie, and stop prating on about what Sir
Guy said?"

Effie's eyes did not look up, and the~ girl looked embarrass eel
Ghislaine stared at such odd behaviour, and then narrowed her eyes in
suspicion.

"My clothes, Effie. Where are they?"

"He took them, my lady. He took them all."

Ghislaine looked at Effie, aghast, It was clear from her expression that
her husband had done just that, but the reason behind such behaviour was
a mystery. She sat back in a huff, her arms folded across her chest, and
sighed heavily. She would have to stay there until he decided otherwise,
and it was most vexing.

"Did he say when he would be back?" Ghislaine demanded with as much all!
hority as she could muster, for in truth she did not feel as if she
carried much weight now. She remembered he had wanted a compliant,
obedient wife.

Effie shook her head as she busied herself about' the bedchamber, but
did not volunteer any more information about her husband. That, too, was
most odd.

Seemingly loyal servants appeared to have traded their allegiances with
little hesitation. She yielded to an unladylike outburst which earned
her a reproving look from Effie.

Her empty stomach reminded Ghislaine that she had not eaten since early
the day before. Her supposition that she would be allowed none of the
evening meal turned out to be correct. She had bathed and then fallen
asleep the minute her head nestled into~ the bolster.

"Am I allowed to break my fast?" Her tone was most haughty. Prisoner or
no, she refused to act like one.

Effie's round cheeks coloured just a little.

"He said something about you weighing so. heavy that' missing a bit of
food would do you no harm, my lady."

Ghislaine received this piece of information with wide-eyed disbelief.
And then her lips twitched a little. Guy de Courcy had thrown her words
back into her face. So, he liked playing games. She nursed this thought
for a while, deciding that it seemed most at odds with her perception of
him so far. That a cold-hearted, oafish mercenary with a growl like a
bear I~Ltlaiie 1 H H E,N ~HA LL O,. ) could have a sense of humour
seemed very unlikely. And yet she could not prevent the smile from
tugging at her lips every so often.

The next few hours were spent in mending and repairing the stockings and
shoes that had been left, but as sewing had never held mu~ch interest
for her, Ghislaine 'fopnd it 'hard to concentrate. Effie and several of
the women servants came to complain about the untidiness and the
lascivious behaviour of her husband's men and she promised to broach the
matter with Sir Guy when she had: the time. It was not a conversation
she would look forward to since her husband did not appear to take
criticism well. It would be best to choose the right time: Idly, she
looked in her mother's carved l wooden chest, which contained her own
meagre possessions. There was' not much to look at since herlfather had
never bestowed gifts upon her and somehow the gathering of pretty
objects seemed unimportant.

Carefully she laid each thing out on the bed before looking at them in
turn.

" Her mother's comb was made of a delicately carved ivory, chased with
gould.

It was so fine that it would never survive combing her' thick curls. She
had also inherited a set of fine 'needles and thread, but these remained
wrapped in their leather case. Amid the muslin parcels of sweet:
smelling lavender, Ghislaine found the leather case that had contained
her mother's jewels/ all long since taken by her father.

Next came her mementoes of Richar& His thick blue tunic that had made
him look so handsome and the bow and arrows he had used as a young boy,
As she stared at these reminders of her family, memories flooded through
her mind and her eyes began to prick with tears.

So absorbed was she by this task that Ghislaine did not hear the door
open and she jumped a foot off the bed in surprise.

"So, lady. I take it you are restored and suffer no ill effects?

Ghislaine whirled round, her anger~m~unting.

"I am like to be lighter without food or clothes. You have kept me
prisoner in my own home and I would like to know the reason." Her eyes
glinted with fury as they rested on the object of her dislike: She stood
before him, hands on hips, a'ressed in a thin, well-patched chemise that
had been clearly made for a smaller girl. Looking for all the world like
a woman possessed, Ghislaine's thick red-gold curls tumbled over her
shoulders in abandon and her eyes, dark and accusing, bore into him. Guy
was rendered silent as he looked at the angry figure of his wife. His
eyes were drawn to the chemise and he was certain that she could have no
idea how worn the material was. It hid nothing from him, for he could
see the clear outlines of her generous curves. His mouth dried at the
sight.

"The reason? I had no desire to waste another day in the forest
searching for you." He watched as she saw the direction of his eyes an~l
the sudden rosy flush that stained her cheeks. Hastily she bent to
snatcha blanket and all but disappeared under it. Her eyes narrowed
accusingly. as a lazy grin broke his scowl.

"I did not ask it of you," she replied bitterly her embarrassment
diminishing.

"I had merely gone to the forest to talk to Edwin." She paused.

"Did you find the men?"

He shook his head.

"Only a body, but that could tell us naught." He slumped down on the bed
and eased his boots from his feet.

"The forest is dangerous. Was your father not murdered there last year?"

"Aye, but we had never felt in danger before. My father would often go
hunting and never come to any trouble."

Guy looked up then, alert, watching her fiddle with the edge of the
blankets.

"You doubt something?"

Ghislaine shook her head slightly.

"It's nothing much, except that fewer attacks had happened here of late.
We had thought the outlaws had moved further north for the richer
pickings.

There are never many travellers round here." What she said made sense
with the information he had managed to gather so' far. Perhaps the
girl's wits were not so addled as he had thought.

"How many men were with him?"

"Three men-at-arms and Peter Stavele. y." The accusing tone in her voice
made him frown.

"They were all killed."

"Peter Stave Icy Kinsman to Margaret?" His eyes held hers.

Ghislaine just nodded. It had been no more than an unfortunate
coincidence, she was certain.

"And-no one was ever caught?" Guy's voice had taken on a speculative
tone.

"Nay. The Earl did not seem much concerned, although Walter spent many
days investigating."

"Walter?" He sensed asoftening of her voice when she mentioned the name.

"De Belleme," she finished.

"He was a  ...  friend of the family."

His eyes bore into her as she stammered out the last sentence. It was
clear thdt he was more than a family friend.

"He found nothing?"

She shook her head.

"He believed the outlaw was Thomas Bollyngton and his men, but there has
been no sight of them these many months."

"I have heard that name before, but who is this Walter de Belleme?"

His dark [ace was now harsh and the dark scowl had returned.

Whoever'the man was, he would not be bothering his wife again.

"I told you. He was  ...  is a family friend. He is dose to the Earl and
has an estate some ten miles to the north of here. He visited frequently
after his wife died."

Guy digested this information in silence. So far the man had made no
attempt to contact Ghislaine, unless she had lied and had ridden out to
meet him in the forest yesterday. It would be interesting to see the man
that had seemingly captured his wife's heart.

His eyes strayed around the. gloomy chamber. In truth, there was not
much to see. The tapestries on the walls were darkened and frayed, and
the two seats before the fire were old and wobbly. There were no rugs
nor floor coverings save the rushes, but these were sweet-smelling.
Noticing the chest was open and that some fripperies lay on the bed, Guy
stood up and sauntered closer.

"Is this yours?" He picked up the box.

Ghislaine looked at his unshod feet with contempt.

"Nay. Richard used that before he went to foster."

"Richard? Another friend of the family?"

She shook her head before snatching the bow from his hands.

"My brother."

The pain in her voice was there for all to hear, and Guy was not
impervious to it. He watched her. jerky movements as she stuffed her
pathetic belongings back into the chest.

"How did he die?"

"Against the Welsh. He was caught l in an ambush nigh on a year.

now." The words she uttered sounded like a sharp rebuke, but Guy had
heard too many bereaved mothers and widows to be fooled " You miss him?"
: Ghislaine looked at him then, before nodding her reply. The dark face
was not scowling, but was softer than she had ever seen it before.

"He-was the only one who ever talked to me." The words were said simply
but with such feeling that Guy almost gave into his instinct to soften a
little towards her. But comfort was not what his wife needed

"Was he a better shot than you?" Guy indicated the bow, Ghislaine
struggled 'for a moment about the impropriety of admitting she could
use-one more than adequately.

"Absolutely not," Guy's lips twisted in an attempt to rel~ress a smile.
"Maybe I should be enlisting you to my army., Ghislaine could not help a
tiny smile from breaking. her resistance, for she was not proof against
the most dazzling smile she had ever seen in a man. The blue eyes were
alight and his teeth were perfect.

Helene had been right, for underneath all that hair her husband was very
handsome.

For a moment their eyes locked and Ghislaine found that her heart began
to beat faster. She also found that her stomach began to protest loudly.

To her profound consternation, Guy just laughed.

"I

think your punishment has lasted long enough, lady. I bid you come to
the hall to break your fast."

Mortified' by her stomach and by his humiliating reaction, Ghislaine
glared at him, her cheeks pink.

"Do you wish me to parade myself as I am?" she hissed.

"Or will you return my clothes?"

Guy pulled her drabbest tunic from under his cloak and threw it at her,
his expression blank once again. He was most changeable in his mood this
husband of hers.

"I will give you this one gown, the others when I see fit," Ghislaine
stared at him open-mouthed.

"So I am still a prisoner?"

She did not think she could contain her anger.

He looked at her and raked his hands through his black hair.

"Yo~ have been more trouble these last few days than my entire army. I
doubt that either of us will survive."

He looked so perplexed that Ghislaine felt immense satisfaction, but 'it
lasted only seconds.

"You will not leave the manor walls without my permission first and only
then accompanied by two of my men-at-arms. And do not think you will be
able to smile your way out, for your men have been warned that should
you ever ~lip out again the. guard responsible will be hanged." He
returned her defiant stare with a tight-lipped observation.

"You will obey me in this."

"I do not understand," she began.

"Why must I leave with your men? If it is a question of safety, my men
have always protected me." Ghislaino raised her chin a little, defying
him to challenge her words. "Precisely because they are your men," he
retorted, taking a step closer to her.

"I need to be sure of, your safety and your  ...  loyalty."

His meaning was not lost on her. ~Loy~ltyv she spat.

"I am not at all sure what I am supposed to be loyal to as your
treatment of me hardly deserves my unquestioned obedienc~ either."

Why those Words had slipped out, Ghislaine had no idea, but, they
propelled her husband into action, She suddenly found her wrist gripped
by an iron fist and pulled into a solid chest. He smelled of the forest
and horses, and it was not as awful as she had thought.

His free hand 'came to rest under her chin and her head pushed back as
he looked deep into her eyes.

"I had thought that you preferred the convent to the pleasures of the
flesh, lady, but if you wish me to make you truly my wife, it can b~
arranged." His shadowed face lowered menacingly as he pulled he~ body
flat against his.

There was nothing between them now save a few layers of cloth: Breathing
seemed to have ceased for both of them, and it' was with great
difficulty that Ghislaine managed to draw back a little.

"Take your hands off me, you great brute. I do not deserve this
treatment." ' "Do not deserve this? Lady~ you push your luck." As he
looked down at her, his eyes caught hers again and he could feel her
soft curves pressing into his body, His body responded as if it had been
lit on fire, but this time Guy de Courcy could not fight it, nor did he
want to. ~ His lips touched hers with a softness she did not expect.
They brushed her mouth again and then, without warning, his hand slid up
to the back of her neck and lifted her mouth to his. Ghislaine found her
lips being stormed relentlessly, his lips moving possessiv ly over hers,
exploring, tasting.

His other hand lowered to pull her hips tighter to his, and Ghislaine
could hardly breathe, her pulse racing.

Dazed by such strange sensations shooting through her body, she was
'powerless to deny his tongue the access it was demanding. Somehow,
instead of pushing him away, her hands had curled around the nape of his
neck, her fingers entwined in the thick, black locks, allowing her body
even greater intimacy with his. Her mind was sent spiralling off into a
world of darkness and sweet pleasure whilst his tongue danced with hers.
Leaning even closer into him, Ghislaine felt his hand slide lower,
caressing and squeezing, pulling her even tighter to him.

With a silent groan, Guy pushed her roughly away. He had beert carried
away by the sweetness of her response, and by the soft invitation
offered unwittingly by her body. He closed his eyes remembering the feel
of her, remembering her racing heartbeat, the shy touch of her fingers
on his neck.

Lust. Pure, simple lust. It was no more than that, he reminded himself
as he put his confused. wife at arm's length.

"Truly it~ would be easy to take you right now. lady, but unfortunately
I have more pressing engagements elsewhere."

Ghislaine's cheeks fired with humiliation and confusion, for he spoke
true.

Had he carried on with this magic she would have surrendered with no
real struggle. That he should dismiss her so lightly was very cruel.

"You are nothing but a scheming, stinking brute with no regard for
anything but your own ambitions." Her true feelings were written on her
face as she turned her back to him and attempted to get some control
over her shaking body.

"Were you so perfect, lady, you would not have been  ...  ah  ...
available." His cruel response brought a sudden desire to right back.

"Had you not captured me for your own evil ends, I might have married
elsewhere. Despite what you think, my 1ord~ I am not totally without
attraction."

"And Who was this paragon that Stimed his absence to coincide with your
wedding?"

The jibe came very close to the mark and Ghislaine tried hard to ward
off the tea~rs.

"His name is unimportant, for I will never be 'able to marry him, He is
all that is good and kind, and is able to make me laugh, He listens to
me," she finished in anger. "And he is barbered regularly," she added
for good measure.

"Let me warn you, lady. If i find you alone with this man, or any other
man, then I will surely kill you before you ever reach the convent,"
Ghislaine stared at his retreating back as he left the bedchamber, The
man was not destined for a long life: The midday meal was a silent
affair, enlivened only by d'everard's light-hearted flirtation with
Effie. Guy sat in sullen silence and Ghislaine followed suit, determined
not to engage in Conversation with her husband unless absolutely
necessary. Their mood was visited on the rest of the men and servants
who took their meal there, and conversation between them was unusually
quiet.

Ghislaine took little interest in the spicy pottage or meats that were
served, preferring the simple bread and cheese that was her usual fare.

"You do not drink the ale today, Lady Ghislaine?" Sir Arnaud's blu~ eyes
twinkled at her in amusement.

Ghislaine gave him a withering look and proceeded to sip at the water.

"Do not let my preference inhibit your own, Sir Arnaud. Our ale has a
good reputation for its flavour. Sir Brian can vouch for it, at any
rate."

"Aye, I have noticed." He glanced briefly at the worthy Sir Brian.

"My compliments to your brewer, my lady.

"And the food is more than acceptable." Arnaud's blond head turned to
Guy.

"As your husband has done naught but fill his mouth since our arrival,
you must regard it as total approbation. It is not often he is so silent
over his food."

That dig earned Arnaud a black scowl which caused him to laugh.

"Do not mind his lack of manners, Lady Ghislaine. It is not meant
personally."

"I am most gratified to hear it, Sir Arnaud. I had been losing sleep
over the matter, you can be sure." Her words were delivered with such a
haughty tone, that even Sir Brian blinked hard.

Arnaud noticed his friend's lips tighten at that retort and watched him
thoughtfully for a moment or two as Guy sank his teeth into the sweet
curd tart lets He recalled that it had been a long time since Guy had
relaxed enough to eat such food, and though his mood was rather sour at
the moment, Arnaud had observed a general lightening of his usually
sober spirit.

Perhaps it had something to do with this new wife, since the man was
constantly watching her when she was not looking and irritable when she
was not in sight. He had been ELIZ, ABE! H HENBHALL ready to kill the
guards ere he found out she had left the manor yesterday~ "I am sure we
would welcome the chance to visit your kitchen and butt, cry so that we
could thank your people ourselves." Arnaud smiled at her with such
sincerity that Ghislaine could not turn him down.

"Of course. Should you wish to make your preferences known, then please
tell me. I Will do all I can to make you feel comfortable."

Ghislaine addressed her sarcasm to her husband, but he appeared not to
hear~ her. The Oaf was biting into his third tart let An oaf with a
sweet tooth, then.

When the ~meal was ended Ghislaine did as she was commanded and led the
way to the buttery. It was a small, dark room off the ire at hall filled
with wooden barrels and the sour smell of brewing ale.

"We brew twice a month," she began, 'depending upon our stocks. There
are not often visitors or travellers here, but there is not much else
for the men to do."

"And your wine, lady? Do you make your own?" Guy glanced around the room
but could see no evidence of the wine.

"Or perhaps you have drunk it all?" His grin was ipositivel~; child-like
and Ghislaine swept past him with her nose in the air and a disdainful
sniff.

The tour of the kitchen and the gardens passed' without incident, with
Guy relieved that his wife did not choose to display her venom before
her people.

At least she could be reasonable, although he did not trust her.
Ghislaine was probably the same as all the' other women he had known,
but as yet had noi shown her true colours. She was, in fact, most
knowledgeable about the running of the manor and.

the estate, answering his questi~oris quietly and thoughtfully, and he
was impressed with her quick understanding.

As they approached the blacksmith's hut in the bailey, Arnaud was
summoned to settle a dispute between two of the men. Ghislaine wfitched
the heated fight with barely concealed dismay.

"There is something I have been meaning to discuss, Sir Guy. Since your
men have had several days to adjust to living at Chapmonswiche," she
began uneasily, "I would like to point out that their behaviour within
the manor leaves 'much to be desired." She lifted h~r chin More firmly.

"They are noisy and untidy and my servants have had cause to complain on
several occasions. I would be grateful if you could perhaps. discuss the
matter with Sir Arnaud."

Guy stared at her.

"My men are trained soldiers. I have noticed no deterioration in their
behaviour. Besides," he added stiffly, 'as far as I am concerned, it is
my men who seem to be plagued by your women.

You would be better advised to discuss the matter with Sir Brian, I
think, although the poor man appears to be. overly stretched."

"Poor man!" Her temper exploded.

"He is lucky to have lived so long, for I have often been tempted to add
to the ale he is so fond of' At those meaningful words Guy burst out
laughing, the anger between them dissipating. It was a deep, attractive
sound that had many of the men turning to look at them.

"And what prevented you?"

"Father Thomas did not think it would aid my case with God." Her lips
had formed a tight line.

Her indignant reaction brought another burst of laughter from him and
this time it was impossible to ignore such an infectious sound without
grinning ev, so slightly.

"I take it that Father Thomas lives close by to ensu that men continue
to survive your ale?"

"He does. If you wish to avail yourself of his servic~ he will come on
Friday to hold mass."

"I fear my soul is beyond redemption," he sighed. "You are not alone in
that supposition, my lord." T] words were delivered with such arch
haughtiness th Guy was rendered speechless once again.

Deciding that retreat was her best policy, Ghislai~ flounced off towards
the hall, leaving her husba! pondering her last sentence.

As he watched her leave, Guy's mouth curved into broad smile. The woman
was spirited, there was J doubt about it. Nor did she mince words and tt
pleased him too. What else. caught his attention was't way her hair
glinted in the sun and, despite what he h told Arnaud, he found it most
attractive. In fact, G was beginning to find himself increasingly
looking for her whenever he-was near the keep.

Memories her fragrant white skin and soft lips crowded ~l thoughts far
more often than he would have ihoug possible. He raked his hair back
from his forehead. ! matter that his mind insisted he did not' want tl
woman, his body told him otherwise. And that ,a a problem.

CHAPTER SEVEN.

"I SEE him, Lady Ghislaine," squealed Effie in delight as she leaned
from the window of the hall Her plumply pretty body was wedged into the
narrow opening as she strained to watch the men training in the bailey.

"He would not thank you for embarrassing him before Sir Guy's men;'
replied Ghislaine tartly as she 'laboriously stitched new blankets for
the men. The completed heap did not seem so large and they had been
sewing for days. A heavy sigh from the window caused Ghislaine to look
up.

"Perhaps you are right. He has taken a hit. Do you think he noticed me?"
The hopeful note in her voice caused Ghislaine to smile to herself.

"Edwin could not fail to notice you since you have been hanging out of
that window and making enough noise to attract the attention of the
whole manor:' The reprimand was received with apout as Effie flounced to
her seat.

Guy had spent the past few days training the men hard, with daily sword
practice, body fighting and mock jousting. Ghislaine had seen little of
him save at meals; even then he was too tired to communicate more than
the bare minimum.

She supposed he was sleeping with his mdn in the keep for he had not
returned to her bedchamber. It should have pleased her since he was
keeping to his word, but Ohislaine knew that his lack of attention
irritated her and she could not for the life of her think why. The fact
that she thought of him at all was annoying for the man was no more than
a common outlaw.

Taking pity on Effie and determined to escape the confines of the walls,
Ghislaine decided to brave her husband's wrath. Elfrieda needed some
herbs, and the first shoots were already looking strong.

The weather was cold but fine and it would be an ideal morning to go to
the forest. Putting down her sewing in relief, Ghislaine went to put on
her cloak "I doubt it will last another winter," she ~aid, staring at it
ruefully, her fingers searching the material for other holes. Had she
not said the same last spring?

"That's what Sir Guy said about it, too." Effie's mumbled statement took
Ghislaine completely by surprise.

"He said that? When?"

"The other day when he was looking at your things."

"Why was he doing that?"

Effie looked up from her sewing, a frown on her face. "He didn't say."

Ghislaine shrugged her shoulders as she slipped the cloak around her.

It did not matter that the cold would seep through the thin layers of
wool for she was desperate to walk in the fresh forest and breathe the
pure air.

At least there she could be herself.

"Come. With all this training, maybe Sir Guy will look favourably on a
request to go to the forest?" Ghislaine raised her eyebrows in a
question, and Effie, after a moment or two's hesitation, smiled her
acceptance.

The bailey was awash with men and their war paraphernalia, and the two
women had to dodge between swords and lances to reach Guy . de Courcy.
Ghislaine found her eyes drawn to the tall, ~lark-haired figure in the
centre of the yard: Her husband was fighting in hand-to-hand combat with
a massive blond warrior.

Dressed only in his braies, Guy de Courcy was a magnificent sight.

His skin, Ghislaine noticed in embarrassment, shone nut-brown under the
weak March sun. Taut muscles rippled in his arms and shoulders as he
drove the stick up and down with agile determination. Long strands of
his thick black hair trailed down his back as he lunged forward into
attack, and she wondered what it would feel like to touch his bare skin.
Her cheeks blushed with the sin of such thoughts and Ghislaine sternly
reminded herself that she was bound for the convent.

As she approached the men somewhat apprehensively; Ghislaine sensed
their eyes on her. Arnaud d'everard, courteous as ever, was the only
friendly face in the crowd. He, at least, managed a passable smile
although, from the blush on Effie's cheeks, Ghislaine was not absolutely
certain that it was meant for her.

At her bidding, the lanky youth she now knew as Raoul ran to inform Guy
that Ghislaine wished to see him. From the grim expression on his face
as he strode towards her, Ghislaine half wished that she had waited
until he had finished his fight. Steeling herself against his
irritation, she' decided to try a different tack.

"A lovely day, Sir Guy," she began brightly. His expression remained
implacable as the blue eyes stared at her with polite disdain. In one
hand he carried his crumpled tunic but had clearly dismissed the idea of
putting it on to save her blushes. Embarrassed to 1, at him, Ghislaine
turned to look at the men , continued to practise.

"You have been training tl hard. Are you preparing for any particular
target?"

"Should Margaret Staveley's relatives decide to me a visit to settle the
score, there seems good re~ for being well prepared. I am sure that the
Earl also plans which will require my services sooner or later. replied
stiffly.

"Gratifying though it is," he continue am.

sure that concern for my men was not the re~ you asked to see me."

The expression on his face was not encouraging, Ghislaine was determined
to get her way this time.

"You are right, my lord. The truth is that-the kitct require some vital
herbs and that I am in sore nee, some fresh air in the forest."

She looked at him tl "You said I could not leave the manor save witl
escort of your choice." Ghislaine eyed him wi~ defiant toss of her
braids.

Despite. his irritation at having his practice curta Guy could not deny
the truth in her words.

"Herbs at this time of the year?" he que suspiciously.

"Aye. There are a few near the stream." She did like the scowl that was
deepening on his face.

"Where I found you last time you made a f, beyond the manor?"

Realising the track of his thoughts, Ghislaine's s[ plummeted. She
nodded her head with grudging r~ nation, knowing that she would be
returning to growing pile of sewing.

"I will take you myself."

Ghislaine was so surprised at his words that she was rendered speechless
for a moment.

"You do not trust me." Her cheeks coloured in indignation.

"Nay, but then I find few {women trustworthy," he replied flatly, wiping
his brow with his tunic.

"However, I am still prepared to accompany you."

Ghislaine gave him a withering look as she swept towards the stables.

She would have to be content with his company then. Strangely. she did
not find that thought as distasteful as she had imagined, but it did
make her feel rather nervous. Anyone, she decided, would be foolish
indeed not to feel apprehensive in such company.

The ride to the forest was a pleasant one, despite Ghislaine's
misgivings about her husband and the fact that he would not let Effie
accompany them.

When he joined her at the stables, the man had at least had the grace to
put on his tunic and cloak so that her heart did not thump so fast as
before. He rode before her on his destrier and thankfully made no
attempt at conversation. The two men-at-arms who hccompanied them rode
behind her.

The sun had reached its high point by the time the party reached the
forest and to Ghislaine~s. consternation her stomach began to protest at
having been denied food for so long.

"I hear that you are in need of sustenance, lady." Ghislaine glared at
him, her chin high. How could he mention such things? The man was really
an ignorant oaf.

"Perhaps we should sit and eat. I persuaded Elfrieda to pack some bread
and cheese. An interesting worn~ that." He signalled to his men to draw
to a halt.

The demands of her stomach got the better of 1 and Ghislaine agreed with
a curt nod. Elfrieda's acq escence to packing any food was most strange.
Not the first time did she wonder at her husband'spowers persuasion. He
had very little difficulty with otl women, it seemed.

They dismounted at a clearing the stream-and much to her surprise, her
husba placed his cloak on the ground for her to sit on.

"There is no need to spoil your fine cloak to prot, mine," she pointed
out prosaically.

Guy straightened up and smiled at her lazily.

"I ," thinking more of your~ health than your gowns."

Such a nicety of manners wrong looted her cc pletely and Ghislaine could
feel the blush stealing o her cheeks. Again! Was she never to remain non
before the man! Mumbling her thanks she sat dowr his command and took
the food he offered.

"Your wardrobe is not extensive, lady. Have yo~ dislike of gowns or do
you prefer running around. like village hoyden?"

His softly ~spoken words caused her to cough ~ lently and Ghislaine was
glad that Guy had had foresight to send his men-at. arms on guard out
earshot.

"There is not much call for finery hereabouts. Pr~ cality is of far
greater importance." Even to her ears sounded very righteous, but
nevertheless she was going to admit her father's,meanness to one such
as't "A very commendable attitude which gladdens heart, lady, as well as
my purse. I do not relish spenc on feminine fripperies unnecessarily."

Ghislaine peered at him, uncertain whether she had detected a note of
sarcasm in his voice. He had stretched himself Out at her side, his head
propped by his hand, his eyes watching her carefully. His eyes, she
noticed, were a. wonderful blue, a summer-sky blue.

"I had not realised that my wardrobe held any interest for you." The
words came out a little muffled as she had just bitten into a small loaf
of grey bread.

HE looked at her with interest as she gazed into the depths of the
forest, long red wisps of hair escapin. g from the repressive braids she
favoured.

She was not pretty exactly, but there was something there that made him
want to watch her. And he liked the way she chewed with such obvious
relish.

Remembering then those soft curves of her body caused a warmth to flood
through his veins that had naught todo with the sun.

"Anything that is mine interests me," he replied finally with such an
arrogant tone that her cheeks flushed in ~ indignation.

"I may have been part of your agreement with the Earl," she retorted
tartly, 'but I do not consider myself to be yours." Her eyes were
suddenly alive with contempt." You promised to send me to the convent."

Guy paused in surprise at such a bitter outburst. It would seem that his
wife had still not accustomed-herself to her status. Yet with one look
at her flushed cheeks and dark, . glowerifig eyes he realised, rather
belatedly, that she probably did not deserve such treatment as she had
received at his hands.

"I always keep my promises," he replied somewhat gruffily.

"That is so reassuring."

"You still have not answered my question," he prompted mildly, his blue
eyes holding her gaze. Ghislaine almost felt that she was being held by
force and then gently freed as he turned his attention to the handful Of
nuts at the bottom of his pouch.

"Oh." It was suddenly hard to concentrate as her pulse began to quicken.

"Your gowns," Guy reminded her with a perplexed smile, "Aye," she
stuttered.

"Well, I dare 'say your knowledge of appearance is far greater than
mine." The contemptuous look she offered him as she looked over his
attire caused his lips to twist into a grin.

"Most women seem to spend a great deal of' their time and men's money on
clothes," he remarked rather cynically.

"I have no need of them for there is rarely anyone to see me in them,"
she shot back suddenly. Her irritated silence and tightly drawn lips
told him not to press the point.

As Ghislaine brushed the crumbs from her lap, Guy rose to fill his water
bag from the stream. His stride was long and easy and she found her eyes
drawn to his retreating figure. He was tall, much taller than her father
or even Walter, and she admitted to liking the way his dark hair trailed
down over his shoulders in a thick, black mane.

Somehow it gave him an aura of pagan strength that made her shiver.

"How long have you been living here?" The question was so unexpected
that Ghislaine had to pull l~er thoughts back to reality.

"About eight summers. My father was given the village by Hugh
d'avranches for his services in Normandy. We were sent for shortly
after."

Guy passed her the water pouch and Ghislaine gratefully accepted. The
col~ water trickled down her throat.

"Do you desire to return to Normandyt he prodded, his eyes roving over
her fac~. He found the freckles rather endearing.

Ghislaine shook her head.

"I remember little about it. This is my home." A gleam of pride lit up
her eyes and Guy felt oddly touched by it. There was precious little
wealth here and the girl barely had enough rags to cover her back, and
yet she wished to stay.

"Have you other family?" Guy remembered that Hugh d~Avranches had been
her guardian, so it was unlikely.

"Not that I know of," she dismissed lightly.

"And if I had, I doubt if they would be much interested in having an
extra burden placed on them."

"Ah," he began, the light clearly dawning in his mind. "Hence the
convent."

She shrugged her shoulders dismissively, unable to look him fully in the
eye.

The man was sitting so close to her that she could feel the warmth of
him, smell him even. It was decidedly uncomfortable as she was unable to
think straight and would have risen to leave had a large, tanned hand
not damped down on her arm to prevent her.

"Is my company so awful?" He paused for a moment to clear his throat.

"I am not used to speaking with ladies and I had not meant to cause you
upset. My words are perhaps too blunt."

Expecting to see amusement glittering in those blue eyes, Ghislaine
looked directly into them, a sharp retort on her lips. But what she saw
there made her hesitate.

It was a genuine admission of weakness without a hint of sarcasm. Guy
was so close that she could see ! tiny scars of battle On his face and
the way his net shaven chin was already growing dark. Lines of fatig
were etched lightly round his mouth and darker cir~ below his eyes.

"Awful?" she repeated with difficulty. Her thr. seemed to have
constricted.

"Nay, I  ...  I  ...  am not u: to you," Ghislaine blurted out quickly.

"As for the res think I prefer the. truth."

Guy looked up to watch the darkehing clouds gat] above. He suddenly
turned his face towards her', placed a forefinger below her chin,
forcing Ghislaine look at him, of I have. treated you badly," he began
gruffly, apologise, for you deserved none of it." He drew ii deep
breath, as if drawing courage from it.

"I would ~ send 'you from your home unless you truly wish, it. ~ you
think about it?"

The unexpected question hung in the air betw~ them as their eyes locked
together, Gh]slaine could 1 her heart pounding faster beneath her cloak
as finger moved to push back some of the wisps of 1 that floated across
her face. Warmth from an unknc source ~crept through her body as his
finger trace~ gentle path along her chin. Had he tried to kiss her,
would have pushed him away and stormed off, but did no such thing and
she was not proof against't deep; gruff voice asking so simple a
question.

"Why?" Her voice was almost a whisper as she loo into the fathomless
blue of his eyes.

Guy ignored the question as he did. not rightly k~ the answer himself.

Because she was an' innoce Because he had changed the course of her
life?

He had known what he was doing when he started this and it had not
bothered him then.

Somehow this girl with the sharp tongue and her red hair had gotten
under his skin. He had no desire to hurt her further and d he could
repair some of the damage, then he would.

"I do not believe that you have a vocation." His eyebrow was raised in
question, a grin lurking about his lips.

Ghislaine returned his grin with a reproving sniff. "You do not know me
at all, Sir Guy."

His laughter at such a proud response drew a twitch from Ghislaine's
lips.

"I can see why the Earl was keen to rid himself of such responsibility,
for you and your tongue are more trouble than a besieged keep." Guy
watched as she laughed at that. It was a husky, most attractive sound
that pleased him greatly.

Ghislaine smiled at the thought of proud Hugh d'avranches being
bedevilled by herself.

"My father was Of the same opinion. He would, no doubt, have approved of
you."

There was not a trace of vanity in her, no coy looks nor angling for
pretty words. Guy felt the tension slide from him as he stretched out on
his back, his hands behind his head and dosed his eyes.

"I doubt that," he said soberly.

"According to Hugh d'avranches, John de Launay was an honourable knight
of great courage and honesty."

Ghislaine stared down' at the body lying at her side. In repose he
looked younger, less . threatening. Aye, that was the word. She drew her
legs up against her chest and wrapped her arms around them as she

EI~IZABETH HEN SHALL

thought then of Bet father. Well? Would he h app5 ved of this outlaw and
mercenary?

"Did You do all tbose things you are supposed to h done?" She was
suddenly curious about this murd who could laugh and tease her like any
brother.

"Some." His answer was delivered with comp indifference and ohislaine
realised that she was he ing for difficult waters- She cod not stop now.

"Did You kill Margaret?"

He sat up at that, his eyes upon her. After a mum or two, Guy shook his
head slowly.

"No." It was suc Simple Word, uttered with complete finality. And wanted
to believe him.

"Will You tell me."

" Guy sighed and shrugged his shoulders, his ting busy pickin off his
cloak "After I left' her kee . g twigs . l received ~false me~ sage to
finish a siege near Staffc In the m00d, l was i~a,it was a very welcome
distracti As it it provided the perfect cover for real { Be could hold (
She f " Bi your and't siren as indifferent words," Ghisla er and resent
meat that had tal threatened to eat him from the insi to believe him.

not leave England and go back Guy's shoulders were's tossed the twigs
away to thes t~hat of my men, ~depends on." tuick to conde facts," he
added on a bitter m thing in Normandy for me. Thi . Ghislaine wondered
at that. For a man of his worth and skill there would always be someone
willing to open their arms to him. And yet Margaret had not. Margaret.
Sweet, gentle Margaret.

"Why did you choose Margaret as a wife?" As soon as she had spoken the
words, Ghislaine regretted them but could not unsay them. She
returned-his gaze with steady eyes. For a moment she thought he would
not answer, but then she remembered his habit of thinking carefully.

"I needed a wife," he said simply. ,I was tired of bad food, cold
pallets and stinking clothes." A wry grimace fleetingly touched his
lips.

"Margaret Staveley seemed to fulfill my requirements." His lips
tightened into a straight line.

"Unfortunately it would seem that I did not fulfill hers."

It was the words he did not say that tugged at her heart. Despite his
gruff, cool exterior, the man was capable of feelings and desires just
as the next.

There was something about the way he stared sightlessly into the
distance that made her want to put her hand on his arm. For comfort~.

"And now?" She stole a look at~ his hardened face which once more
sported his scowl.

"Now?" Guy turned slowly to look at her, his eyes colder than the winter
sea.

"Now I must fight to protect my name and to win back what is rightfully
mine.

I paid more than one thousand marks for a manor which now resides in the
hands of Henry Dettingham with the blessing of the King's men."

For a moment, Ghislaine was uncertain whether Guy was upset more because
of the loss of his one thousand silver marks than the loss of his
reputation.

And yet Ivy such admissions had shown her a different side to him. A
side that she found vulnerable and human, and had wanted to trust.

"My father would have said exactly the same," she sighed as she stood to
shake the crumbs from her lap.

"I am sure you would have understood each other well."

"And why do I feel that was not altogether a compliment?" he responded
mildly, gathering up his cloak.

"You fire the same black looks at anyone who displeases you," she
ventured, a delicate brow raised in disdain.

"We have both' been plagued by the same wench," came his instant retort.

Ghislaine smiled at him then, encouraged by his lightening mood.

"That," she pointed out, 'does not sound like a compliment either, my
lord."

The forest was cool and smelled of the fresh mixture of decaying earth
and b~udding greenery and Ghislaine found herself smiling as they made
their way to the herbs that grew near the stream. Guy asked her many
questions about the estate and the land about, showing her another side
to his character.

His manners might be lacking most of the time but his wits were not. The
man knew much more about running a manor than she had imagined. She was
curious about him.

"Do you have family, Sir Guy?" Ghislaine stooped to pick at the herbs
carefully.

"Aye. Three brothers in Normandy."

Encouraged by his lack of aggression, Ghislaine looked up.

"You must miss them."

A veil seemed to draw down over his face at that and she knew she was
stepping on stony ground. Ghislaine knew the answer before his lips
formed it.

"I never think of them."

As she tugged at the difficult stem, Guy handed her his knife. It was a
handsome hunter's knife with an ivory handle chased in gold. She took it
with a grateful smile.

"Never?"

Guy looked at the knife in her hands.

"Keep the knife. You may have need of it."

She nodded silently. This was certainly a different sid~ to her husband.

"Do you ever think of your brother?" He had-side-stepped her question
with an irritating lack of conscience, but Ghislaine wondered why. She
stored the information for another time.

"A lot of the time I talk to him. As if he were still here," she added.

That was something she had never admitted to anyone. Not even Margaret.

"We were close."

Guy nodded at that, his dark hair glinting in the shafts of
green-flecked light that filtered through the trees. He was watching the
depths of the forest with half-closed eyes: Ghislaine considered the
stern set of his mouth as she put the herbs in her pouch.

"So you have no one left?" His eyes had switched to her face and for
some reason Ghislaine could not bring herself to look at him.

"Not now that Margaret is dead."

The words Seemed to echo on the still air between them. She had not
meant to say them, but something deep within her forced them out.

"Margaret? You knew her?" Guy's face was very still, his eyes boring
deep into her.

"Of course. She was married to my brother before Peter Staveley. They
had been wed only a few months before his death.

Peter was a friend of my father's. That was how he met her." The words
trailed off as Guy stood squarely before her.

"You did not know?" The words came out almost as a whisper. Then a
thought struck her.

"You are not in the least concerned about who you marry?"

His grim face lightened a little at the scandalised tone in her voice.

"It was not quite that bad. Arnaud had looked into her background and
found nothing amiss. I had planned to find out more from the lady
herself."

His words were a little defensive and Ghislaine was intrigued.

"Are you always so careless when you woo a lady?"

"It's not something I do every day," he admitted, a smile lurking or/
his lips. Her raised eyebrow told him what she thought of his methods.

"My lord, has anyone told you that offering your worldly goods to an
unknown, or abducting an innocent and forcing them into marriage is not
the usual~ way to go about these things?"

"Oh? Do you recommend a better method?"

Ghislaine saw the humour glinting in his eyes. "Well I have not had much
personal experience in these matters, of course, but ladies like. to
think that they have a certain attraction, of course."

"Of course," came the grave response.

"I can see how badly I have erred." He smiled down at her, and Ghislaine
held her breath. When he looked at her like that the man truly had no
need for words.

"Have you any other advice?"

"Aye," she said tartly.

"Attempting to beat a woman is no way to curry theft fay our As she bent
down to pick up more herbs, his hand pulled her up again.

His eyes roved over her face and she detected a gentleness that she had
not seen before. "I did not mean to hurt you, girl."

She did not want his sympathy or his pity.

"My name is Ghislaine. That would be a start."

Guy watched her flounce off, and he smiled to himself. Maybe he had been
too hasty in his assessment of his wife.

By the time the party had reached the manor gates, they had been soaked
in a sudden downpour. Despite her bedraggled appearance, Ghislaine's
mood had lightened and the tension she had been feeling seemed to be
slipping a little. Guy had ridden by her side and although he had not
said much she sensed a thawing between them. At least he had not
scowled. In fact, when he looked at her, Guy had this-rather strange
smile on his lips.

Looking down at her costume, Ghislaine realised rather belatedly that
she did not appear in her best light. Her hair hung in sodden rats tails
over her back and her cloak and gown resembled little more that dripping
rags. A very feminine desire to look her best beset her.

Preferring not to examine the cause of this desire, Ghislaine mentally
went through the choice of gowns available to her. It was an exercise
doomed from the start as Ghislaine knew deep down that there was.

nothing suitable.

"Ghislaine."

Shocked at hearing her own name from his lips, Ghislaine started. Her
palfrey reacted in similar fashion and did not settle until Guy steadied
her.

"I had no desire to startle you, lady." Back to normal, she thought
wryly, but nothing could douse that small flame of Cheer that began to
burn when he spoke her name.

"Just deep in thought, Sir Guy."

Guy smiled at her use of his title.

"I hope that you will join me this evening, lady. We have not supped
together these past few nights and I believe that your company has been
sorely missed." He had not said that he had missed her company, but it
was the next best thing. His eyes looked almost shyly into hers and what
she saw there made her heart beat faster. , warmth flooded through her
as their horses drew' to a halt alongside each other. Guy waved their
escort through the manor gates and they were left alone. He picked up
her wet hand and brought it to his lips. He ~ pressed a gentle kiss on
her frozen fingers and smiled at her.

It was a 'smile that made her resistance to him weaken and. her heart
pound.

It was a smile that promised much, "My lord." One of Guy's men came
running from within the 'gates.

"We have visitors. They request your presence."

Ghislaine bit back the words of disappointment and turned her eyes to
the gate. Whoever was there had very poor timing. She followed her
husband across the moat, "Walter!" He was the last person she had
expected to see, although she had been willing him to come, And now he
was here, she was suddenly very confused about her feelings. Ghislaine
eyed her husband in a new light. She had witnessed a softer, more gentle
man with humour and 'intelligence, but he was still her enemy. How could
she have forgotten that? Divided feelings warred within her, for she
belatedly realised that she had willingly let herself be won over' by
this enigmatic mercenary. What a fool she was.

Guy had dismounted at the same time as Ghislaine and had come to stand
at her side. His cold expression told her that he knew the visitor's
identity.

Remembering his earlier threat, Ghislaine introduced the two men in as
dutiful a voice as she could muster.

They eyed each 'other with dislike. Guy was a good head taller than
Walter; his stormy blue eyes taking in every detail about the man his
wife had confessed to loving. For a moment she saw him through Guy's
eyes. Arrogant, disdainful and dressed like a peacock, But just for a
moment. Those mutinous thoughts disappeared the minute Walter's gentle,
friendly smile told her how relieved he was to find her still alive.

She felt contrition, for he was not to blame. Walter de Belleme was as
bound by convention as she. Defying the Earl could have been far worse
for him' than her marriage to Guy de Courcy. ~And she was pleased to see
him. His short blond hair ruffled in the wind land his grey eyes told
her what she wanted to know.

"I believe good wishes are due, Lad~ Ghislaine. Your marriage was most
sudden. I came as soon as I was able," Ghislaine ignored the snort that
came from Guy's direction. She would have to be careful if Walter was to
continue living. Despite his expertise with a sword, she did not doubt
that her husband could overcome him should he put his mind to it.

"Greetings, Sir Walter. Your visit was most timely."

1~3 Walter's raised eyebrow and his rather pointed. look at her sodden
clothes told her what he thought of that. Flustered that-she should be
caught so out of looks, Ghislaine nervously suggested that he wait in
the hall whilst Sir Guy and herself changed into' more fitting attire.

She could feel Guy's eyes follow Walter's back as~ he made his way
across the bailey. He had brought an escort of five men-at-arms and two
knights she vaguely remembered seeing at the court. Had she been
expecting a rescue party, Ghislaine thought wryly~ she would have been
sorely disappointed.

"I ~hope you remember my promise, lady." Guy's deep voice penetrated her
thoughts: The charm and gentleness that he had' displayed earlier Were
once . again hidden beneath a black scowl, but Ghislaine was no.

longer fearful. , "I remember everything, my lord." Casting a disdainful
look in his direction, Ghislaine lifted her Chin and crossed the bailey,
her dripping gown thrashing against ~her legs. She would not be gulled
like a foolish child and at that moment she did not care what his
reaction would be, "That 'mercenary Oaf had lumbered into her life and
ruined her dreams. She had been the victim, not the other way round.

With such thoughts racing through her mind, Ghislaine flounced up the
staircase to her. chamber~ It was not until she had peeled off the
sopping gown that she belatedly remembered that Guy still had possession
of her clothes. Her first reaction was to storm 'from the chamber and
find him, to pour~ her a~ger over his. shoulders. Her second was to
remember to stay calm. It would benefit no one, least of all Walter,
were she to stir her husband's temper. Irritated beyond all measure,
Ghislaine threw herself onto the bed. She would have to ask Guy for
suitable clothes.

Effie re[urned with her oldest, most threadbare gown of brown wool over
her arm, her cheeks tinged pink with the humiliation her mistress would
know.

Ghislaine had spent her temper by rubbing her hair dry. As soon as she
saw what Guy was giving her to wear, Ghislaine smiled to herself. Was he
jealous? Was her oafish, scowling husband jealous of Walter? For a
moment she wallowed in the delicious feeling of having two men fight for
her attentions, before reality washed over her. Neither of them were
interested in her for she had neither looks nor charm to recommend her.
Hadn't she always known that?

Changed and coiffed, Ghislaine felt no less nervous than before, but her
courage had returned. She would face her fate with bravery and she would
save Walter.

A soft tapping at the door of her chamber did not cause her any concern.

Thinking it was one of the servants, she bade them enter whilst she
continued to adjust her braids.

"You are in better looks, Lady Ghislaine."

Ghislaine v~hirled round to see Walter standing before her, ~ admiration
beaming from his eyes. Or was it something else? The flicker of
uncertainty must have registered, for Walter stepped forward in concern.

"Do not worry, lady. Your husband is in the stables still. I would not
willingly cause you grief but I had to see you alone."

"Your concern does you much credit, my lord, but it is unfortunately a
little tardy."

"You are upset," he began soothingly.

"But I have 11 !

come to rescue you, Ghislaine." Walter had closed the gap between them
and his hands had risen to her arms. Gently he pulled her towards him.

Ghislaine stiffened.

"And what makes you think I wish to be rescued, Sir Walter? I was
married to Sir Guy before God. Naught can change that now."

There was no mistaking the accusing emphasis that Ghislaine had laid on
that 'last word and Walter released her quickly. A look of acute
distress flooded across his face.

Aye. You are right to be angry, Ghislaine." His'hand reached out to move
a tendril of hair from her eyes, but she moved back to avoid his touch.

Walter smiled wanly and pushed back his own perfect curls with a sigh.
Why, she thought, did that movement look so contrived?

"I tried to stop the marriage," he murmured miserably, 'but the Earl
would not allow it."

Ghislaine eyed him uncertainly. She wanted to believe him, but so much
had happened that she no longer knew whom to trust. At least Guy was
open with his scorn and his anger.

"Why would you wish to anger the Earl with my rescue now?" Ghislaine
almost held her breath as she waited for his reply.

Walter hesitated for a fraction of a second.

"You would not need to be rescued," he began.

"De Courcy is very likely to meet his end sooner rather than later. It
is, after all, the price a mercenary pays. Dettingham and his men are
sniffing round all the time. It won't be long before they catch up with
him."

His words echoed in her head. She did not wish to be married to de'
Courcy, but nor did she wish him to die. "No."

Walter stared at her and for a moment, Ghislaine was sure she detected
irritation in those soft grey eyes.

"Are you sure?" His hands covered her shoulders and began a gentle,
rhythmic rubbing with his thumbs.

"Aye. He was not my choice, but I do not willingly wish his death, if I
had understood you aright." She shook off his hands, her pleasure in
seeing him again somewhat marred.

"I thank you for your concern, Sir Walter, but I think it best you leave
my chamber?

Tight-lipped, Walter nodded and left her without a sound. It was not
until she heard his voice below that Ghislaine let 0uta sigh of reliel
At least he w, as safe. But what of Guy? Was he safe? Somehow she did
not think Walter would give up quite so easily, although she was sure
~that he was not interested in her any more. And if it was not her, then
what was it?

Puzzled, Ghislaine left the chamber.

CHAPTER EIGHT.

Gmsl^me glared at the spindle and the mangled heap of raw wool in her
lap with a malevolent eye and stood up. The distaff and wool swept to
the floor as she retreated to the fire in the hall. Her patience and her
temper had been much tried this past week since Walter's disastrous
visit and Ghislaine was in no mood this morning for practising her
limited skills in the art of spinning. Her ineptitude in such matters
was widely lamented.

Several of Guy's churlish men were lounging noisily in the hall, gaming
with dice or arm-wrestling and generally disturbing the peace and order
that had always reigned in her home. Treating a particularly loud and.
discordant trio to one of her glacial stares, Ghislaine determined to
tackle her husband about his men's general behaviour. She had continued
to receive complaints from her women about their coarse 'language and
lewd suggestions~ Sighing with frustration, she turned back to the fire.

Talking to Guy de Courcy was another problem. Since Walter's mistimed
appearance, she and her husband had barely exchanged more than a few
words.

Any rapprochement that might have existed between them had been well and
truly shattered.

The meal that dreadful night had been a quiet, strained affair, with
Walter and his knights attempting polite conversation whilst her husband
had just scowled 119 at them. Eventually his black mood had descended on
the whole company and it had come as a relief when Walter had announced
their immediate departure.

Ghislaine had retired to her chamber in silence, leaving her husband to
pour his wrath on his own men. She had'lain awake for hours,
contemplating Walter's belief that Guy might be killed, and had finally
come to the conclusion that as the de Courcy widow she would be richer
than as John de Launay's heiress. Had that been the key to Walter's
renewed interest in her?

Ghislaine had grown stiff with cold and misery, torturing herself over
her own nayvety. She had not wanted to believe it, but she had had to
admit that Walter had not tried very hard to prevent her marriage to the
mercenary.

And now? She was married to a man who was using her to clear his name,
who scowled at the world, who was a murdering mercenary. But honest,
voiced her inner conscience. He had always been truthful with her. He
had never hidden his feelings or his reasoning in his dealings with her.
No, she could not honestly wish for his death "Lady Ghislaine?" Effie
tapped her mistress gently on the shoulder.

"My pardon, Effie. I was woolgathering."

Effie cast a baleful eye in the direction of the spindle - and the wool.

"Aye," she said doubtfully.

"And most of it'on the rushes."

A loud guffaw from the direction of the noisy trio caused Effie's cheeks
to flush a becoming shade of pink.

"There's a pedlar at the gates asking if we need aught. Can we allow him
in?" Her eyes shone with eager anticipation.

They could do with the diversion and Ghislaine knew that many of the
women would welcome the chance to purchase ribbon, needles and several
other items so essen tim to the female mind. As Guy was out hunting, the
responsibility lay on her shoulders.

"Aye," she said finally.

"Have him come to the hall."

The pedlar was unknown to them but not unwelcome for that. A small, thin
man with straggly brown hair and one blind eye, he welcomed the bowl of
pottage offered and drank a skin of ale 'with relish.

Ghislaine noticed that as he ate and drank, his good eye was carefully
observing the men and the Surroundings.

"Have you come far?" she enquired. His observation was-making her feel
uneasy.

The man shook his head.

"Not far," he responded pleasantly enough.

"Spring is always a good time of year. You ladies is always keen to buy
things to attract the eyes of the men."

His words were well meaning if a little crude.

"Then we would not wish to delay you on your travels~ Perhaps, you would
show us your wares?"

Correctly interpreting her desire for him to conclude his sales
speedily, the pedlar quickly arranged his goods to advantage, Ghislaine
had to admit that the array was enticing and soon found herself caught
up in the excitement.

She had need of a new comb and several new laces and took great pleasure
in making her final choices. Her eye was also caught by the perfumed phi
ills and trinkets which eli, cited such sighs of pleasure from the
others. The hall was buzzing with the animated chatter of the women and
their exclamations of delight over their purchases when in walked Guy de
Courcy.

At first, Ghislaine did not notice his entry but a loud thumping on the
table soon brought her attention to him.

"A word with you, lady," came his voice, loud and cold, across the hall.
It seemed as if the entire crowd was holding its collective breath as
Ghislaine headed towards the door. Flushed to her toes with the
humiliation, Ghislaine faced her husband with tight lips.

"You wished to speak with, me, my lord?"

Guy stood before her, his hands on his hips. It was not an encouraging
posture, she decided.

"You are right, lady." His eyes had turned a dark blue and his skin was
still pink from the chase.

"I demand to know who gave permission to let the wretch in?"

Ghislaine stiffened.

"I did. There seemed no harm ..."

"No harm!" came the interruption.

"Do you know him? Have you proof of his occupation?"

Ghislaine had to shake her head, and the suspicions she had initially
harboured returned. The man had seemed unusually observant.

"Perhaps you wish to share your concerns with me?" she suggested with as
much dignity as she could muster.

"I had thought there would be little need to explain things to you,
lady.

But it seems I must. All Henry Dettingham needs is proof of my existence
here and information about the number of men under my roof.

The Earl's men have not yet materialised and we remain vulnerable to
attack.

Your lack of vigilance endangers every life within these walls. No
stranger is to enter the gates of the manor without my express
permission. Have I made myself clear?"

Had he spoken quietly, then Ghislaine might have been able to swallow
her pride for what he said made sense. However, Guy de Courcy seemed
unable to speak quietly and she was certain that everyone in the hall
must have heard him, including the pedlar. Her humiliation was complete.

"You have made yourself perfectly clear,~my lord. However, I would like
to point out that the women, myself included, had need of several items~
offered by the pedlar and were glad of his presence. I take it we will
be allowed to complete our purchases?" She eyed him with a mixture of
humiliation and irritation.

"The other women may do so, but I am not aware that you have enough
money to pay for your o'~n items."

Ghislaine's cheeks burned at such treatment.

"Sir Brian will: ..."

"Sir Brian will no longer be providing you with funds just to indulge
your fancy whims, lady. I thought I had made it clear that I do not
fritter hard-earned money on women's nonsense." His words left her
speechless. Had she ever harboured any softer feelings towards the man,
they were certainly destroyed now. Ghislaine lowered her eyes,
determined not to let him see how much he had hurt her. Aye, the things
were no more than indulgent fripperies, but he had deliberately made her
look foolish.

"Very well, my lord. Sir Brian will send him on his way."

"See that ~e is gone by the time I return from the stables." I trust him
not." So saying Guy stalked off towards the bailey leaving Ghislaine
uncertain whether to cry or to attempt murder.

The pedlar left within the candle notch and Ghislaine retired to her
room to lick her wounds. Her husband had been right; she 'had made a
foolish error of judgement and it would not happen again. There had been
no good reason why he should have upbraided her in such a high-handed
manner, though, and the incident had upset her deeply. It would seem
that she received less consideration than his squire. So much for his
soft, gentle words of the week before.

A curt knock at the door caused her to stand quickly and wipe her eyes
with her sleeve. So her husband had relented already! Well, if he
thought her willing to take such treatment meekly, she was going to
disabuse him right quickly.

When she yanked open the door to find Sir Arnaud d'everard, however, her
face must have betrayed her thoughts.

"I am sorry to disappoint you, my lady, but I have come to bring you
some wine and company. I had thought you may have need of both." His
smile was gentle and Ghislaine was not proof against it. She stood back
to allow him entry. There would be no need of a chaperon with Sir
Arnaud.

"Your charm is difficult to resist, Sir Arnattd," she returned.

"Tis more than a shame that so little seems to have rubbed off on Sir
Guy."

He looked up at her sharply as he poured the wine into two goblets.

"He has not had muchl.c,.harm in his life, lady. It is not surprising
that he may seem harsh at times. He has much on his mind."

"He is often like a bear with a sore head," she retorted as she turned
to look out of the window embrasure.

"It is not at all easy to deal with him. My servants are terrified of
him."

Sir Arnaud was silent as he handed her the wine.

"His temper can be sour, but he is a good man. It would be hard to find
a more trustworthy friend."

"Aye. I'm sure that may be true for you, Sir Arnaud, but he does not
view me in the same light," she replied doubtfully, turning back to look
at him.

Arnaud laughed.

"Now that; lady, seems most promising to me," Ghislaine gave him a
withering 1ook. ~ "He prefers not to view me at all," she continued.

"Most of the time he avoids my company. When he does attempt'
conversation, more often than not it is to upbraid me in a most harsh
manner."

The amusement had died from Sir Arnaud's eyes as he watched Ghislaine's
spirit sink.

"Do not take it so badly, lady. It is just his way with ladies."

Ghislaine snorted her disgust before taking a soothing draught of sweet
red wine.

"He is naught but an oaf. It matters not to me that he lumps me with the
rest of womankind, but't wish to be treated with more respect. He has
control over, my home; my servants, any money  ...  everything. For the
time that I have left here, ! want  ...  I want to be treated as if I
mattered." She turned her back towards.

Sir Arnaud so that he would not notice the brightness of her eyes, nor
the trembling of her chin.

"Lady, I am sorry for your distress, but mayhap I can relieve some of
your troubles by way of explanation." He looked warily about but the
room was empty.

Ghislaine turned to look, at him, her mouth set in a hard line.

"I will listen, Sir Arnaud, but I doubt you will Change my mind."

Arnaud inclined his head and shrugged his shoulders. "Nay. But it might
go some way to help you understand him better."

"Very well, but do not expect too much."

"He has never liked ladies much," he began hesitantly, and frowned at
Ghislaine's responding sigh.

"His own mother left him at the age of three to run off with her lover.
His father had some maggot in his head that the fault lay at Guy~s feet
and practically ignored him from then on." "Guy?" she questioned.

"How can a threeryear-old be respohsible for that?"

Arnaud shook his head.

"Guy was a difficult child whose boisterous behaviour had caused
disagreements between his parents. His mother was a gentle creature
apparently who resisted her husband's attempts to discipline the child.
It would seem his father was a harsh man who beat Guy and his three
brothers frequently. When he was seven, Guy was sent to be fostered as
squire under the wings of Lord Marigny, whose reputation as a brutal
taskmaster was well deserved." "And that was where you met him?"
Ghislaine asked. "Aye. We became friends. He had the brawn and I the art
of diplomacy. Between us we managed to survive those early days."

"Most interesting, Sir Arnaud, but I fail to see how his treatment as a
child is different to that of many other men. He has had time to get
over a few beatings surely?"

"Perhaps a little more patience, lady? I am not yet ELILAI~E 1H H I~N
3HALL 1~,1

done." Sirarnaud paused to sip the wine.

"Marigny 'always seemed to single him out for punishment if there was
trouble of any kind. Guy didn't complain since he was determined to make
his father proud of him. He was convinced that once knighted, his father
would show him some respect and their differences buried. He finally won
his spurs at eighteen and I swear that was the first time I had ever
seen him smile."

"Well, that perhaps goes some way to explain his bad temper, but not his
attitude towards myself?"

"Despite his scowls, Guy's looks drew much attention from women. He was
ever a shy one, but felt most at ease with the simpler, serving wenches
who demanded nothing more from him than an hour or two of his time."
Even Sir Arnaud flushed a little at that!

"The ladies of the keep wanted much' the same, but would also mock him
for his plain speaking and lack of pretty words. In the end he found
that surliness answered the problem best. Until he went back home."

"Home?" she enquired, her curiosity piqued.

"Where is that? Guy has never talked o pounds it."

"His father owned a good-sized estate near Avranches, but that meant
little to Guy since he was the fourth son. Still, a home is a home and
Guy had hoped that in eleven years his father would have become more
approachable." Arnaud paused to swirl the wine round in his cup.

"So he went back to the estate in the end?" she prompted.

"Aye. But it was not much of a home-coming. After having his first
marriage annulled, his father had hopes of remarrying a younger, very
pretty daughter of a nelghbouring landowner. Guy welcomed the match but
it would seem his new step-mother-to-be found it impossible to keep her
hands off him, She followed him everywhere and finally, when she could
not get him to bed her, she went to his father accusing Guy of trying to
do exactly that."

Ghislaine frowned.

"He must have denied it?"

"Of course. It did no good, though. His father wished to hang him on the
spot, but his elder brother, well aware of the lady's predilections,
helped him escape."

"So he became a mercenary," she surmised.

"Aye, and never had anything to do with women of rank since then."

"Until Margaret Stave Icy thinking she would be a good wife?"

Arnaud sighed.

"Luck was not wrh him. there either."

"Margaret would have made a good wife." Ghislaine pointed out sadly.

"She was good, kind and loyal. And very pretty," she added~ "Perhaps,"
said Arnaud distractedly, sniffing the wine.

"You do not think she would have made a good wife?" Ghislaine was
fascinated by the very idea.

He hesitated.

"I am not sure Margaret Stave Icy would have. made Guy a good wife."

"Margaret would have made any man a good wife. Except she would not have
liked his black scowls."

"You do not seem to mind them so much," he replied flatly.

Ghislaine shrugged her shoulders.

"They are rarely based on substance of any sort. Besides, I have noticed
that he shouts and threatens a lot, but rarely acts."

"Do not let the men know that, lady, or his reputation will be worth
naught."

They laughed together at that unlikely thought.

ELI~,ABEI FI

HEI~HALL

"Are you suggesting that the next time he shouts at me I cover myself in
bruises?" Ghislaine smiled at him.

"Lady, the fact that he shouts at you at all is what interests me."

"How so?" Ghislaine demanded, fascinated at this line of thought.

"He has never shown so much interest in any other woman."

Ghislaine frowned.

"I can assure you the experience is one most women would gladly avoid."

"I meant that he finds it hard to stay away from you." Ghislaine shook
her head. ~You are wrong, Sir Arnaud. He avoids me at all costs. I would
even go so far as to say that he plans it like a military campaign."

Arnaud laughed.

"You might find a little gentle persuasion works wonders."

Ghislaine received this suggestion with a contemptuous expression.

"I

am not at all convinced of the wisdom of encouraging his attentions, Sir
Arnaud. My husband has made it dear on several occasions that he will be
pleased to rid himself of me and my accursed tongue."

Arnaud d'everard regarded Ghislaine with a thoughtful expression on his
face.

"He is a proud man who has had to fight for everything..

There has been no kindness in his life, no warmth and no love. Were he
to be shown a different way, lady, he might learn to change." He paused
to place his goblet on the floor.

"I believe you to be a good woman, lady. Be patient with him and you may
find Guy a worthy husband."

"You ask much, Sir Arnaud. He has caused me hurt and humiliation."

Her dark eyes challenged him.

"Give me one good reason why I should. The convent seems a more
acceptable solution."

Sir Arnaud pushed his blond locks back from his face in frustration.

"I cannot believe you have a vocation," he offered hopefully.

"Nor would your life eve~ be dull."

"A most unoriginal thought, Sir Arnaud," she replied waspishly.

"But if it makes you feel better, I shall consider what you said."

Inwardly Ghislaine chided herself for such weakness. She had absolutely
no intention whatsoever of considering a. proper marriage to such a man.
None at all.

Elfrieda stood i~ the middle of her warm kitchen with her arms across
her ample chest and glared with intense dislike at the huge man stood
before her.

"This brute thinks that just because he catches most of the meat, it
entitles him to take liberties." The woman's voice was indignant and
somewhat too self-righteous for one well-known to enjoy the pleasures of
the flesh.

Ghislaine stood between the warring pair in an attempt to prevent mayhem
from destroying the evening meal.

Whatever Elfrieda's morals, the woman had proved herself an excellent
cook since the previous incumbent had died suddenly from a lung fever
last Yuletide. Although most head cooks were men, Ghislaine had seen no
point in replacing her. -Her quick temper, however, was legendary.

Despite being no more than twenty-four summers in age, Elfrieda ruled
the kitchen with strict authority, and had no time for idle loafers and
scroungers. Anyone found to be overstepping the mark was subjected to a
tongue lashing of great volume and thrown from the

ELIZABETH H E~H5 HALL

kitchen under a hail of pans and bones. Mindful of her husband's
admitted parsimony, Ghislaine felt it was' an extra expense they could
do without.

Tall for a woman, and plump as a well-fed chicken, Elfrieda's size and
stubborn expression would have been more than off putting for most men.
Her clear ~blue eyes flashed mutinously and her generous moutfi
compressed in a tight line as she prepared to do battle with Guy de
Courcy's giant sergeant.

Joachim, however, seemed not one whit dismayed by Elfrieda's aggression.
A Frank with a sullen disposition and thick, greosy blond braids, he
ruled the de Courcy mercenaries with little more than a few growls and
snarls. None of those louts had ever shown any desire to pit their
strength against Joachim's huge bulk. Elfrieda knew no such
apprehension, and Ghislaine was almost certain she saw a responding
glint in the sergeant's dull blue eyes.

Feeling somewhat like an insect caught between two huge rocks, Ghislaine
held up her hands.

"I will not have any disruption in my kitchens," she began in a firm
tone: "Go to the bailey and get' about your duties~ If you have any
complaints, address them to Sir Arnaud and we shall deal with them in a
civilised fashion."

"Oh, aye," responded Elfrieda with a sly glance at Ghislaine.

"Like you and Sir Guy, you mean?"

"Hush, woman." Joachim's two words practically. boomed around the
kitchen and even Elfrieda seemed a bit taken aback.

"Show'respect to your mistress or I will beat you." He stared intently
at E. lfrieda, his sullen face almost ~carved in granite. After a moment
or two of silence, he nodded curtly at Ghislaine and turned to leave.

Ghislaine exhaled in relief as he thudded down the stone-flagged
corridor to the bailey. Elfrieda appeared to be rooted to the spot,
completely taken aback at having been spoken to so roughly. It was
certainly a novel experience.

Just as she was about to upbraid Elfrieda, a sudden outburst of frantic
shouting in the bailey distracted their attention. Hurrying outside,
Ghislaine found her bailey swarming with Guy's mercenaries and her own
soldiers charging to their posts. Joachim stood in the middle of it all,
like an immovable tree, dispensing orders in his slow, gruff voice.
There was no sign of her husband Or Sir Arnaud: Catching sight of Edwin,
relief flooded through her. At last, a friendly face! Her pleasure was
to be short lived.

"Get inside the keep, my lady, and stay there. That's an order!"

"I will not move until I know what's happening," she retorted defiantly.

Edwin had certainly changed over the last few weeks. Gone was the
gentleness and the familiar resignation, replaced by a light in his eyes
which she fancied was a sort of excitement. Her husband had taken her
childhood friend and brought him to manhood. Edwin'had left her behind,
Maybe it was time for her to take the same path.

Crossing her arms over her chest, Ghislaine faced Edwin in much the same
way Elfrieda had faced Joachim. Edwin pulled an iron helm over his head
as he spoke.

"Dettingham has arrived with his men and he is likely to cause trouble.
Now go inside and deal with the women and servants." His narrowed eyes
were watching the men beyond her shoulder.

"Where is my husband?" That brought Edwin's eyes to hers.

"Putting on his hauberk and expecting obedience from you." He reached to
touch an auburn braid in a familiar gesture, his expression softened.

"Do as he says, Ghislaine. I need to know you are safe."

A pang of-fear shot through her. Edwin was genuinely worried.

"Aye," she grinned at him reluctantly.

"I'll go, but if you get yourself hurt because of Guy de Courcy's
quarrel, I shall be most vexed. Take care."

R91uctantly, she returned to the keep. Was Dettingham's presence a
result of her foolishness? Chastened by the very thought, Ghislaine set
to sorting out the supplies in case of battle. Much as 'she wanted to
put him from her mind, Guy. de Courcy was at the forefront of her
thoughts. Had she signed his death warrant by her' actions?

When the water was boiling in the huge cauldrons and enough cloth had
been gathered to make binding for wounds, Ghislaine made her way to the
top of the keep.

"What do you think you are doing here, lady?"

Guy de Courcy's angry voice boomed across the battlements. He was
standing at the south side with Sir Arnaud and three of his men.

Flushed with the effort of climbing the steep staircase, Ghislaine had
to wait a few moments to catch her' breath Biting back a scathing
retort, she advanced on the group of men.

The view from the battlements was most informative. Beyond the palisade
gathered a large group of mounted soldiers headed by a smaller group of
more elaborately attired knights. Swords, rivets and helms glinted in
the last rays of the late afternoon sun.

"I wondered if I might be of help, my lord." Ghislaine stood before her
husband, her eyes drinking in the sight of his sword and helm.

"You would be of more use within than up here," he barked irritably.

"Obey me in this."

Ghislaine schooled her temper, "I have met with Henry Dettingham, my
lord. He came to my brother's wedding and is  ...  was a kinsman in a
way. I thought perhaps if I could talk with him ..."

Her voice trailed off as her husband's scowl grew even blacker, if that
was possible.

"You have done more than enough ..."

"Wait, Guy," interrupted d'ev6rard quickly.

"The lady has a good point. If he trusts her, he may agree to talk. It's
worth a try, don't you think?"

Ghislaine 'offered Sir Arnaud a grateful smile. Her husband continued to
frown, but rubbed his chin in thought.

"Aye," he conceded eventually, 'but I am not sure that I trust her."

Ghislaine flushed to the roots of her hair.

"You are most insulting my lord. My concern lies, more with the safety
of my people than your own skin, I admit. However, I am not so foolish
to think that, by delivering you to Henry Dettingham, my people will be
spared. You have threatened their live soften enough and I am sure that
Sir Arnaud will not hesitate to carry out your, orders in such an
event."

Both men gaped at her for the space of several minutes. Guy de Courcy
was the first to find his tongue. "Honesty was always your strong point,
lady," he ground out.

"But you are right. In the event of your treachery, your manor would be
wasted and your people killed."

Ghislaine noted the look exchanged between the three-men-at-arms behind
them.

She was beginning to realise that those orders were merely a threat to
keep her in check. She had no wish to put it to the test, though.

"I give you my word that I shall commit no treachery."

Guy sighed heavily, his eyes distracted by a movement in the formation
of soldiers below. Ghislaine recognised the small, rotund figure Of
Henry Dettingham detach himself from the main body and position himself
before the manor. gates His grey destrier pawed at the ground restlessly
as if he sensed the tension ~n the air.

"Come out, de Courcy. You cannot hide forever and the Earl's men are not
here to protect you. I have no wish to destroy the manor so. I offer you
a duel. A fight to the death and that will be an end to it."

Henry Dettingham's bluff voice carried to the battlements.

Guy shook his head resolutely.

"You know what to say, Arnaud. Take my wife. He may harbour some liking
for her, at least."

Arnaud d'everard inclined his hdad.

"A,s you say." His lips had twitched slightly at his friends last words.

As th~ huge gates were opened, Ghislaine felt a frisson of fear shoot
through her. Perhaps Henry Dettingham had changed and he would not
listen to her?

He had been a mild-mannered, rather diffident man who had a penchant for
pompous speeches and ale. Not even Henry could allow his sister's murder
to go unchallenged, though. Her heart went out to him.

"Courage, Lady Ghislaine." Arnaud smiled at her as they urged their
horses forward. Ghislaine could do naught but swallow as they came to a
halt before their doughty foe.

Henry wore a bright red tunic over his hauberk which made his pale,
round face look sallow and washed out. Small green eyes stared out below
bushy brown brows. His body, ever broad and thick, was now portly and
his plain, kindly face flabby. The man did not cut an imposing figure.

"Sir Henry," she began rather nervously, "I bid you greetings."

"My Lady' de Launay," he exclaimed with sincere pleasure.

"It is some years since I have seen you."

"De Courcy now, my lord. I am recently married to Sir Guy." Ghislaine
gazed at him with steady eyes. No, she doubted if Henry had changed.

"Aye, I had heard rumours of that monstrous agreement." His gaze
transferred to the man beside her.

"You are not de Courcy, I take it?"

Ghislaine shook her head.

"Sir Arnaud d'everard is come to speak on my husband's behalf."

Henry Dettingham drew his small figure to his most imp6 sing l~eight and
stared pointedly at the handsome d'everard.

"The man is as great a coward as ever. He takes refuge within, I see."

Sir Arnaud's grey eyes glittered and Ghislaine knew he was reining in
his anger.

"My Lord de Courcy bids you greetings, Sir Henry, and begs you to
reconsider your position."

"The man's a coward," came the pompous reply and Henry turned to his
band of knights and shook his head.

"Guy de Courcy is innocent of the crime of murder.

He is hopeful of clearing his name and in doing so may discover the true
criminal. He regrets your loss deeply, Dettingham, and was heartsore
when your sister was killed. You must have heard he offered her
marriage."

Henry snorted rudely.

"If he was keen to marry Margaret, then he should have come to me first
before skulking around her skirts like the brigand he is."

"Sir Henry, I beg you to think again," broke in Ghislaine, Raking over
old insults would get them nowhere.

"My husband swears he committed no crime against Margaret and over the
past few weeks I have come to believe he speaks the truth." Sir Henry's
expression was not encouraging, but she decided to continue. He has
never denied his rough ways nor his ability to kill adeptly, but I have
come to know him as an honest man. Guy de Courcy would gain so little
from her death that it would make no sense."

"We waste time, Lady de Courcy. Your husband is a mercenary with a
liking for money. Margaret's keep was sacked of its wealth. There is
reason enough." Dettingham brushed aside her reasoning with a wave of
his gauntleted hand.

"It grieves me to see you so ~apped," but I offer you my protection.
Con~e with me to safety." Henry's green eyes watched her carefully.

"You mistake the matter, sir. I gave my husband my word that I would
remain loyal to him for all the right reasons. I stay here with my
people and my husband." Ghislaine lifted her chin proudly.

Sir Arnaud inclined his head in her direction.

"My lady speaks well.

Guy de Courcy refuses to come out because he will not waste blood
needlessly.

Go home, Sir Henry. The man responsible will, be found sooner or later
and then we can all live in peace. You do yourself no favours with the
Earl here."

"Think you to gull me so simply?" Dettingham hissed sharply.

"The Earl cares not whether a crime has been committed. His only concern
is to keep de Courcy alive so that he can receive his silver marks.

I'll wager that ao one is brought to justice under such a system."

Ghislaine stared at him, a thought striking h6r.

"How did you know where to find my husband?"

Henry Dettingham shrugged his shoulders. ~ "Walter de Belleme sent
word."

Sowalter'had tried to engineer this fight after all. Shocked at such
Underhand manipulation, Ghislaine searched the ranks of his men.

"He is not here, though?" she enquired carefully.

"No~ This is between me and de Courcy."

It was clear to (3hislaine that Henry was not going to go away. He
wanted a fight. Just as she was about to signal to Arnaud, there was a
shout from Dettingham's camp.

"The Earl's men!  ...  All eyes turned south; scouring the line of the
forest. Ghislaine counted at least thirty soldiers, stranding amongst
~[he trees. She breathed a sigh of relief. Thely had been saved.

Henry Dettingham jerked his horse's head round and turned back to his.
knights. Following several minutes of heated discussion, he returned to
Ghislaine and Sir Arnaud.

"Do not think for 6the moment/ that this is the end. You may have the
Earl's men to help you now, but [ shall kill de Courcy for what he has
done." He nodded briefly at Ghislaine.

"My compliments; Lady de Courcy."

So saying, he wheeled round and joined his army.

Wordlessly they departed, leaving Ghislaine to stare the reinforcements.

"They do not wear the Earl colours," She squinted her eyes to peer more
carefully.

"They are not the Earl's men. They belong to La, du Beauregard from
Omberleigh," came the curt reply Ghislaine 'looked at Arnaud in
surprise.

The m~ seemed not at all gr/~teful for Lady Helene's time intervention.

Confused, she turned back to the pa sade. She, for one, would welcome
the with pleasure.

CHAPTER NINE.

"Why did ety husband not meet with Henry Dettingham himself?." she asked
Sir Arnaud.

"It would have beei~ much simpler."

"Aye." all roved her companion as ~he helped her dismount.

"But Guy de Courcy places little trust in a man demanding vengeance at
any price.

Nor," he added grimly, 'has he any wish to kill him: Sir Henry is no
swordsman."

Once more on firm ground, Ghislaine turned to face her husband's friend.

"True, but I had no idea that Sir Guy would be willing to sacrifice his
reputation to compassion."

"Make no r~istake, lady," warned Sir Arnaud.

"If his life was in danger, Guy would not hesitate to fight. However, he
believes that Dettingham's death would neither clear l~is name nor allow
him the return of his old manor.? He flickered her a look of reproach.

"His name as all he has and the manor he lost was the first step to
making a real home for himself. He will not rest until they are
restored."

Their attention was claimed by a rider approaching the gates. He bore a
request from Lady du Beauregard for permission to enter the manor gates
and Ghislaine gave her assent.

"Do you nt~t stay to bid Lady du Beauregard welcome?" she chided, as
Arnaud turned towards the keep. Arnaud's grey eyes bore into her before
smiling 1~1 lightly.

"No doubt you ladies have much to' discuss Without my interference."

Ghislaine drew in her breath sharply at the inferred insult.

"I had thought you might wish to thank her for her timely appearance."

His grey eyes turned steely and 'seemed about to say something, but
thought better of it.

"I have no doubt that the lady will be more than satisfied with your
gratitude," he murmured finally, tossing the reins to the stable boy.

Lifting her chin, Ghislaine regarded him coldly. '1 had not thought you
the sort of man to continue a petty disagreement. Surely you can forgive
the Lady du Beauregard for hfir concerns over my health before the
marriage."

A frown marred his brow.

"You are too trusting, Lady Ghislaine.

People are not always as they seem." With those enigmatic words, Sir
Arnaud turned on his heels and picked his way across the mud-churned
bailey.

His words were most confusing, but Ghislaine had no time to ponder them
as Helene du Beauregard passed beneath the manor gates atop a
magnificent bay gelding.

"Greetings, Lady du Beauregard, and welcome." Ghislaine smiled as she
rushed towards the older woman. The stable lad aided Helene to dismount
and she brushed the dust from her riding cloak.

"I am pleased my appearance was timely," Helene remarked, her cheeks
flushed with the fresh air.

"I had feared I might be too late."

"You knew?" Ghislaine slipped her arm through Helene's and guided her
towards the hall. She was glad to see her friend appeared in better
health.

"Aye," came the guarded reply.

"I admit to being concerned for you and had some men watch over the
manor." She stopped and turned towards Ghislaine, taking the girl's
hands in hers.

"I hope you will forgive me for such an intrusion,. but there was every
possibility of a reprisal against your husband. I believe my men saved
your life with a good shot in the forest."

At last an explanation for the mystery. It was a relief to know that the
other men had been friendly. Ghislaine still remained somewhat surprised
by Helene's unexpected intervention, though, and thought back to
Arnaud's odd words of parting. Clearly he knew more about Lady du
Beauregard than she had at first thought. Smiling Ghislaine placed her
arm around the woman's shoulders and led her inside the keep.

"I can only be grateful for your vigilance since we remain safe."

When the du Beauregard troops were organised with ale, Ghislaine
returned to Helene. She was sitting comfortably by the fire in the hall
with her head tilted back and her eyes closed.

"You are tired, Helene? Perhaps you would prefer to lie on my bed for a
while?" Ghislaine regarded her anxiously.

Helene smiled and opened her eyes.

"Not at all, my dear. I have simply learnt to take advantage of every
opportunity to rest. A short nap can be most restorative." She sat up
and leaned closer to Ghislaine, gesturing her to sit by her side.

"And how have you fared, Lady de Courcy? Has marriage to the mercenary
been as bad as you feared?"

ELI:/. A I$ I~,"1 H

HI~N~HALL

Her expression showed concern rather than a desire for gossip and
Ghislaine did not take offence at the question.

Shrugging her shoulders, she smiled wanly.

"He is not an easy man to live with. Sometimes I think I have made some
progress and then he does something which causes me much vexation."
Placing her head on her hand, Ghislaine sighed heavily.

"He will be ~)leased to put me in the convent, I believe~!

Effie bustled up with some wine and a bowl of nuts. Helene smiled her
thanks and remained silent until she had' moved out of earshot.

"Do you still think him guilty of the murder?" Helene regarded her with
searching eyes.

Something in her. expression strdck a familiar chord in Ghislaine, but
the memory remained just out of.

touch. She lowered' her eyes and plucked absently at a loose thread on
her mantle, "No, and for all his brutish ways he has always been
straightforward in his dealings with me."

Pursing her lips thoughtfully, she edged a little closer to Helene. ,I
do not think him all bad" she admitted reluctantly, "And once. he was
even quite.: gentle? Her cheeks heated, but somehow she did not mind
talking to Helene.

"It had been a long time since she had.

confided in another woman.

Helene folded her hands in her lap and. stared into the fire as if deep
in thought.

"Would you perhaps reconsider your decision to retire to the convert[ if
your husband was more. amenable towards you?"

It was a question Ghislaine had pondered several times, over the past
week: Today she had learnt quite a lot more about her husband thanks to
Sir Arnaud and, despite her protestations to the contrary, his words had
given her pause for thought.

That day in the forest, Guy had admitted he found it hard to speak
gently.

In truth, pretty words were not what she wanted. She liked his honesty
and straightforward speech. Over the weeks he had proved hardworking,
responsible and astute. His authority over his men was absolute and in
return they offered him their loyalty--aye, he had even won over Edwin.
He lacked manners, but of late these had shown some improvement in her
company.

His temper, of course, left much to be desired and yet that was really
so much hot air.

Nor had he ~ver forced himself upon her, she reminded herself. Many
women of her station would no doubt welcome such a paragon!

"I think I find it hard knowing what he expects. of me," she murmured
softly.

"Sometimes he glares at meas if he hates me."

Helene shot her a sideways glance.

"Would you really prefer the convent?"

"I am not what he wants in a wife." Ghislaine's voice had take non a
weary tone.

"He frequently tells me how much trouble I am."

At that, Helene laughed.

"And what sort Of a wife would yoi~ think a man like Guy de Courcy
needs? A sweet, meek creature such as Margaret Staveley?" She raised her
dark brows in question.

"W-well ..." stammered Ghislaine, searching for' the right words.

Suddenly she stopped and looked at Helene.

"How do you know wl{at sort of wife he needs?"

"I know far more than you about Guy de Gourcy, my dear." She reached
down to smooth her gown over her knees.

"More to the point, I think you would make him a good wife." Her face
was expressionless as she watched her words sink in.

"Don't you?"

Ghislaine eyed her warily, confused by the way Helene had managed to
twist things round. She was reminded of Arnaud's parting words.

"I'm not sure."

"Well, perhaps you should find out."

Raising her hands in confusion, Ghislaine shook her head.

"I

understand none of this. Why are you so concerned about this marriage?

Neither of us wanted it and we have agreed to go our own ways once Guy's
name is deared."

' Helene smiled, her eyes resting on Ghislaine.

"I made mistakes in my marriage that I now regret and I do not wish you
to tread the same path."

It was quiet in the hall for a change with just the crackle and hiss of
the wood in the fire to disturb the peace. The shutters at the windows
had been clo~ed and the only light within came from the torches on the
walls. Now that the danger from Henry Dettingham had gone, temporarily
at least, the tension that had been building up had suddenly eased.

"I still don't see how ..."

Helene held up her hands.

"Eno:ugh talking, young lady. Since your mother is not here, I think I
knew her well enough to know she would approve of me giving you some
maternal advice. Come. Let us go to your room. I believe it is time you
were taken in hand."

Submitting herself reluctantly at first to Helene's lamentations over
her gowns, her hair and her freckles, Ghislaine eventually began to
relax.

Effie's presence was requested, and between them they experimented with
several suitable styles for 'her hair. Privately Ghislaine doubted
whether Guy would notice any difference in her appearance, but it was an
enjoyable experience nevertheless. She had never spent time on such
feminine frivolity, lacking both an attentive audience and a teacher,
but it was certainly a change from hunting down the Earl's game!

Once Effie was dispatched to concoct a salve for toughened hands, Helene
turned her attention to Ghislaine's clothes.

Casting a baleful eye over the contents of her wooden chest, she shook
her head.

"I cannot believe you manage with such rags. Has your husband said
nothing?" Helene picked up the tattered hem of Ohislaine's current gown
and let it fall in disgust.

"No. He seems to regard my gowns more as a method of restricting my
activities." Ghislaine hesitated and then added more quietly, "Nor is he
overly keen to spend his money. He does not seem to rate gowns very
highly." Feeling somewhat guilty for being disloyal, Ghislaine
continued, "But then, if I'm to enter the convent, there really seems
little point."

Treating that remark to a dismissive gesture, Helcne stared thoughtfully
at Ghislaine who was perched on the edge of her pallet.

"I have one or two gowns that might be suitable." She rubbed a long
finger over her chin.

"They might answer for now."

Neither of them had heard the door open.

"I'll thank you to leave the question of my wife's attire to me." Guy de
Courcy stood in the doorway, his hands placed somewhat aggressively on
his hips. Although he had at least removed his helm, Guy still wore his
battered leather hauberk and looked every inch the mercenary of his ill
repute.

Helene jerked her head in his direction. As the silence lengthened, the
tension between increased.

"Then the blame for such rags can be plac at your feet, my lord." The
lines around her mo~ deepened in disapproval.

"Does it give you pleasure see your wife shamed like this?"

Colouring furiously, Ghislaine jumped to her fe "Please, Lady du
Beauregard.

This is a matter bet we my husband and my sell Her words were ignored as
Guy and Helene fa( each other. '[ thought I had made it clear in Chest
lady.

Your presence is not welcome in my home." Gu handsome face was bloodless
as he eyed the worn with contempt.

Ghislaine felt as if she was a spectator in a scene's had only half
understood. She was certain now th knew each other.

"Guy! After Lady du Beaurega gave us aid against Henry Dettingham, the
least we c offer is our hospitality."

Her rebuke earned Ghislaine nothing more that scornful glance before he
advanced menacingly Helene.

"Lady du Beauregard has sampled enough our hospitality. I am sure she
has pressing business her own manor."

Ghislaine's cheeks burned with embarrassment such a pointed remark.

"Lady du Beauregard is w come to remain here as long as she wishes," she
hiss. glaring at her husband.

"This is also my home, Guy Courcy, and I have greatly enjoyed Lady
Beauregard's company. I have had little opportunity indulge in feminine
company over the past few yee and I confess to having missed it
greatly."

Boosted by the warm smile she received fr( Helene, Ghislaine watched him
cross the room. Ca: fully he placed his gleaming sword on the rushes and
then unfurled his great length on the bed. She was reminded very much of
a disgruntled child.

"It sorrows me to tell you this, wife, but I cannot permit your
acquaintance with  ...  Lady;..du Beauregard to continue." He stared at
her boldly, almost daring her to gainsay him.

"Give me one good reason for such an order," Ghislaine answered, her
hands almost shaking in anger. How dared he presume so much? They were
not man and wife in fact, after all.

His eyes glinted dangerously.

"Because she is a brazen whore." Guy raised Ghislaine's goblet of
unfinished wine to his lips and drained it in one movement.

Wheeling round to face Helene, Ghislaine was confronted with a raised
hand.

Helene was more than ready to deal with such lies.

"I have paid for my mistakes, in many different ways," she replied
wearily.

Her dark eyes were centred on the man laid out so nonchalantly on the
bed.

"And I see in Ghislaine and you much of myself and my husband. I have no
wish for you both to end up the same way."

Guy's frown deepened.

"I have no fear that you and Ghislaine are made of the same cloth, my
lady."

Helene stooped to pick up her cloak and threw it about her shoulders
with a proud flourish.

"Then you must tread. warily, my lord, for your wife does not seem very
content to me."

"No." she assured Ghislaine, turning to her quickly. "This quarrel has
naught to do with you, it is between me and Guy alone. I have no wish to
come between you and so I shall leave without further ado."

She squeezed Ghislaine's shoulders and headed for the door.

"If you need me, please send word."

With a quick nod towards them both, Helene left silently, Ghislaine felt
almost bereft.

"How could you say such things to her?"

"They were true." He looked up in surprise "I do not expect you to'
further your acquaintance with the woman, or the consequences will be
dire."

CHAPTER TEN.

"IF I am to dress, I need something to put on." Ghislaine's voice rose
in frustration. Her husband had sent Effie to wake her at dawn and her
mistress had not appreciated the early call. Sleep had been long in
coming the night before, with visions of Guy and Helene walking in her
dreams.

"He said you could wear this, my lady." Effie held up an old blue gown
that had been well-mended and that was definitely on the small side. She
looked at it dubiously.

"I did tell him that it didn't fit now, but he didn't seem to hear."

Ghislaine stared at the dress.

"So be it." She was too tired to argue and her head was aching.

Sighing heavily, Ghislaine donned the dress and allowed Effie to pull
her hair into a more becoming braid than usual.

"It doesn't seem as tight as it was," offered Effie as she surveyed the
fruits of her work.

Ghislaine smiled wanly.

"Aye. Sir Guy seems to have kept me hungry of late. Perhaps he had this
gown in mind?"

Seeing naught to smile at, Effie shot G'hislaine a look of exasperation.

"Well, not all of you has succumbed to his methods, it seems."

Ghislaine followed the direction of her eyes and admitted that the gown
was strained across her chest. She shrugged her shoulders.

"It would appear not."

The hall was quiet when she descended. Torc] spluttered on the walls for
the morning light was not advanced enough, but in the gloom she could
make the lone figure of Guy de Courcy. He was standing v his back to
her, watching the bailey from one of the ~, windows. At a sound he
turned, his hand on his swt It was not his instinctive reaction that
caused Ghisla to draw her breath so suddenly.

Her eyes widened as they took in the magnific sight before her. Never
could she have imagined ~ handsome he could be. His long hair had been
trimn and washed and his tunic of midnight blue gave Gu most elegant
appearance. Yet it was his face that, transformed. The weeks of thick,
stubbly growth I been barbered to reveal a face that was strong, mas
line and devastatingly attractive.

Realising that she was gaping at him, Ghish gathered her wits.

"I see you took my advice," she began tersely.

"B do not consider your first bath as cause enough to rc me from my
bed."

If he had expected a humble and contrite wife, was sadly mistaken.

Ghislaine's tongue was as sharl ever. A wry smile formed on his lips.

"No?" he countered.

"I had thought you most eage share the moment with me."

In an effort to dispel the effect of this vision masculine beauty before
her, Ghislaine retreated !

facial expression of complete disdai~n.

"Why am I here?"

Guy offered her a seat at the table. A serx emerged from the gloom to
provide her with a dollo grey porridge. If he noticed her gown was tight
made no mention of it, although Ghislaine was aware of his eyes on her.

"I have to leave for a few days." The statement was short and to the
point.

Ghislaine felt herself go cold. Already he could not bear her company.

"I still do not see why it necessitates my presence at this hour. Sir
Brian is perfectly capable of protecting the manor in your absence." Her
tone was cool and stiff, belying the turmoil within her.

His dark brows raised at this evident inaccuracy but he shrugged his
shoulders rather than voice his thoughts.

"Sir Brian could not tell me whether you wished to accompany me."

Her eyes flew to his. This was no jest.

"Where do you go?" The words were almost a whisper.

"Chester. On business with the Earl."

Ghislaine stared at him a moment, trying desperately to stop herself
from flinging her arms around him.

"And he wishes to see me?" Ghislaine certainly had no desire to see him.

Guy shook his head.

"I thought you might wish to purchase more spices and cloth. You have
spent the past few weeks pointing out how needy the kitchens are and I
have seen for myself that you are lacking in gowns."

"Aye," she replied as dutifully as she could.

"The kitchens are in sore need of stocks." Her eyes remained fixed to
the porridge, not risking a glance in his direction. Did the man think
this was some sort of chore?

"Then we leave in five minutes. I leave d'everard to aid the worthy Sir
Brian." Guy strode from the hall before she could utter a word.
Ghislaine sat there another full minute savouring the elation before
finishing the porridge and hurrying for her cloak. Life was certainly
not dull these days.

The sun was at its highest before the walls of Chester came into view.
The turquoise banner of Hugh d'avranches could be seen fluttering in the
March wind from the keep of the castle. Halting on a ridge some distance
to the south of the city, the party was able to view the comings and
goings at leisure.

Ghislaine watched the great River Dee flow and curve around the city
walls and then off north towards the sea. A large trading galley was
moored in the port on the west side amid a hubbub of activity, Below
them, to the south of the Bridge gate, the wheels of the flour mills
paddled steadily through the water. Beyond them stood the outline of the
Lupus's castle. Proud and impenetrable, its walls were heavily fortified
against any Welsh attack.

Pulling her cloak close to, Ghislaine could not conceal a shiver against
the cold wind that blew in from the coast. Morwenna stomped and
whinnied, keen to find a warm shelter and bag of oats. Ghislaine had
other reasons for wishing the journey ended, Her nerves had been
stretched to the limits by her endless expectation of an attack, either
from Walter de Belleme, Henry Dettingham or outlaws. Each noise had
caused her to jump and to look about carefully, her eyes locking on to
anything that moved. She had ridden alongside her husband, too nervous
to offer more than desultory conversation.

Guy, sensing her reluctance to talk to him, honoured her silence and was
pleased to sink into his own thoughts. He needed all his wits about him
to deal with the wily Earl of Chester.

It was with great relief that the party was allowed entrance to the
city.

The de Courcy colours had been identified long before they had reached
the bridge and the guards allowed them passage with little attention.
Quite carelessly, Ghislaine decided. Had her men done as much, she would
have had them whipped.

Inside the walls, the noise was almost deafening. The sounds of people
and animals echoed through the narrow, muddy streets that led off the
main way to the Cross. Ohislaine stared about her at' the cramped,
wooden buildings that crowded inside the walls. The smell of human life
washed around her and Ghislaine thought she was like to choke with the
stench, Her mother had 'been right about the place. It would be easy to
die here.

Her palfrey picked the way carefully through a filthy passage, her ears
twitching nervously when a screaming child came too close.

Ghislaine's eyes drank in the scenes as if seeing them for the first
time.

When she had visited with her father, he had insisted on taking her
directly to the castle, and she had barely a glimpse of the colour and
the life that existed within the cit, The streets were teeming with
noisy people who paid scant attention to the danger of Guy's huge horse.
Pedlars idled against the walls of the narrow dwellings~ their eyes
darting hither and thither, hoping to catch the attention of a passing
maid. Street-sellers mixed with bewildered farmers, journey-men with
tavern wenches. Ghislaine stared wordlessly at the stalls that sold fine
silks and linens, furs, cheese, soaps and pots.

As the cross came into view. Guy turned to the k and Ghislaine was able
to see another gate at the end the street. Beyond the top of the gate
fluttered the it~ of the large galley they had seen earlier in the harbo
Hardly able to contain her excitement, Ghislaine cot not help her gasp
of delight.

"We head for the harbour?"

Guy turned at her words, and watched her unguarc face for a moment.

"Aye. I have business with the captain of the lsabe, You will wish to
view the wares in the storehou along the quayside. Joachim will
accompany you."

Ghislaine nodded. Joachim was Guy's second-command when Arnaud d'everard
was elsewhere. F men were willing to gainsay him; for those that we his
menacing war-axe proved a mighty deterrent.

The party halted in the shadows of the old wood gate whilst Joachim
dealt with the guards. A ste," stream of merchants and purchasers made
their wa3 and out of the gate, but it was a sorry line' of da haired men
shuffling towards the harbour that cau Ghislaine's eye.

They were dressed in tattered lea[ and wool, chained at the ankle to the
man in front ~ behind. None looked anywhere except the grot before them,
their lips tight, backs straight.

"Where do they go?" Her eyes followed the men u~ they had passed between
the gates.

"They are slaves for trading." Guy's voice was to less in reply.

"They will board the Isabella and be enroute."

Ghislaine stared at his harsh profile.

"But they Welshmen."

"And are a valuable commodity to Hugh Lupus."

Sickened by the knowledge that these warriors would leave their
homelands, families, friends, to be sold to the highest bidder in a
foreign port, Ghislaine closed her eyes.

"Where is the Isabella bound?"

"She heads south to Normandy and then on east through the Mediterranean
to Genoa and Venice."

The day had suddenly turned sour. The dealings of men were sordid
indeed.

Ghislaine turned to look at her husband.

"You have business with the captain, you said?"

Guy nodded, his blue eyes following the silent line of warriors.

"Personal business." The flat tone of his voice and the set of his lips
brooked no further discussion, but Ghislaine could not help herself.

"Do you trade in slaves?" She regarded him steadily, her mouth equally
set.

Whether she realised it or no, her breath held until he gave his reply.

"Nay. I trade information only." His black frown dissuaded any further
discussion.

Ghislaine followed as Guy progressed slowly amongst the throng, her mind
busy with the latest piece of information he had given her. Why would
Guy de Courcy wish to buy information from a pedlar of human flesh? He
had denied trading, and she knew him so far to be honest.

Mayhap it had to do with the murder. She would have to keep her ears
open.

The ship was a truly breathtaking sight. From a distance it was
beautiful, but from close to she was magnificent. She bobbed gently with
the lapping waves, gulls flapping near her masts. The giant sail was
furled carefully away, leaving the rich wooden skeleton to rise and fall
majestically. Unable to tear her eyes from the Isabella, Ghislaine
watched the cargo being loaded by strangely garbed men of indeterminate
origins.

Guy de Courcy stood at her side, an eyebrow lifted in question.

"I'm sorry?" she said.

"Did you say aught?"

Guy viewed her distracted gaze with irritation.

"I said that I would join you in the warehouse later. This purse
contains more than you need for your purchases." He had her full
attention now, he noted wryly.

"Joachim knows what to do."

The leather pouch felt surprisingly heavy at her waist as she dismounted
outside a large wooden trading house. Guarding her money as best she
could, Ghislaine took grateful refuge behind Joachim as he cut a swathe
through the crowds. Ignoring the urgent requests of the traders to
sample their goods, he made his way silently to the far end of the
building, The noise and the colours were beginning to press painfully in
her head and Ghislaine longed to be out in the fresh air once more.

At the far end of the warehouse Joachim gestured Ghislaine to stop
whilst he disappeared behind a heavy arras. A moment later he emerged
once more and beckoned her to follow him. The arras hid another world
from the hubbub of the warehouse. Ghislaine's head echoed with the noise
and the colours, but gratefully entered into a small, low chamber that
at first seemed empty save Joachim and herself. A cool breeze gently
breathed air into her throbbing head and Ghislaine closed her eyes
momentarily with relief.

"Would you sit, lady? I will bring refreshments for you."

A small pair of faded blue eyes blinked up at her ' before uttering
words in a strange tongue into the gloom at the far end of the chamber.
Gratefully Ghislaine sank into the comfortable seat offered her. It was
like nothing she had ever encountered in her sheltered life. It was more
like a small, narrow bed but draped with cloth and padding that allowed
her to lie back and rest her weary shoulders.

"My thanks, sir. I would be most grateful for a little wine for we have
travelled far today."

The tiny man nodded his grey head and gestured towards the shadows.

He was dressed most oddly in a voluminous surcoat of blue and grey
~stripes, his thin hair pulled into a braid at the back of his large
head.

"I would suggest, my lady, that you may wish to try a tisane? A hot
drink that is both reviving and refreshing."

The merchant, for Ghislaine was now convinced that was his business,
stood before her, his hands clasped . before him in the manner of a
willing trader. And yet there was nothing humble about him. The man was
of indeterminate age, tiny but well-formed, and stood asiessing her with
eyes that spoke volumes.

Intelligence, shrewdness and compassion were visible in their pale blue
depths. Despite his lack of humility and his proud air, Ghislaine felt
at ease.

"That would be most welcome, sir." She smiled at him, a little unsure
for all the boldness of her words.

"I am sure that Joachim would also wish to try this, ,. tisane."

The merchant smiled faintly.

"Joachim's tastes will be catered for.

As you wish." A gnarled hand snapped in the air and a bronze flagon was
placed before the Frankish warrior by a small boy that Ghislaine would
have sworn came from thin air. At her nod, Joacl~ grabbed the flagon and
retreated to a gloomy cot where he proceeded to down its contents with
obvi relish.

The same boy brought another seat for his ma: and a small wooden table.
Upon the latter he place steaming bronze vessel and two tiny blue and wt
bowls.

Quite the most exquisite Ghislaine had e seen.

Her fingers reached out to touch them. They w smooth and very delicate.
The merchant proceede pour a light brown liquid into each bowl, the pung
aroma that met Ghislaine's senses quite unlike anything she had
encountered before.

He then picked up one the bowls and sipped lightly from the rim. Not
wish to seem ill-mannered, Ghislhine followed suit. tisane was strong
and so hot that it burnt her lips.

replaced the bowl firmly on the table.

The merchant's eyebrows raised in question. what may the house of Kalim
offer you, lady?"

" He perfectly still as he awaited her reply.

"My husband sent me in your direction for I h need of cloth and spices."
For some reason she co not fathom, Ghislaine was aware of an under curt
between them, as if he were expecting her to say mor{ After a brief
pause, Kalim smiled slowly to re~ perfectly white teeth.

"When you have finished y. tisane, lady, I shall be glad to show you my
wares."

Ghislaine sipped at the drink again more slowly, found after a short
while that the taste was becor~ less unpleasant. In fact, she certainly
felt less tired dusty.

"You know my husband?"

"Guy de Courcy has been known to me for m years, lady. I have always
found him to be a fair mar]. And an honest one."

Had the merchant added those last words for her benefit? She took
another sip of the tisane, allowing the strange flavour to fill her
senses before swallowing. The man was right, for she was beginning to
revive a little.

"You are not from this land?"

The merchant shook his head, causing his silver earrings to jingle.

"I am a merchant, lady, travelling from land to land. My home is where I
choose it to be." Ghislaine watched in fascination as his long, be
ringed fingers raised the bowl to his lips. As he did so, their eyes
collided and held. Kalim put the. bowl down slowly.

"May I ask you a question, lady?"

Ghislaine flushed at her implied gauche hess and inclined her head in
assent.

"Do you trust Guy de Courcy?" Those faded blue eyes bore into her,
compelling her to answer truthfully. After no more than a few seconds,
the words came.

"I, too, believe him to be an ho gest proud man who does not give his
word tightly. Although we have not dealt long together, I find myself
increasingly willing to trust him." Where had those words come from?

Ghislaine flushed at her garrulous tongue. How could she be so bold with
such a stranger?

"Then he chose well."

Ghislaine felt the blood rush to her cheeks, but her innate honesty
compelled her to explain.

"He did not choose me, I was forced upon him."

All her shame and misery were expressed in those few words. The merchant
watched her for a moment as if deep in thought.

"It is often so that the burdens we ] find the hardest to bear may bring
us the rich rewards." Kalim sighed before rising gracefully to feet.

"I will show you some of my wares now, la, Maybe you will find something
that takes your eye?"

His gentle smile chased away some of the gloom was feeling at being
reminded of her predicame Ghislaine rose, her limbs stiff from the long
ride, grateful to avoid further conversation of such a g sonal nature.
It was indeed painful to be reminded her shortcomings.

Kalim's chamber was filled with beautiful cloth wh Ghislaine eyed
longingly.

Bolts of gorgeous mater: were paraded before her and Ghislaine found
choice almost impossible. Practicality, however, re serted itself and
she decided finally on soft grey ~ blue wool for herself, and
serviceable browns ~ greens for the servants. Two bolts of linen were
ad~ to her list. A rich red brocade, chased with gold cau her eye, and
in a fit of extravagance, Ghislaine deci, that Guy would look
particularly fine in a tunic of's attractive hue.

Realising that her husband was ~ probably in need of further garments,
she purcha some green and blue wool which could always be u for others
if need be.

The food spices were more easily purchased. Gini cinnamon, nutmeg, mace,
doves and cardomoms w placed in a small chest, together with galingale,
cub and grains of paradise to flavour the salted-down wit meats. Kalim
also persuaded her to try currants, and dates as well as a generous
portion of almond use on fast days and Lenten stews.

Reminded that husband had a sweet tooth, Ghislaine added some d fruits
to try in the custard confections he seemed partial to.

As she was deliberating over the wines, the arras was pulled back and
Guy de Courcy stalked into the chamber. One look at his grim countenance
told Ghislaine that she had probably purchased far more than she had
licence to do and his disapproval told its own story.

With a curt nod to Kalim, who bowed quietly and retreated to the
shadows, Guy stopped before Ghislaine.

"I see you have nigh on exhausted my funds, lady." As the expression on
his face did not change, Ghislaine gulped quietly before mentally
discarding those items not absolutely essential. She cursed her own
greed and childlike excitement in having such great choices. Pulling at
her fingers, she murmured that she had indeed gone beyond her limits.

There was a momentary pause before Guy spoke in a more gentle tone,
"Perhaps you would show me what you intended to take." Ghislaine nodded
and commenced an item by item account of her purchases, but it was not
long before Guy interrupted with amusement in his voice.

"Wife, your choices are most creditable. But," he added softly, "I

had hoped that you would buy yourself some more . ah . some finer
cloth."

Ghislaine looked up at him sharply. Gone was the grim frown that he had
entered the chamber with. Mayhap she had misinterpreted his look.

"I thought only to dress appropriately, in the circumstances, my lord."
Her tone had returned to its usual waspishness and that brought a faint
smile to his lips.

"Aye. And your choice of cloth is most  ...  worthy."

His large hand raked his black locks as he surveyed assortment of
cloths.

"Kalim. It would seem I have n of your excellent advice." The merchant
stepped ward.

"My wife requires some finery. Have you a~ that would do?"

Seizing his opportunity, Kalim smiled broadly pulled down bolt after
bolt of jewel-bright emer and blues, golds and creams, chased and plain.

"With your lady's unusual hair colour, perhaps s~ brighter hues that
would enhance and complement?"

Ghislaine held her breath as her husband and merchant selected three~
Ghislaine could hardly bel that she needed anything near so fine and yet
found protests sounded weak even to her own ears. The of her possessing
such beautiful gowns was an exh ating one. Together the merchant and Guy
had deci upon the emerald-green and the peacock-blue , little
difficulty. It was the final choice that had Ghisl: feeling no more than
a fine object. When they finally plumped for a gold brocade chased with~
n, ight-blue, Ghislaine had retreated to a dark corm high dudgeon. No
one hfid consulted her about choice, and much as she approved of the
material, remained inexplicably angry nevertheless.

Ignoring her protests, Guy then went on to exa~ the brooches and belts.
His largesse was making feel most uncomfortable and she had no idea hm
stem the tide of such uncalled-for generosity. A' time in her life had
anyone bestowed such gifts't her and, in truth, it was hard to accept
them so. She used to very little, and realised how ruiner that made her.

"Are you purchasing my goodwill, sir?" she demanded finally.

Her rudeness took him by surprise for he had genuinely not realised how
offended his wife was becoming.

"I did not know you offered it for sale. Had I done so, I feel certain
it would have cost me less dear."

His bantering tone only aggravated Ghislaine more and he knew it.

"You are most insulting. If you wish something of me, you have only to
ask, although that is not within your nature since you took the rest of
my possessions without my leave." So saying, Ghislaine flounced towards
the arras and would have pulled it aside had Joachim not fores tailed
her with his huge bulk. Not relishing the prospect of an undignified
scuffle that she would undoubtedly lose, Ghislaine sat on the
comfortable seat.

"Perhaps my lady would now like to take some Wine whilst Sir Guy
completes his purchases?" Kalim stood 'before her, his cool eyes
informing her of his disapproval.

Aye, her behaviour had been less than ladylike and she flushed with
shame that she could have let her feelings show. Since Guy de Gourcy had
entered her quiet life, Ghislaine had found her emotions difficult to
contain. And there was no good explanation for her bad temper. She would
enter the convent as soon as he cleared his name.

That was what she had demanded and he had agreed. Why she found it so
difficult to behave normally when she was with the man, Ghis! aine was
at a loss to explain. Mayhap her wits had gone begging after all.

"I do not deserve such consideration, Kalim, but you may be right. The
wine might help to restore my temper, if not my wits."

Kalim bowed gracefully before the repentant Ghislaine before summoning
the boy once more.

"Your husband is not a man used to sharing, lady. But he acts with no
ill will."

"I know it," Ghislaine murmured.

"I, too, have much to learn."

Kalim smiled.

"It is not my place to suggest it, but perhaps he has much on his mind."

The merchant retreated to a gloomy corner and involved himself in
searching amongst his wares for something that was no doubt vital.

Joachim, apparently satisfied that she was not about to escape the
dutches of her husband, sidled rather self-consciously towards Kalim and
muttered a few words under his breath. Ghislaine picked up the two
goblets of. fruity red wine that the boy offered and made her way
towards Guy. Her husband was frowning at the pile of cloth and did not
change his expression when he saw her approach.

She gritted her teeth.

"It is not usually my way to be so ill-mannered." Ghislaine ignored the
raising of his eyebrow.

"Well, perhaps it is. But you did not deserve such treatment."

Guy took the wine stiffly, not in the least mollified by his wife's
words.

"If the cloth was not to your liking, you only had to say," he said
finally.

Ghislaine's cheeks flushed.

"I like your choice well enough. It's just ..." her sentence trailed off
as his blue eyes pinned her mercilessly, She tried again.

"It is pointless to waste such finery when I am bound for the convent."
The words were spoken but still she held her breath.

Guy knocked back the wine before slamming the goblet down on the table.

"Maybe so. But I have no need to be laughed at further by having a wife
who looks like a serf. Until you take your vows, lady, you will dress
with more care and not be sport yourself in gowns that do little to hide
your ample  ... charms."

Her face burned with the indignity and the implication.

"You chose this gown yourself," she hissed in fury.

"It was the only one that hid your ankles," he retorted heatedly.

"No one else seems to have noticed that before." Walter de Belleme's
eyes Were hot on you last week?" he growled. His hand raked back his
black hair as his temper rose.

"So that's it!" Ghislaine's outburst was one of complete disbelief.

"You do not want me, but you will not allow anyone else to have me
either.

There is no dealing with you, Guy de Courcy," So saying, Ghislaine would
have pushed her way past him, but her husband was quick to react. Her
arm was caught in a hard grip that brought tears to her eyes. Looking up
at him with fury, Ghislaine got a perverse pleasure from seeing that he
was equally as wroth.

"I am no uncouth soldier to be ordered around as you see it, my lord. I
will not be treated as less than a member of your family," Those words
earned a humourless laugh.

"If you wish to be treated like a lady, then you needs act more like
one. If you do not, then I give you fair warning that your people will
suffer harder than you."

CHAPTER ELEVEN.

GHISLAINE glared at Guy as she waited for him. He taken his time over
the final transactions knowing the delay would irritate her. The chamber
seel much smaller since his arrival and she longed to b, the fresh air
and sunlight--or what remained of it. had no idea how long she had spent
with the. merch but she was certain that it was longer than Guy
intended. And more expensive.

The thought that she had spent more than absolutely necessary did not
give her any pleasure Ghislaine felt irritated with herself that she had
allo' Guy to purchase the extra cloth. And yet his jealc had given her a
warm glow that had not died in't clash. It was completely unexpected and
all the rr surprising since he had given her no indication that took any
n$tice of her or how people treated her.

As she watched him now, Ghislaine no longer k what to think. His
countenance remained as grim dour as ever, but from the way he stood and
talked, the merchant, it was clear they had dealt with e other of times
before, as the merchant had said. purses of silver marks that Guy handed
over were f; excess of the amount due, as Ghislaine was an What possible
reason would he have for giving K. so much? The answer was not likely to
come easil could be an old debt, but knowing her husba insistence on
paying for goods with silver in the h Ghislaine doubted that was the
reason. More likely it had more to do with the murmured words than aught
else.

When he joined her, Guy was frowning darkly.

"Tis time we left. I have business with the Earl." His voice reflected
his irritation.

"I  ...  I wish to apologise for my behaviour," Ghislaine began.

"It was uncalled for." She peeped at his face shyly, but her heart
plummeted when she saw his expression unchanged.

"My father.. ,I ..." Why were the words so difficult. "? She tried
again.

"I am not used to receiving gifts and have not learned to be graceful in
my thanks." Her eyes held his steadily. "If it makes you happy to bestow
such finery upon so unworthy a recipient, then I will gladly accept:"

"Tis lucky that I did not return the cloth then," came his curt reply.
Despite the coolness of his words, Ghislaine was sure she detected a
slight thawing in his manner. Well, at least the man was predictable in
his grouchiness and she would have to be content with that. Except that
those moments in the fores. t when he showed such gehtleness kept
intruding in her dark thoughts.

Aye, the man had a softer side to him, and perhaps it was best hidden.

It was the smell of roasting pig that set her mouth '"watering as they
walked up the wooden steps of the castle bailey.

The castle guests had been called to dinner almost as soon as they
entered the gates, and Ghislaine had been sore pressed to wash, brush
her hair and shake the dust from her gown. Aware of how dowdy she
appeared, especially as her husband looked so fine, Ghislaine quaked
inwardly at having to face the court of Hugh d'avranches. Unable to
quell the trebling of her hands she hoped that Guy would not not it
through his thick surcoat.

"I had not thought you feared me, lady." They dr to a halt beneath a
flickering torch. The dark frown ominous but not threatening for all his
great size. It on the tip of her tongue to tell him that, aye, she fea~
him, to hurt him just a little for his grudging acceptm of her apology,
but the words would not come. An~ and frustration played far more on her
emotions tl~ fear, and she doubted that lying would help much.

"I do not fear you, my lord:' Then why does your hand shake so?"

Ghislaine glared at her husband. Did the man re~ 'not know how she must
feel about entering a room of spiteful tongues, especially dressed as
she was?

Tr~ the man was lacking in wits.

"Have you really no idea?"

He shook his head in confusion.

"I would not ha asked if I did, but as you have pointed out before, wits
are dearly lacking."

Mercy! Could the man read her mind no Ghislaine's cheeks burned a little
at his percepti, After a glance about the bailey to ensure that they w{
alone, her eyes returned to his.

"I have no wish to ma a fool of myself before the Earl's court," Guy
just stopped himself from raising his eyebro This was probably not the
moment to remind her t] she had made a fool of herself there before
without ~ help from him.

"How so?"

Ghislaine gave him a withering look that ~v rewarded with a quizzical
shrug.

Sighing irritably, s decided that she would have to tell him.

"I look like a serving wench in this gown," she hissed. "And you look so
fine. They will laugh at me and pity you." Folding her arms firmly
across her chest, Ghislaine turned away from Guy, embarrassment stamped
across her burning cheeks.

Guy cursed his own stupidity. Were women not well-known for their
foolishness over their gowns? And there was also that tiny feeling of
relief to know that the woman did not fear him. Where had that come
from? And those other words?

"Fine? You think I look fine?" "Have I not already said so?" came the
disgruntled reply.

"My finery is an improvement, then?"

Ghislaine shrugged her shoulders, reluctant to commit any more words and
knowing that her actions were childish but unable to react any other
way.

"Mayhap this will help? I had thought to give it to you later ..."

Ghislaine turned round slowly to face her husband. The man was really
infuriatingly unpredictable in this strange mood, and she was not at all
sure that she preferred it. At least when he was frowning she knew where
she stood.

In his outstretched hand was a small bundle wrapped in blue cloth which
she took with a rather bemused smile. What on earth had come over him?

Carefully she undid the thin cord and unwrapped the gift.

Tis beautiful, my lord." Never had she seen a more magnificent belt.

Three fine strands of gold were interwoven with a delicate pattern of
filigree. An opal gleamed prettily from the clasp. Guy took it from her
shaking fingers and placed it around her waist. His closeness had an
immediate effect on her heart which suddenly began to pound. If he
noticed, Guy gave no sign of it.

"It would please me were you to wear it this night." He was standing so
close to her that she was forced to look up directly into his eyes.

"I have never seen so pretty a belt--" she began, but her words were
halted by a finger on her lips.

Whatever he was about to say was interrupted by a loud gurgling. Guy
grinned down at her burning cheeks. "Perhaps the clinking of the belt
will disguise the noise from your stomach, lady. But unless you eat
soon, I will be accused of your starvation?

The great hall was alive with light and music when they arrived.

Scented beeswax candles lit up the rich colours of the tapestry hangings
on the walls and the huge fire at the top end of th~ hall was stoked
with the more pungent wood from the orchards. New rushes had been
recently laid on the floor, although the hounds that fouled them were
still in residence, Ghislaine noted with a sniff.

Drawing a long, steadying breath, Ghislaine stepped into the light.

For a few heartbeats she was plunged into dazed' confusion by the sight
that greeted her. There must have been close on fifty people sitting at
the long table, ranged on either side Of the hall. Others remained
standing, talking or watching a dazzling performance of acrobats and
jugglers. Above the noise and hilarity Ghislaine could hear the music of
the troubadours.

Hugh d'avranches surveyed his court from the raised dais in front of the
fire. Lounging back in his chair with his thick arms stretched across
the back of his neighbe' IRA 1~19 HI~AKI~

hour's, his eyes surveyed the scene with regal satisfaction. Feeling his
eyes on them, Ghislaine was almost tempted to retreat to the shadows of
the ladies' bower, but she knew that she would have to face these people
sometime and she would not be called a coward.

A large hand covered hers and placed it gently on his sleeve, reminding
her of his presence. Ghislaine darted a look of grateful relief into
Guy's glittering blue eyes and then lifted her chin as she tried to walk
gracefully to their places on one of the lower tables.

It was as if they were walking through a sea of eyes. With her stomach
churning, Ghislaine tried to shut out the scorn directed towards her and
concentrate on each step at a time. If only she had taken more notice of
her mother's strictures on dress and behaviour, she would not be feeling
so gauche. , The open admiration she witnessed as the women caught sight
of her handsome husband only made her misery greater. That Guy de Gourcy
was feeling as uncomfortable as she only served to fuel her frustration.

Had he not kidnapped her, none of this would be happening. As they took
their seats, her stiff, tight-lipped expression caused Guy to frown in
confusion.

That Hugh d'avranches always provided an excellent feast was the only
reason for which Ghislaine had to be grateful. Roast pork, venison and
lamb were served to the lower tables, either plain or cooked with garlic
and honey.

The emergence from the pantry of an elaborately stuffed peacock earned a
buzz of excitement amongst the guests, although Ghislaine found the
flavour not at all to her taste.

Fortified at last by strong wine, well-spiced food and de Launay
courage, Ghislaine scanned the crowd for a glimpse of a familiar face.

She spotted Walter easily as he stood near the fire talking to a tiny
woman with thick blonde tresses and an older man, presumably her father.
Walter had a silver goblet in his hand and his head was bent low as he
listened attentively to the smiling girl. He laughed at something she
said and Ghislaine flushed as she remembered only too well the way he
had laughed with her.

Oblivious to the din around her, Ghislaine watched him and realised how
little she really knew of the man. Here, in the great castle, Walter de
Belleme was in his element. He revelled in the power and the glamour,
the hubbub and the excitement. All the things she hated and would have
despised him for in time. Part of her girlish dreams Oissipated with the
laughter and the noise and a~veil came down over her heart. Never again,
she vowed silently, would she be so naive.

Abruptly, Ghislaine forced her wandering wits back to reality as she
realised belatedly that she had continued to stare at Walter, and that
he had suddenly looked up to~atch her in the act, Flushed with
embarrassment over being caught staring, Ghislaine hurriedly reached out
for the goblet of wine before her, knocking it over.

"I suppose you think that was my fault as well?" The words sounded harsh
but Ghislaine was sure that she detected teasing. She turned sharply to
look at Guy.

About to open her mouth in retort, the meaning of his words suddenly
sank in.

It was impossible to stop her lips from forming into a quirky smile.

"Whatever made you think that?" she replied airily.

"Hah! It is any immense fortune that your eyes are not weapons, else I
would be long dead, lady." Guy tossed another goblet of the wine down.

"Most fortunate indeed, my lord. However, I do have other weapons at my
disposal that could fichieve the same end." Was this really' Guy de
Gourcy she was talking to? Nay, flirting with? He was surely not the
same man?

That seemed to strike a chord within and Guy burst out laughing.

Ghislaine looked on amazed. Without the grim frown, the man was
positively beautiful. She did not doubt it for almost every woman in the
vicinity had turned to look at him.

"Ah, yes. The ale."

"Ale?" She looked at him quizzically. Perhaps his wits had gone
a-begging after all.

"Nay, I was talking about my arrows." A quick glance round at the rest
of the hall told her that they were no longer the focus of attention. "I
have a good aim." The pride in her voice shone through.

Guy turned the full force of his blue eyes upon her. "There are times,
lady, when you miss the target." His eyes strayed momentarily towards
Walter and Ghislaine flushed as she realised that he had witnessed her
humiliation. Had he been watching her then? Her eyes searched his face
but she detected no sign of pity. And she did not wish to see that from
him, she realised. His teasing, however, was most unsettling. To cover
her discomfort, Ghislaine took another sip of the wine. It burnt a path
to her stomach and boosted her courage.

ELI Z, ABI::, i H

H 13N~HALL

"I thought you had business with the Earl?" she enquired coolly.

"Aye, but I had not reckoned with this." His large hand gestured to the
gathering before them. In doing so, he clipped his goblet and the red
wine seeped across the table.

A mortified sigh from the page behind them caused the two of them to
twitch their lips conspiratorially. "It would seem that we have a
problem, the two of us." Ghislaine could not prevent an involuntary
chuckle over his double meaning and she looked at him with a warm
sparkle in her eyes.

"Just the one, my lord?" she enquired conversationally.

Guy gave her a withering look and raked his hair back. The familiar
gesture sent a smile fluttering across Ghislaine's face, but the frown
on de Courcy's deepened.

"Do not waste your pretty smiles on me, lady. I am not de Belleme."

The icy tone of his voice doused the warmth of her feelings most
effectively and Ghislaine was left wondering why on earth she had ever
thought the man was human. Her thought~ were interrupted by a large hand
grasping Guy's shoulder.

"So, de Gourcy. It pleases me that you came with such speed. I was
mightily concerned that you might have fallen foul of Dettingham after
all." ~ Hugh d'avranches' blue eyes bored into Guy with piercing
shrewdness.

Ghislaine noticed that her husband's black frown had turned into one of
icy politeness and for some inexplicable reason, it pleased her.

At least she had not been subject to his cool distance.

"I was given to believe that you desired my presence immediately."

The Earl's fat jowls quivered as he nodded, the hooded eyes not leaving
Guy de Courcy for a moment. A slow smile crept over the fleshy lips but
it did not reach his eyes.

"Your directness is most commendable, de Courcy, as one would expect
from a mercenary."

The intentional sneer in the Earl's voice caused Ghislaine to hold her
breath: but her husband surveyed him with an expression devoid of
feeling.

"I take it that you are in need of my skills, sire?" His voice was as
cold as ice.

Hugh d'avranches returned the cool stare and then transferred his gaze
to Ghislaine who had remained silently seated, praying to God that he
would forget about her. Unfortunately, God was not listening this night.

"My lady. A pleasant surprise."

Ghislaine inclined her head stiffly, murmuring her words of
acknowledgement.

"Marriage seems to suit you, my lady."

Ghislaine shot him a quizzical look.

"I had not noticed any appreciable difference, my lord." "My foresters
have reported no lack of game near your manor since your wedding and for
that I must extend my thanks to your husband."

The Earl smiled lazily at her and Ghislaine could feel the heat rush to
her cheeks. She noticed that several of the couples seated near them
were watching avidly 'and seemed to be enjoying her discomfort.

Before she could reply in kind, Guy interrupted.

"I can take no credit for the increase in your game, sire, but it may be
that the poachers have stayed away since 1// the arrival of my men."
Ghislaine shot him a grateful smile.

The Earl briefly inclined his head.

"Then I may be doubly in your debt, de Courcy. Not only have you
curtailed your wife's less endearing habits but you seem to have the
manpower I need at the moment."

Guy's expression did not alter.

"The men I have, sire, but I cannot admit to aught else. In truth, I
have found my wife's behaviour most  ...  refreshing. Marriage is far
more diverting than I had imaginedj Ghislaine could hardly believe her
ears. Guy de Courcy was defending her before half the court. No doubt he
had a reason, came the voice Of conscience. Aye, but it felt good to
hear none the less.

"Most gratifying, de Courcy. Then mayhap we can examine the extent of
your gratitude privately." This was not a question. Hugh d'avranches
nodded to his two nearest companions. One she recognised as William Fitz
Nigel whose lands stretched far beyond the rest in the county.

The other was a small err younger man who had a look of the Earl.

Ghislaine decided he was probably one of the Earl's bastards.

Guy rose to follow the three men without even a glance at her, but his
words had been enough. She did not trust the Earl and whatever business
he had with her husband would no doubt be dangerous.

Ghislaine's eyes searched one~ more for Walter. She had to find out
whether Walter was still entertaining hopes to kill Guy and the only way
she could do that was to talk to him. Fortdying herself with another
goblet of the soft wine, Ghislaine determined to find him.

She did not have to search far. A gentle hand grabbed her wrist as she
made her way towards the acrobats.

"Well met, my lady!" Walter's soft grey eyes roved over Ghislaine's
face.

Whatever his feelings, they were well hidden. Did he trust her still?

"I had not thought to see you here, Sir Walter." Her voice was
deliberately prim and cool since their last parting had been less than
cordial

"Nay?" His blond hair curled perfectly around his handsome face and
Ghislain suddenly wondered why she had found him so trustworthy.

Everything about him, from his delicate hands to his handsome boots,
seemed so perfect. She noticed his lips twitch as he took in her drab
attire. Had he always been so?

"Then a happy coincidence, my lady."

Ghislaine smiled at him wanly; "It would appear that this is not your
only happy coincidence, Sir Walter. You seem to make a habit of talking
to ladies."

She hoped fervently that his vanity would take control and think her
suffering no more than jealousy. His grey eyes brightened considerably
at her words: "Blanche?" His eyes surveyed her speculatively.

"She was a close friend of my wife. I had not seen her since
Anne-Marie's death." His demeanour suddenly took on a much more sombre
appearance. It was strange that she had not noticed that chameleon-like
ability before.

A rather cheerful conversation under the circumstances, thought
Ghislaine suspiciously. And if the name rang true, Blanche Cholmondston
was one of the wealthiest widows in the county. How simple he must think
her. And yet, if he thought her so gullible, it might not be too
difficult to allay any suspicions he might have about her.

"Forgive me, Sir Walter, but I have not been myself of late." She peered
up at him shyly, her mouth making a brave attempt at a cheerful smile.

"My marriage not of my making and I fear that I need some time tl
adjust." Her fingers twisted nervously at the gold' draped low over her
hips.

"My husband is not..

man I would have chosen."

Ghislaine took a chance and turned her eyes bac her companion.

"I

hope you Will not think ill of manners, Sir Walteft' Sympathetic grey
eyes pierced into her and Ghisl: wondered, just for a second, whether
she had't misunderstood him and Walter was still the man had dreamed he
was.

Ruthlessly Ghislaine quashed thought.

She had not dreamed up his plan to kill I de Courcy.

"I think I have already told you howi feel,~ Ghislai The words were
murmured softly so that only she c hear.

"Mayhap I expressed myself too strongly at time."

"I had not expected it," she replied quietly.

"Had you not?" His voice inflected a little so that would he;~r the
amusement in his words.

"For all '. simple appearance, I have never underestimated yo~ Was that
a warning? Ghislaine raised an eyeb She would have to brave it out.
Around them acrobats flared into action, encouraged by the app~ ative
shouts of their audience. They watched a woman draped in green and gold
fly through the a be caught by her burly companion.

Ghislaine 1o towards the dais but was denied sight of Guy b3 crowd that
had gathered around the acrobats.

Ghislaine turned back towards Walter and wat him as he laughed at the
players before him. His was soft and lightly tanned. Strange that she
had n noticed that about him.

"You spoke of a plan. Have you thought any more of it?"

Walter's eyes remained glued on the shapely form of the woman.

"Nay.

Not as yet." His eyes darted quickly in Ghislaine's direction.

For a sick moment, Ghislaine wondered if Walter de Belleme had seen
through her after all, but judging by his slight smile, she decided he
hadn't.

Across from them the woman acrobat smiled invitingly at Walter. Slowly
he turned his head towards Ghislaine.

"I was waiting for your assent."

Ghislaine's heart froze as she heard the soft words. "My assent?" she
whispered hoarsely.

"What had you in mind?"

"Oh, nothing terrible. A simple riding accident in the forest. Or an
ambush." The words seemed to Ghislaine to have been plucked out of thin
air, but they had not. She knew that deep within her. Walter de Belleme
wanted her husband dead.

"When?" came her quiet reply. She had to. know Her heart was racing as
she waited.

"Not yet." Walter turned the full blast of his soft eyes upon her as he
gently pulled her fingers to his lips.

"Not yet, sweet Ghislaine."

The feel of his lips made her jump back in surprise. Walter smiled.

"I will come for you soon. ' They parted before crowds of people as if
they had done no more that speak of the weather or of hunting. His bow
was perfect even if hers was rather clumsy. Ghislaine made her way back
to her seat in a whirl of thoughts.

The gentle flickering of the torch in the ladies' bo drew Ghislaine's
eyes.

Sleep had eluded her for s{ time and she could tell from the lightening
shad that dawn was well underway. And yet it had not't the coughs nor
the snores from the other ladies that kept her awake, even though the
noise from [ would have been loud enough to waken deaf Leo~ the village
smith. Nay. It had been Guy de Courcy had caused her puzzlement.

"The moment Ghislaine had left Walter to resume seat, Guy had swooped
down on her. Without a w her husband had led her from the hall, smiling
coo'll passing courtiers and their ladies, until they had rear the other
side of the heavy doors, He had gripped arm so tightly that she could
feel the bruise even r Tight-lipped, he had propelled her without a word
to door of ~e ladies' bower. His face was dark and an and instinct
warned her not to say a word. What the cause of his anger, she was sure
she would find of " If you take an assignation with de Belleme," he
whispered in her ear with such disgust, 'then I pro~ you, lady, your
people will find out the truth ol reputatiom Do you understand me?" He
underliner question by shaking her. ~ "Yes!" As the answer had been
wrenched from Guy had pushed her roughly from him and sta away into the
shadows, leaving Ghislaine to recove~ breath and her senses.

That had been hours past and Ghislaine wa." nearer the answer than she
had been then. See respite from her jumbled thoughts, she finally cb her
eyes and sank into a wild turmoil of shatt pictures and voices.

CHAPTER TWELVE.

GHISLAINE stared gloomily at the hunched shoulders of Guy de Courcy, his
whole body radiating anger and irritation. Light rain was blowing in
gusts from the north-west and dusk was already sweeping across the
darkening sky as the band moved steadily onwards. Relief began to seep
through her bones as Ghislaine recognised familiar landmarks.

Home was not far now.

The journey back to Chapmonswiche had been a long one. Guy had hardly
addressed one civil word to her and had treated her like a leper.

Indignantly she had remained behind Guy's destrier, resenting her
petulant reaction but wishing to provoke a reaction all the same.

As they headed towards the forest, Ghislaine's preoccupation with their
safety grew. The outlaws operated almost with impunity in the area,
especially in the darkening half-light. It would, she decided, be very
easy for Walter to do the same. A cold shudder ran through her.

Ghislaine eyed the forbidding back of her husband with increasing
uncertainty. Guy de Courcy had been acting like a jealous lover ever
since he had seen her talk with Walter. He had asked her no questions
nor, more oddly, had he offered any opinions on her behaviour. He had
just taken her away without a word. If she told him why she had been
talking to Walter, she doubted very much that he would even listen.

ELIZABETH flen~I-IALL A rustling of the leaves to the side of the track
m her jerk her head round, but nothing was th~ Ghislaine's heart slowed
down and she wiped her pa on her dusty cloak. Guy had barely spared a
glanc the direction of the noise and she silently cursed ignorance. Of
all the people she knew, he was the { one who was capable of resisting
any attack of fore was his living and he would be defending his ~
property. Resolving at least to try to talk to't Ghislaine gently
spurred her horse on to catch up ~ her husband.

"Why have you left Joachim in Chester,?" she asked, pleasantly as the
gusting wind would allow. Guy's silence echoed about them whilst the
guards sta doggedly on ahead. Ghislaine shot him a dark look ~ fell on
very stony ground.

Angered by his continued refusal to talk to 1 Ghislaine tried another
tack.

"Surely you did not fo Joachim, my lord?" Her mocking exclamation eat
her at least a hardening of the jaw, a sure sign that was listening,
Poor Joachim," she con ting unabashed.

"But yes, you have the right of it, Sir Joachim is not really a man you
w6uld notice, although his skills are certainly ..."

"Cease this prattle, girl. Joachim remains in Che to oversee the
supplies.

To my mind 'tis your wits ~ have gone awandering."

Guy settled back into disgruntled silence, his ~ fixed. on the path
ahead.

Ghislaine sighed. At least had earned his attention if nothing else.

"My wits?" she continued in shock horror. Cocl her head to one side as
if contemplating the thou Ghislaine then smiled broadly.

"You are right course. It was my foolish wits that allowed me to be
taken hostage by a desperate mercenary, to be married off as part of
some deal and then treated as if I didn't exist. And," she continued
with inspiration, 'if that weren't enough, as a reward I have been
allowed to spend the rest of my days in a convent, to forgo children and
all those other domestic chores that seem to give the rest of womankind
such pleasure."

Ghislaine slid her eyes over Guy's face and decided she was about to get
a reaction.

"Your mindless chatter is doing naught but testing my temper, girl. If
you had any wits about you, you would be contemplating how best to avoid
my hand on your backside when we reach home." Guy spurred his horse a
little faster as if to place himself beyond her reach, Ghislaine was
momentarily diverted by his use of the word 'home' to think about what
else he had said. It seemed strange to hear anyone other than her family
call the manor home.

When she finally realised what the man had said, her irritation with:
his pigheaded, obstinate truculence provoked her into more drastic
action.

Kicking her horse forward, Ghislaine suddenly galloped ahead. With the
wind and the rain pelting into her face it was hard to see where she was
going, but she ploughed on. Behind her, Ghislaine could hear the shouts
of men and on another level a heavy thud that could only be her
husband's horse.

Determined to put as much distance between them as she could, Ghislaine
pushed on.

The track they were following to the side of the forest was awash with
mud and rainwater, and Ghislaine's horse was finding a steady pace
increasingly difficult.

Slowing a little to negotiate a hanging branch was l undoing, for
Ghislaine found her reins ripped from 1 frozen fingers and pulled hard
towards the black d trier. There was no sign of the other men.

Remembering her provocative attitude just mome before, Ghislaine paled.
Guy had clearly taken exo ticon to it and was planning to chastise her
here a now. She had not honestly believed he would lay a ha to her, for
he had often made that threat without e, following it up. But he had
seemed to be far angr than normal. Leaning forward, Ghislaine tried to
g' the reins back, but Guy's grip was too firm. As horses came to a
halt, she held her breath, watching husband dismount. Running did not
seem to b~ sensible option.

As his strong hands gripped her waist, she fin: found her voice.

"What do you plan to do?"

"You were warned, lady." The fierce look in his e' was not something she
could ignore. When her f finally sank into the mud, Ghislaine's eyes
searched the safety of his men. In vain.

"Now? Here?" For some reason she seemed unable utter any more and
watched in disbelief as he tied horses to a nearby branch and then
yanked her tow, the undergrowth. They stopped behind a large h thorn
clump.

Ghislaine was roughly turned towards him ; slammed into his hard chest.
It was difficult breath but she was determined that he would not see l~
alarmed she was.

"Do not forget that I am your wife, Guy de Cour she uttered with a
defiant gleam in her eye.

"I do not forget it for a moment, lady," Guy cut in sharply.

"But it would seem that you do."

Her mouth opened and then abruptly shut. Mayhap defiance was not the
answer either.

"Nay, I do not forget it," she replied quietly. Her head was level with
the middle of his chest and she closed her eyes as his hand slid under
her chin and forced her to look upwards.

"So you have no longing for~ the convent after all?" Guy's voice was
harsh and uncompromising.

"I did not say that exactly." Surprised at the question, her eyes
snapped open.

"I distinctly recall you regretting the pleasures of domestic life.

Was I wrong?" He shook her slightly and caused her to gasp. Her
continued silence wrought another shake.

"This marriage was not of our choosing and I have no wish to remain a
burden on anyone." Her decision to remain calm forgotten, Ghislaine's
eyes spat fire at him.

Guy watched her with narrowed eyes-as the cold wind blustered about
them.

"You have no vocation, that much I do know," he countered.

"You know no such thing," she retorted her lips tight. "In fact, you
know very little about me at all."

Guy continued to stare at her for a moment before the merest hint of a
smile broke his icy expression. "Then I shall put it to the test."

Before Ghislaine realised what was happening, Guy's lips had taken
possession of hers in a kiss that seemed to go on forever. The more she
resisted, the more insistent he became until finally her lips parted. As
his tongue explored the softness of her mouth, Ghislaine felt all
thoughts of resistance flutter away. As the kiss deepened, Ghislaine's
hands slid up his arms to tangle her fingers in his thick hair.

Guy's mouth became more demanding whilst his hand slid from her waist to
caress the full curves of her hips. Ghislaine gave herself up to such
unfamiliar, erotic sensations as his tongue began to move in a forbidden
rhythm that set her nerves dancing.

Startled by the strength of her 'response, Guy lifted his mouth from
hers and gazed down at her flushed face. Slowly he put her from him and
drew a steadying breath as Ghislaine's scattered senses returned.

In a daze of confusion, Ghislaine forced herself to~ focus her thoughts.

Shame roared through her as she realised just how willingly she had
yielded to him. Frantically she tried to think of something witty or
defiant to say, or anything at all, but no words formed in her mind. Her
cheeks burned hotly and she felt like a child who had just been taught a
lesson.

"Take your reins, Ghislaine. The men are waitibg back up the track."

Her eyes shot to his, but whatever her husband was thinking was masked
by a cool veneer of apparent indifference. It had meant nothing to him,
this kiss, after all.

Wordlessly Ghislaine turned to mount her horse.

The dark was swirling about them as the group finally entered the manor
gates. Guards scattered in all directions as Guy slid wearily from the
saddle and Ghislaine noted that there were more men in evidence than
usual.

Guy helped her from her palfrey and she warily placed her hands on his
shoulders. She need not have worried for Guy did not linger. He turned
on his heels and strode towards the hall issuing orders as he went.

"Sir Guy! Lady~ Ghislaine!" Sir Brian's loud voice carried across the
bailey, halting both mid-step. This was not his usual method of greeting
and the tone of his voice did not bode well.

"Is aught amiss, Sir Brian?" Ghislaine was pleased to hear her voice
sound confident.

The hapless knight looked drawn and pale in the flickering torchlight as
he stammered another greeting and bowed low before them. Grave news," he
began.

" D'Everard is badly wounded and I fear for his life."

Guy stared at him for a moment in disbelief before he turned back to
where Sir Brian was hovering.

"How did it happen?" His voice was toneless but Ghislaine was beginning
to realise that he always spoke this way when he wished to hide his
feelings.

"Only a short time ago, in the forest. D'Everard was searching for the
outlaws as you ordered when they were set upon. He has a bad wound in
the thigh."

"Was there any other damage?"

"One dead and two minor wounds. Three of the horses have cuts." Sir
Brian's hand gripped and un gripped his sword as he spoke.

"How many of them?"

The older man raked back his grey hair in imitation of the new lord.

"About twelve to our eight, Sir Guy. It was a surprise ambush, although
the guards say they were not soldiers. Like as not it was the outlaws."

There was not a sound in the bailey as Guy rubbed his chin with his
gauntlet.

"Where is d'everard?"

"In the hall."

Without a word, Guy turned quickly and headed towards the hall.
Ghislaine put her hand on Sir Brian's ar~m.

"Could you send Effie with my medicaments and get Edwin to fetch Hulda
from the village?"

Sir Brian nodded curtly and rushed off, grateful no doubt to be out of
Sir Guy's way.

Even before she had reached the hall, Ghislaine could hear Guy blasting
the men and she quickened her pace. They had no need of further injuries
as a result of his anger.

The two wounded men possessed bad sword gashes on their arms and legs
but Ghislaine quickly assessed their condition as. curable D'Everard was
a different matter. His tunic and chausses were soaked in blood and he
was very pale from loss of blood and exhaustion.

"How long has he been bleeding like this?" She addressed the question to
the man hovering about Sir Arnaud.

"Since he was hit, my lady." The soldier frowned as he attempted to
guess the time.

"Nigh on two notches of the candle. We brought him home as gently as we
could, but there was not much else we could do aside from removing his
chain mail. Your maid did what she could."

Silently he handed her an iron-tipped arrow. "He pulled it out himself.
The tip's missing, my lady." Casting a pitying glance at Arnaud, the
soldier shuffled to the far side of the hall.

It was far worse than she thought. Quickly Ghislaine directed a torch to
above Sir Arnaud's leg and eased away the blood-soaked pad. In his
muscular left thigh was a large, jagged hole that oozed blood.

Ghislaine had treated many such wounds before and was used to the sight
of blood, but it was the sight of her husband that moved her most. Their
eyes met as she assessed the extent of the damage. The arrow had torn
the flesh badly but she was not certain whether a piece of his chain
mail as well as the arrow tip was still within. If that was the case,
then infection would set in quickly and Sir Arnaud would not linger
long. Guy's face was white.

"Tell me the worst, lady."

Her eyes dropped to the wan face of his friend and decided honesty was
the best she could do.

"I do not yet know how bad he will be. If the fever sets in, there is no
telling whether he will pull through or not. I must clean the wound
properly first but it will be a day or two before we know." She stared
at her husband steadily. It would be no use promising life if she could
not save him. It was in the hands of the Lord.

"Whatever you need, lady, just ask. The man is like a brother to me."

The gruff hess in his voice was heart-rending but Ghislaine put all
tender feelings aside. Sympathy was not what he needed.

"I have sent for Hulda. She will save him if she can." Guy opened his
mouth as if to protest, but Sir Arnaud groaned most eloquently and he
took two steps back. Nodding gravely, he retreated to the back of the
hall, ushering out the rest of the men and sending for servants to
provide whatever she deemed necessary.

The arrow had indeed caused much damage and d'everard had lost a great
deal of blood. The man was weak and in poor shape to fight for his life;
Ghislaine decided he had best take a sleeping draught to gain some
strength.

First she set about forcing some poppy juice down his throat, and then,
when satisfied it had taken effect, she had him moved to a smaller
chamber

15LIZ. ABETH HEN SHALL

where Ghislaine could examine the wound more carefully.

Her fears were justified. The tip of the arrow was lodged deep within
although there was no sign of any chain mail. It was some time before
she was satisfied that the wound was clean and could heal safely.

Hulda, arriving soon after, was not hopeful of success. Every so often
the old woman would stare at Arnaud's face and shake her head gravely,
before examining the colour of the blood Still seeping from the wound.
Finally she placed a vile concoction of mallow, holly bark and elder
over the clean hole to reduce the swelling.

At last she sat back and looked at Ghislaine.

"The Norman is in God's hands now. There is no more I can do."

Ghislaine nodded as she took the pot of herbs from Hulda and searched
the man's face for any sign of improvement. D'Everard looked very grey
and ill.

Hours later, the fever took hold of him and Ghislaine truly feared for
his life.

Through the night and all the next day she changed his bandages and
forced various of Hulda's concoctions down his throat, but the heat from
his body would not abate. As his thrashing continued and delirium took
hold of his tongue, Ghislaine sent to the Abbey for a priest. No matter
how ungodly the man, she would not let him die un shriven

As the last rites were being said over his friend, Guy stared
impassively at the group but made no attempt to join them. He had
remained in the chamber the whole time but had not approached the
pallet, carefully heeding Ghislaine's warning about not disturbing
Arnaud. He had ordered fires, wall hangings and clean bed linen as
required. When the priest had finished, Guy quit the room.

Ghislaine watched him leave with a heavy heart. There was naught she
could do to ease his suffering but maybe capturing the men responsible
would go some way to help. She wished him luck.

"Lady Ghislaine, I have a message for you." The priest's reedy voice was
close in her ear and Ghislaine whirled round, somewhat flustered at
being caught watching her husband.

"Aye. There is a purse for the abbey, Father. I will send Effie for it."

Father Gregory was a small, thin man with a thin, foxy face that missed
nothing.

"My thanks, good sister. That'would be most appreciated." He hesitated a
moment and Ghislaine watched him dart a quick look around the room to
see if anyone was listening. She drew closer.

"I have a message. Father John wishes to speak to you concerning
Margaret Stave Icy He  ...  is most anxious to see you."

Arnaud's groan captured Ghislaine's attention. "Aye," she replied
distractedly.

"I'll come when I can? It was an odd request, but then priests were not
of the same world.

"Please take food and drink, Father."

She had the impression that the priest would have said more, but finally
nodded his thanks and disappeared into the kitchens.

Dismissing her fancies, Ghislaine hurried to Arnaud's side.

The fever finally broke the next morning, much to her relief. Had the
man died, there was no knowing how EL~Z^aet~ ~NS~^L~ her husband would
have taken the news. She sent silent thanks up to heaven and a messenger
to Guy. It was late in the afternoon when he finally returned and
d'everard had improved greatly.

His search for the bandits had proved fruitless so far, but he burst
through the chamber doors with a hopeful smile on his face.

The smile wavered when he witnessed how pale and ill his friend looked,
but he sat down-at his side none the less. D'Everard blinked up at him,
his eyes dull and sullen. He offered Guy a'clammy hand to clasp.

"So, d'everard. You go far to find a way to stay in bed." His blue eyes
looked suspiciously bright.

Arnaud managed a faint grimace and plucked at Guy's arm.

"If you need my services, best get' me some food. Your lady would starve
me on gruel."

Guy grinned up at Ghislaine as d'everard,sank back into exhausted
silence.

"My thanks, Ghislaine. Arnaud sounds almost. himself again."

The smile he turned on her was dazzling and she was quite flustered by
the sincerity she saw there.

"Thank me not, Sir Guy: It is merely my duty as lady of the house."

"None the less, you have watched over him tirelessly. Name whatever you
wish, lady."

Her smile began to fade. He had called her Ghislaine before, and she had
no wish to be paid for her services.

"There is no debt, husband," she replied stiffly. As She turned, her arm
was gripped tightly.

"I did not mean to offend you, girl My thanks are most heartfelt."

Ghislaine looked up into grave, blue eyes and her huffiness melted.

She nodded, disturbed somewhat by his closeness.

"Have you caught the outlaws?" They needed a distraction.

Guy sighed heavily. He looked very tired.

"Nay, not yet. But I will."

Ghislaine had no doubt that he meant it and that cold gleam' in his eye
did not bode well for the men he. finally caught.

"Go eat and sleep, my lord, or else I'll have two patients on my hands."
She Watched her husband glance at d'everard.

"If there is any change, I'll wake you myself," she assured calmly. As
she spoke, Ghislaine had placed one hand on his arm to add reassurance.

Guy placed his callused. hand over hers and patted it gently, almost as
if they had been married for years. "You are right," he grimaced.

"I'm bone tired and stink like the devil. We'll speak on the morrow,
Ghislaine." With a parting glance at d'everard, Guy left the room.

A good night's sleep had worked wonders for her patient and Guy had left
the manor with a mtich lighter heart that morning.

"So, my lady. Am I well enough now to eat like a man or must I persevere
with this.. ~slop?" Sir Arnaud's querulous tone brought a smile to
Ghislaine's lips.

Rising quietly from the embrasure where she had been watching the
forest, Ghislaine made her way to her patient's pallet.

"If you are well enough to grumble, I am sure that you are well enough
to eat something more substantial, Sir Arnaud." Bending over him, she
placed her hand on his forehead. It felt cool to touch, although she did
not like the grey tinge that lingered around his mouth.

Noticing her frown, Sir Arnaud sighed heavily, expecting Ghislaine to
change her mind.

"Hulda's gruel would be enough to make even your husband ill, lady.
Perhaps we ought to try a little meat, as an experiment?" His voice was
so plaintive and desperate that Ghislaine was not proof against it.

Raising her hands in defeat, Ghislaine smiled.

"So be it, my lord.

I'll send for a little chicken and bread."

Sir Arnaud tossed a surly look at her.

"Chicken and bread? I think you and that hard task-master of a husband
of yours have more in common than you think."

Ghislaine smiled broadly at the petulant tone.

"You may be sure that I am not about to waste days of care by 'allowing
you to eat yourself into death. Sir Guy would no doubt agree, were he
but here." Her expression was implacable.

Sir Arnaud flushed somewhat guiltily.

"Aye, that 'was most churlish of me. I am grateful for your care, lady."

"Think nothing of it, Sir Arnaud." Ghislaine rose to add some more
fragrant wood to the fire.

"I am well aware that my husband would be most disappointed were he to
find you dead. Since you have managed to consume a goodly part of his
wealth over the years, I am certain Guy de Courcy would view you as a
poor bargain."

A reluctant smile played on his lips.

"In truth, lady, it is not just myself who finds your domestic comforts
attractive." He raised his hands in mock defence as Ghislaine shot him a
withering glance.

"Guy has lost a little of that bad-tempered surliness you complained of.

See, lady! I warned you that with patience and a little comfort the man
could be changed."

Staring into the flames as she raked over the embers, Ghislaine thought
more of the man she had married.

He had been a loyal friend to Arnaud and he had shown her how much he
cared about him. Were he to feel the same about her some day!

"Maybe," she replied distractedly.

"I have seen him watch you as you tended-me; he looked much like a
jealous man, lady." Arnaud slid her a covert glance as he settled
himself comfortably against the bolster.

"Perhaps if you lavished more care on him he might respond more  ...  er
amicably?"

Ghislaine frowned, not at all certain that Guy wanted her attentions.

"Why do you tell me all this? I would have thought it would suit you far
better to have me sent to the convent so that you could return to the
old life." She jabbed the stick deep-into the fire.

"He is lonely and I think you do him good, Lady Ghislaine. Our
friendship runs in both directions." He looked over at her, his smile
gone.

"Try it, lady. You have nothing to lose."

The light was fading fast by the time that Guy returned from his outlaw
hunting. The cold, blustery wind of the day had turned bone-perishing
and Ghislaine had made sure that extra wood was burning in the grate.
She had also taken the trouble of ordering roast beef and Guy's
favourite sweet tart lets Whatever she had said to Arnaud d'everard,
Guy's story had played on her mind and touched a soft spot. deep within.
For some unfathomable reason she felt sympathy. It was her duty to try
to give him some comfort, she told herself.

Guy's face was etched with lines of tiredness and the , sullen
expression he wore told its own story. Ghislaine rose to greet him as he
enteied the hall.

Self-conscious that she had changed her gown and brushed her hair, her
hands twisted the edge of her cuff as he approached. He was not only
tired but very wet.

"Come, takeoff your cloak and rest by the fire to warm whilst I get you
some wine."

Guy looked as if he would say something but obviously changed' his mind.
An expressive grunt was the most he could manage before he threw himself
gratefully into the chair. Ghislaine carried away the discarded cloak
and brought him a goblet Of spiced wine.

"To what do I owe this?" he enquired with eyes closed as he stretched
his long legs before him.

"I had thought you might appreciate it. If I was wrong, you have only to
say," she replied stiffly. Had she really felt sympathy for this oaf?

Guy let out a low groan.

"I did not mean to offend you, Ghislaine.

This is . most welcome."

Thawing. a little, she nodded.

"I did not mean to be irritable either.

There is a bath in . our room if you want it."

She stood up only to be stopped by his hand on her wrist.

"Is aught wrong with Arnaud?" His eyes were grave and anxious. ' "Nay.
He is full of complaints. At this moment he is resting, but I am sure
that-he will be giving you a complete list of my crimes first thing in
the morning."

His answering grin was one Of relief, but he did not let go of her
wrist.

Instead he stood up.

"You have earned my deepest thanks, Ghislaine. I repeat that whatever
you wish will be yours."

He raised her hand to his lips and gently placed a kiss on her fingers.

"Well, there is one thing," she remembered hesitantly.

"Father John has asked to see me at the abbey and I would like to go."

Guy looked down at her, his eyes holding hers. For once his closeness
did not distress her nor make her uncomfortable.

"You have my word, if you promise to return the same day. My men will
accompany you to ensure your safety."

A soft glow lit deep within her as Ghislaine nodded her agreement.

Maybe Sir Arnaud had spoken some sense.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN.

FROM the dark recesses of the bedchamber Ghislaine sat watching the
sleeping form of her husband. The weak light of the dawn filtered
through the shutters but did not reach the bed. He had not moved since
he had collapsed on the bed the night before and she had not had the
heart to wake him. There was always room amongst the women servants and
Ghislaine had found a quiet pallet where she would not be disturbed by
the gossiping and snoring.

Normally she fell asleep immediately, but last night her mind had
continued to think about her husband.

Eventually she must have dozed for she was awakened by the clattering of
the women around her who were-rising to begin~ the chores. So that the
servants would not wake him, Ghislaine had laid the fire in the
bedchamber herself to ensure that the room would be less chilly when he
awoke She had also placed a pitcher of the ale he liked and a small,
freshly baked loaf of bread near the bed.

Pulling her knees to her chest, Ghislaine continued to stare at him.

The man did not even snore, she' realised suddenly and decided that he
would be far easier to sleep wittl than the women. A deep flush stole
across her cheeks at that daring thought and she was grateful that Guy
was not awake to witness it.

His dark hair was tousled in a boyish way and made the harsh planes of
Guy's face much softer. Long, dark lashes fanned his cheeks and his lips
looked very gentle in the firelight. She wondered what he would have
looked like as a boy and decided he would probably have been rather
endearing. Maybe, as Arnaud had suggested, it was the harsh treatment he
had received that had made him the man he was. Yet he did have a softer
side and he had shown it to her on occasions. Guiltily, Ghislaine
remembered how badly she had behaved towards him when he did try to show
some consideration towards her.

Resolving to act with more grace, Ghislaine uncurled her cold, stiff
limbs and moved closer to the fire.

Mesmerised by the dancing flames, she sat back in the seat and let the
warmth seep through her body. At length her mind began to slow down
until sleep finally claimed her.

A sharp crack from a log on the fire made Ghislaine shoot up in
surprise.

The shock had numbed her brain for it took a minute to realise where she
was or what she was doing there. The light' was much brighter and
Ghislaine surmised that she had been asleep for at least a candle notch.
Looking quickly over in the direction of her husband, she was taken
aback to see him sitting up and staring at her, a frown creasing his
forehead. "Good morning," she offered.

"Did you sleep there all night?" he demanded, the frown deepening to a
scowl.

Ghislaine rose as gracefully as her stiff legs would allow. He was
always grouchy in the morning. Smiling pleasantly, she shook her head.

"I slept with the other women. You were so tired that I would not wake
you."

"Most thoughtful, lady." If anything the scowl had grown blacker.

Growing uncomfortable with the increasing tension, Ghislaine decided
perhaps honesty would clear the air. "Have I done aught to displease
you? If that is the case, please tell me so that I can rectify the
problem. I do not wish to worry about your scowls all day."

"I did not think you worried about my scowls," Guy countered.

"At times they have been justified," she allowed, 'but ! can think of no
reason this morning."

"You have a dear conscience then?" His eyes regarded her suspiciously.

Ghislaine stared at him, her mouth agape. His arrogance knew no bounds.

Resolutions forgotten, she advanced on him with a fierce gleam in her
eyes.

"If I were a man, Guy de Courcy, I would run you through. As I am not, I
shall have to resort to other means. It grieves me to think that I laid
the fire and brought you some ale and bread. My wits must certainly have
gone a-wandering if I thought you might be grateful for a little care."

Angrily, she turned on her heels and stormed towards the door, but just
as her-hand touched the latch his voice reached across the room.

"I am grateful for your care."

Her fingers stilled mid-air~ "You do not sound very grateful;' she
responded dryly.

"Then come back here and let me try again." His voice ~as no longer
harsh, but soft and compelling.

Sir Arnaud's words echoed in her mind and Ghislaine sighed heavily.

Why did She want to believe what he said? She, turned slowly.

"If you shout at me' once more or give me another black look, I will
leave," she muttered.

Guy nodded curtly.

"Perhaps you could warn me when my looks start to get too offensive?"

That little play on words caused the barest twitch of her lips as she
sat down gingerly at the foot of the bed.

"Rest assured, Sir Guy, I will inform you."

"I prefer it when you call me Guy." Ghislaine inclined her head.

"Very well."

There was a-momentary pause when' neither of them seemed to know what to
say, and Ghislaine was finding her proximity to the man rather
nerve-racking. She was determined to sound as casual as she couldi

"Perhaps you w/)uld explain why you were so angry with me."

Guy looked at her with a wry smile on his lips.

"I remembered nothing after I fell on the bed last night other than you
had been insisting I ate and bathed. It ...  er  ...  bothered me that
had you stayed here, I knew naught about it," Guy shifted uncomfortably.

"I  ...  er ...  wondered why you had looked after me so well." He had
the grace to blush under her curious gaze.

"But I did little."

"Aye. Well, that is the reason," he replied gruffly.

"My apologies if I upset you."

"You are very easy to please," she teased gently, Reaching for the ale,
Ghislaine poured a small amount into the silver goblet and handed it to
him.

Guy eyed the goblet with an odd expression on his face, "Didyou brew
this yourself, lady?"

Ghislaine could have sworn that his voice was laden with suspicion, but
that was too far-fetched.

"Aye. A good batch, I am given to believe."

"You have not tried it yourself?."

What was wrong with the man? 'if you do not want the ale, Sir Guy, you
have only to say."

Guy frowned at the stiff tone of her voice.

"Nay.

"Tis not that," he added quickly.

"I have a definite preference for ale brewed by you."

So saying, he closed his eyes and tossed back the ale in one.

"My thanks for the compliment, Sirer  ...  Guy." Why-did she feel so
tongue-tied and awkward?

"I shall remember it," Guy was still staring at the goblet, sniffing
tentatively at the residual aroma.

"Do you wish for more?"

Finally he looked up at her and smiled his boyish smile.

"Not at the moment, but I admit that a man could set used to this
personal attention."

That brought a flush to her cheeks.

"If you continue to be so charming, I might be persuaded to try more
often."

Guy leaned forward so that she could smell the lavender he had used in
the bath. The. sheets slipped and she realised that he was naked beneath
it.

The squire must have undressed him after she had left.

His finger touched her cheek lightly and he smiled into her eyes.

"And what sort of persuasion would it take, lady; to stop you from going
to the abbey?"

It was not just the question that caused the heat to flood through her
body.

His face was close to hers and she could see the stubble on his chin and
the softness of his lips. The other hand had wandered to her braid and
wasgenlly pulling it towards him.

Ghislaine knew he was going to kiss her but she could think of no good
reason to stop him. Slowly, so slowly he lowered his mouth to hers, but
she did not pull away. His lips were soft and sensuous, caressing hers
gently and without demands. It was over before she could respond.

"Why should I not go to the abbey?" she breathed, her eyes watching his
lips.

His fingers slipped down to her arms and pulled her towards him once
more.

The blue eyes were turning darker as he kissed her with more force.

',I told you. You have no vocation," came the rasping reply.

Ghislaine tried to make sense of his words whilst her wits were
scattered far and wide by the sensations swirling within her.

Whatever his kisses contained, they had a seriously debilitating effect
on her.

"What? Nay," she murmured breathlessly.

"You~ misunderstand. I received a message to visit one of the priests
there, no more."

Watching the look of relief on his face, her mind began to act.

Placing her hands on his chest, she pushed him back and gave him a look
of much displeasure. So this, was just a ruse to keep her here, His
hands snaked back around her arms again and he looked at her almost
fiercely.

"So you do not stay there, then7 This was no plan to escape?"

"Nay, it was not. I would not do anything so fainthearted, When I leave
for the convent, I will tell' you

His fingers relaxed their tight grip on her a little but did not let her
go, "What message did' you receive?" His voice was suspicious.

Ghislaine shrugged.

"It was from Father John. He wished to talk to me about Margaret
Stavelay.

There is naught odd about it," she continued as she saw his frown.

"He would often stay with her. Margaret was most devout."

Guy thought for a few minutes and then sighed heavily.

"It seems I must apologise once again, lady. I admit to thinking it
merely a cover for an assignment with your lovei'."

Ghislaine stared at him aghast.

"My lover?" she 'repeated.

"Who is my lover?"

Guy gave her a withering look.

"Walter de Belleme; lady. Do not play games with me."

Ghislaine folded her hands. across her chest.

"So that was why you behaved so jealously in Chester?" she demanded
crossly.

"You thought he was my lover."

"You deny it?"

"Aye."

"Then why were you talking to him 'for so long, looking at him just so,
smiling?" His lips were set tight in an angry line and he imitated
Ghislaine by folding his arms across his chest.

Ghislaine hesitated and lowered her eyes. Now was the time to tell him.

"When he was here last," she began slowly, her fingers pulling at the
sheet nervously, 'he told me he had a plan to--" ~ "What plan?" Guy
broke in.

"Why did you not tell me afore this?"

"If you interrupt me again, I will not explain." Two bright Spots of red
burned on her cheeks and Ghislaine closed her lips tightly.

Guy gave a. snort of disgust and fell back onto the bolster in
frustration.

"Go on," he murmured through gritted teeth.

"I Shah endcavour to keep my tongue and my hands in check."

Ghislaine raised an eyebrow at the threat, but she trusted him to keep
it.

"He planned for you to have an accident."

"So he would marry you and inherit not only youc land but mine too.

The Earl has not been slow to tell his knights of the details in our
marriage contract," he finished bitterly.

She frowned at this further interruption but nodded. "Aye, I believed
that his plan stemmed more from greed than for a desire to marry me."

She gave a rueful, self-deprecating smile.

"I could not agree to it, but I had to find out what the plan was so
that I could warn you."

"And were you successful?" There was a disbelieving tone in his' voice
that Ghislaine did not like.

She shrugged her shoulders and shook her head.

"He only said that he would arrange for a riding accident or an ambush,
but not yet."

"Why did you wait until now to tell me?" Guy's eyes had turned flinty
blue and she found it hard to look at him. Shamed by her lacl~ of
courage, Ghislaine turned her head away.

"You were so angry, you would not listen. I did try, but then Sit Arnaud
' Her voice trailed off.

"I am sorry," she whispered, "And why were you not tempted to be rid of
me?

It would seem that de Belleme was offering you a simple escape."

Ghislaine looked at him sharply.

"I have no wish to see you dead. You may be a bad-tempered, ignorant oaf
at times, but that is not deserving of death."

"And why should I believe that?" His voice' was gruff and the expression
on his face unreadable.

"It seemed sensible at the time," she retorted waspishly "My wits must
have left me."

Guy smiled at her hurry expression. He reached a hand out to gently
brush back an errant curl and Ghislaine did not move back.

"And how might you prove to me that you mean what you say?"

"I  ...  I have no idea."

The soft smile returned to his lips and Ghislaine found her eyes drawn
to them once again. His fingers had trailed gently down her arm and were
tracing circles on the sensitive part of her palm. Confused by his
actions, she looked up into his darkening eyes. "Come here, wife."

A curious lethargy had taken hold of her body and Ghislaine knew she
should move right away from Guy de Courcy. But she did what he had
commanded without even realising it.

Hesitantly, she placed her hand in his and found the warmth there oddly
reassuring. His fingers pulled her gently down to him so that she lay
alongside his body, her lips practically touching his. There was nothing
gentle about his kisses this time.

His hard body rolled half across her so that their legs became tangled
amongst the sheets. For a brief moment Guy hesitated, drinking in her
flushed cheeks and huge' brown eyes that seemed suddenly so child-like.
And then she raised her fingers to his face, gently tracing the outline
of his lips. That was his undoing. With a soft groan Guy dosed his eyes
and pulled her tight against him so that she could feel every inch of
his body. How much he desired her.

The knowledge filled her with a feeling of elation, of power, and
something else she was not sure of.

When his mouth covered hers, Ghislaine responded instinctively. Her lips
parted and her tongue tentatively touched his. As their kiss deepened,
his hands glided over her body possessively. His touch felt so good, so
deliciously exciting that she no longer wanted to think at all. She felt
herself falling slowly into a whirling sensation of sensuality and
awakening passion that she was powerless to stop. Did not want to stop.

In some distant part of her mind, she felt his hands fumble with the
front of her gown and then the shock of his lips on the delicate skin.
His hands rose to gently-cup her breasts and Ghislaine gave a gasp of
delight. When at last Guy lifted his mouth from hers, his breathing was
harsh and rapid and he looked as it he wanted to devour her.

As he gazed down at her white skin and soft rounded breasts, Guy placed
a finger under her chin and lifted her face to look at him.

His eyes were smouldering with desire.

"I want you, Ghislaine," he whispered.

Her fingers gently touched his face and pushed back the locks of black
hairs.

Slowly her hand crept around the back of his neck and pulled him back to
her again. It was all the answer he needed.

The urgent banging at the door shocked them into a tense stillness.

Guy lifted himself, his body alert.

When the banging came again, Guy was already on his feet, pulling on his
braies.

"News of the outlaws, Sir Guy. Edwin is outside and would have words
with you."

"A moment," he answered as the tunic went over his head. Turning back to
the bed, Guy bent over Ghislaine who was still dazed and c~mfused.

His features were no longer soft and lover-like but harsh and
implacable.

"We will speak when I get back, Ghislaine."

She watched him stride through the door without a backward glance, her
mind in a whirl and her body still yearning for his touch.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN.

TH pounds abbey lay but a short ride to the south of the forest and
Ghislaine was heartily glad of the fresh air and the chance to think.

Arnaud was recovering. well and she had left him to Effie's enthusiastic
care.

Surrounded by six guards, Ghislaine felt embarrassingly overprotected
but Sir Guy had insisted. She had no wish to argue with him. As-they
made their way through the valley, she kept thinking about her husband.
Nay, that was' not right: She wanted to put him from her mind
completely, but memories of his face, his voice, his frown kept crowding
in, Finally, she simply gave up trying2 It was most odd that he had
thought her likely to escape to the abbey: Stranger still that. he had
not wanted her ~to go, There was no good reason for that either, at
least, none that he had given.

"Her lack of vocation would not normally be a b0rrier for a husband
wishing to rid himself of his wife. ' Other, 'more erotica memories kept
dancing through her mind causing her to blush suddenly. Noneof the
guards seemed to have noticed this unfortunate affliction, however, but
none the less she kept darting covert glances at the men nearest her.

Perhaps, she decided restlessly, time spent with the priest would douse
the fire that seemed to burn within her Still.

She ought to have been grateful for the timely 209 ~ interruption, but
what she had felt was cheated. It was so good lying with him, touching
him, kissing his soft skin, being caressed. Her control had long gone
and he knew it. She would have done whatever he had wanted her to,
willingly: He had made a wanton of her and it hadn't mattered.

But what then? He had always insisted he did not want marriage to her.
It was his freedom he wanted. A gawky wanton was not part of his plans.
Would she then have gone to the convent willingly? And if there were a
child? A wry smile played around her lips at that thought. What a
monster they would produce between them! No, she could never give up his
child.

As the abbey gates came into view, Ghislaine resolved to put all
thoughts of Guy de Courcy from her mind and concentrate on pure love.

But it was hard.

The guards remained outside as the young nun at the gate led her across
the muddy courtyard; The abbess's rooms were located beneath the low
stone arches at the far side, next to the. heavy oak doors of the
chlpel. Ghislaine waited outside, as, bidden, watching the peaceful
lives of the nuns trickle by. It was curious that the faces of those
women seemed remarkably smooth and unlined, as,if, by missing the great
joys and sorrows of womanhood, time did not leave its mark. Was that
what she wanted? To be untouched by life?

"Lady Ghislaine, please enter." The abbess's stern face was full of
foreboding, and Ghislaine followed the tiny, thin figure into her room.
The cold seemed to echo around the stone floor and walls and then seep
into her very bones. There was but a meagre fire ,in the large grate
that seemed to Ghislaine to have no effect at all. She shivered.

Ghislaine sat on ~he simple wooden stool offered by the abbess.

Declining a goblet of wine, Ghislaine pulled her cloak closer.

"Father John sent a message to you. Is that the reason for your visit?"
Her voice was surprisingly low, but Ghislaine detected the tension in
it.

"Aye," she replied.

"He wished to speak to me of Margaret Stave Icy I believe."

"That is so, but I must ask first if your husband is close by?" The
round, grey eyes of the older woman watched her steadily.

It was an odd question.

"Nay, He is searching for the outlaws in the forest."

"Good. You will understand in a minute, Lady Ghislaine." For the first
time, a thin smile banished her joyless expression.

"Father John." Her voice was raised no more than a 'fraction, but a
heavy curtain to the right of the fire stirred.

"Come, come," she urged the tall, nervous figure' who emerged to step
closer towards Ghislaine.

Father John gave the abbess a quick nod which was the signal for her to
leave the room. Once alone, he turned to Ghislaine. He was not so old as
she had at first thought. Thin brown hair blossomed out from his tonsure
and covered a broad forehead. He had a boyish air, although she reckoned
him to be in his late thirties. Myopic brown eyes peered down at her.

"I am most anxious to restore the peace to my soul" Lady Ghislaine, but
the information I must give you to do so could be dangerous for us both.

Margaret Staveley always spoke highly of you, of her regard for your
friendship, so I place my trust in you." His voice was high, nervous,
and the words delivered in a staccato fashion that was at odds with the
normally quiet, slow pace of the priests.

Ghislaine inclined her head, not quite understanding what he meant. He
must have sensed her confusion.

"I was present when she was murdered."

Ghislaine paled at his words, a wave of ice cold flooding through her
body.

"Why'are you telling me?" she demanded in fi fierce whisper.

"You must know the name of my husband and why he demands protection from
the Earl."

"I do, but I also know that the marriage was forced upon you. You did
not choose to do so. Your first loyalty is to God. Am I right?" He
watched her with nervous eyes.

"Aye. But I must firsts tell you that I believe him to be innocent of
the crim~ Ghislaine rubbed her freezing hands together to warm them a
little, her eyes not leaving the man pacing backwards and forwards
before her. She took as hallow breath at his continued silence." Do you
know who killed Margaret?" Her wavering voice betrayed the tension that
was building deep within.

"Yes  ...  and no." The priest's eyes darted about the room as if he
feared attack at any moment.

"I do not understand," she replied.

"Did you not recognize who~ murdered her?"

"I did not see him, Lady Ghislaine. I was hidden behind an arras in an
alcove. It was his voice I heard."

"You heard what happened? You survived?" she breathed.

"Aye," came the bitter reply.

"And I never wish to hear such sounds again. My faith  ...  has been
sorely tried these last few weeks." He stopped before the fire to watch
the tiny flames.

"In the end, God prevailed 'over my fear."

He turned to face her, a weary, haggard expression on his face.

"But I need your help."

"My help? How?" Ghislaine stared at him, Father John looked at her
unblinkingly. "Your hus-bartd is accused of the murder. If I heard his
voice, I would be able to recognise it," A cold hand seemed to squeeze
her hearl She had wanted to believe his protests of innocence and now
she was being given the chance to put it to the test and clear his name.
Or prove him guilty.

"I will do what I can, Father. My husband wishes to clear his name and I
am certain, despite his  ...  violent profession, he would not kill an
innocent woman for refusing him marriage? And if he ~was found innocenl
he would have no further use for her. She lifted her chin.

"I am certain you will have no cause for alarm."

The man looked rather doubtful but smiled hesitantly. "Your husband is
not known for his gentle nature, Lady Ghislaine,-and after what heard,
you must understand my hesitation

Ghislaine returned his smile, but it did not reach' her eyes.

"Aye2 I understand. Surely, though, it would be better if Sir Guy did
not know the reason for your presence. There are some amongst us who
would be grateful for your advice, although I idoubt my husband is one
of them."

Father John nodded 'his head.

"As you wish, Lady Ghislaine."

He lapsed into sil6nce, his thoughts elsewhere.

"What did you hear?" She had to know what had taken place~ to know what
Guy was accused of.

Closing his eyes as if picturing what had happened, the priest sighed
wearily.

"I had been preparing to pray with Lady Margaret in a small chamber off
the hall. It is hidden from view by a heavy curtain to ensure privacy.
She preferred to pray without an audience," he added softly.

"As a truly good woman would."

"Strange, loud noises caught my attention as I prayed, and I went to the
curtain, Lady Margaret was shouting. She was very angry."

"What did she shout?" demanded Ghislaine.

The priest*raised'his hands in a despairing gesture.

"I could not hear everything~ you understand but she told him he was a
despicable man, a' murderer, a betrayer whose life depended on the
misfortunes of others."

Ghislaine blenched at the words and her fingers rose to her throat.

Could Guy have lied to her? Aye, he could. Very easily, came the voice
in her head. The man killed for his living: Lying well must be a bonus
in his profession.

"Was there aught else?" she asked quietly. Surely this could not be the
man who had threatened her loudly on several occasions with a beating
but had never carried any out, despite severe provocation?

She could not believe it was, no matter how damning the evidence.

"When Lady Margaret repeatedly refused' his offers, he threatened to
kill her. Even then. i." His voice trailed Oft. The priest turned to the
window and stared up at the sky as if exhorting God to give him
strength.

"Even then  ...  I did not go to her aid. I cannot forgive myself for
being such a coward. She needed me and I stayed behind the curtain."

Ghislaine stared at his shuddering back, hearing his agony but unable to
help him; "She wodld not have wanted your death, Father John.

Margaret would have called for you had she thought you might have been
able to help." The words sounded empty and trite to her own ears.

He raised his hand to stop her words.

"This is between me and' God now, Lady Ghislaine.. The only way I can
help her now is to name her murderer. Although  ...  it was not at his
hands that she died."

Ghislaine raised her head to look at him, "How did she die?" She waited
as the man gained control of his voice, dreading his words.

"She jumped from the window to her own death," he whispered.

"The others were killed by the knife," he added with a shudder.

"They knew what they were doing. None survived. When they had gone, all
l found was blood, bodies and a mess. They had taken the silver, her
jewels even the gold and pearl cross from around Margaret's neck had
gone."

The priest turned towards her, his face white and old in the light.

'1 could not tell them she died by her own hand. She did not deserve
that.

I wished her to be buried like a good, honest woman, in the churchyard
next to Sir Peter."

Ghislaine rose from the stool and stood before him. "Thank you, Father
John: You are a kind man."

Their eyes held for a moment before he looked away and Ghislaine saw
there the torment and the agony that the man was suffering.

"If you are ready, we should go now."

When they eventually rode back across the moat, they were greeted by
confusion. Carts and unknown men littered the bailey. A wild profusion
of colours, provisions and tongues assaulted their eyes and ears. Kalim
and Joachim had arrived.

The priest's nerves had increased with every step that took them closer
to Chapmonswiche and now that they had arrived, the man jumped at the
slightest noise. The fact that Guy had not yet returned did little to
relieve the escalating tension in his mind. Seeing his trembling hands
and the anxiety in his face, Ghislaine dismounted and showed him the way
to the private chapel. As far as she knew, she had been the only visitor
there for some time. Father John retired gratefully to his gloomy
seclusion. Food and drink would be sent to him as soon as she saw the
kitchen staff.

When Ghislaine entered the hall, she found Kalim and Arnaud sitting
comfortably before the fire, sipping some of the wine that had just
arrived.

A small chest lay next to Kalim's feet.

"My lady." He rose gracefully and took her hand.

"I am most pleased to see you in good health."

Ghislaine smiled warmly.

"My thanks, Kalim. I was not aware that you would be bringing our
supplies personally."

The old man held her questioning eyes for a moment and then looked
around the hall.

"I have much to discuss with your husband." His cold hand squeezed hers
gently.

"Perhaps you would sit with me awhile, if you have the time?"

Something in his eyes warned her that this was not going to be as casual
as it sounded.

"Gladly," she responded quietly. Kalim pulled a chair for her next to
his and handed her the wine when she had made herself comfortable.

"I shall make-myself useful in the bailey," Sir Arnaud began tactfully
as he pulled himself to his feet.

"But before you say aught, Lady Ghislaine, I am not about to undo your
good care. Rest easy." The merry grey eyes twinkled down at her.

As Sir Arnaud was not noted for his love of hard work, Ghislaine smiled
her agreement.

"Be sure to return to The fire the moment you are fatigued," she replied
sternly. Her eyes followed him as he limped heavily from the hall.

"Sir Arnaud has been most impressed by your healing skills, Lady
Ghislaine.

I am interested in how you acquired them." That was not what he was here
to discuss at all, but he wished to do so and Ghislaine complied. Her
mind was racing on ahead to the moment when Father John heard Guy's
voice. To the moment when Guy realised he had no need of her.

"If you twist the belt much more, Lady Ghislaine, it will fall to
pieces."

Ghislaine looked up at him, startled and then down at her own fingers.
She had not been listenis~g. Flushing with shame at her lack of manners,
she began to apologise.

Kalim held up his hands.

"You haye many concerns at the moment and have no need to explain." The
old man's nut brown face creased into a smile.

"I have a gift for you." Bending down to open the chest, Kalim gently
took out a small pot.

"My tisane?" he announced gravely.

"It will help your nerves."

"I think I will need more than a tisane, Kalim. But your gift is very
kind."

Kalim nodded slowly.

"Then perhaps the information I have will assist in some small way."

"What information?" Ghislaine's interest was piqued.

"About Walter de Belleme." He took a long draught of the wine before
taking a sidelong glance at her.

"He has been frequenting the harbour more and more of late, recruiting
the scum of the waterfront to his employment."

Ghislaine did not really know why that was so important, but hesitated
to say so.

"It is also well-known that he has been borrowing money in the
expectation of receiving a large sum shortly."

That caught her attention.

"How do you know all this?" she asked, a frown creasing her smooth brow.

Kalim shrugged.

"I have my sources and they are always reliable," A welter of thoughts
collided 'around 'her mind at once. Walter must be planning the attack
soon, but why should he be expecting mon~y? If he was going to marry
her, then he would not receive any lage dowry.

That was well-known. Unless. A thought suddenly struck her. Guy had said
something odd about the Earl not being slow to tell all his knights
about their marriage contract. At the time she had ignored itc but
perhaps there was something most significant in it.

"I know he plans to ambush my husband," she began slowly, 'and I have
warned Guy. But as for the money, l know nothing about that."

Kalim continued to stare at the fire.

"He is a man who loves only himself," he said eventually.

"The greed in his heart shines in his eyes."

"Whereas it is the anger in my husband's heart that shines in his eyes,"
she added quietly. Ghislaine looked up at Kalim, her eyes mirroring her
worry.

"Arnaud told me much of Guy's life and how wary he is of women." For a
moment she watched her fingers fiddle with her belt.

"I

have found that I have grown to care for him, despite his temper land'
his oafish ways," she admitted.

"But it is very hard to show him when I doubt he is concerned at all."

Kalim watched her clenched jaw and tightened lips, knowing how hard it
had been for her to admit to such feelings.

"Perhaps it would interest you to know that Guy is not' completely lost
to feeling," he said thoughtfully. "I i have heard him say he knows
nothing of his family, but he still gets information about his brothers
in Normandy," "He does?" she questioned. , Kalim nodded his head.

"He usually buys it from one of the Captains on the trading ships at the
harbour. At a price, of course." ~ For some reason, that piece of
information cheereld her up. So. he had been trading information with
the captain of the Isabella about his brothers. The thought of h! m
paying for the information made her smile: "He said he never thought of
them," she murmured.

"It is. hard for Guy de Courcy to admit to caring for anyone, but he is
just a man."

Ghislaine,raised her eyebrows' in wry disbelief at that 'statement:
'"Just a man, she repeated in a '~oice loaded with sarcasm, 'does not
tip ply to my husband."

Kalim laughed, his white teeth flashing in the firelight; "You are
wrong~ Lady Ghislaine. I have no doubt that should you wish to put it to
the test, he will not be proof against your pretty smile and a warm
welcome~' - Ghislaine felt the blush steal over her cheeks.

Did she wish to put it to the test?

* * The pale sun was low in the sky before Guy's arrival home was
announced in a flurry of movement and excited calls. The trestle tables
were already laid in preparation for the feast Ghislaine had ordered.

A cow had been killed in honour of their guest' and a fat pig was
roasting on the spit. Several mouthwatering pies and pasties, chicken
boiled in wine and mushrooms and' pike served with galentyne sauce were
being enthusiastically prepared in the kitchens. Sweet cheese tarts and
coloured custards were kept for dessert. Elfrieda had excelled herself
and Ghislaine wondered greatly at her cooperation.

Whenever a feast had been ordered in the past, Elfrieda's temper was
predictably explosive. Now, not 'even Joachim's inexplicable presence in
the kitchen appeared to upset her. She decided to think on the matter
later.

Effie had 'brushed Ghislaine's long hair until it. shone like coppered
blonde. Despite her drab green gown, Ghislaine's eyes told her that she
looked much better than usual. Perhaps she was growing up?

Guy strode through the door of the hall, a broad grin on his face.

"My lady. Good news indeed." His smile was infectious. ' "You have found
them?" she guessed excitedly, his good humour lightening her heart.

"Aye, we did. No small thanks to your man, Edwin." As all eyes turned to
the tall figure behind Guy, Ghislaine watched as a slow smile began to
form on the Englishman's face. Guy clapped his large hand on Edwin's
shoulder and shouted for ale.

"A good day's work. It pleases me greatly to see you anticipated our
success," he noted with an amused smile on his face. The grin broadened
as Ghislaine blushed in embarrassment.

"I  ...  er  ...  Kalim has arrived with the supplies and the cloth, my
lord.

We . thought you would appreciate a . celebration."

Guy gave her another crooked grin and then, to her complete shock. he
pulled her close and kissed her full on the lips.

"My lord," she gasped, as soon as he let her go, 'what are you thinking
of?"

"What I have been thinking of all day," he whispered into-her ear,
before giving her a playful peck on her burning cheeks~ Ghislaine looked
around quickly~ relieved to see that no one else seemed to have heard.
The fire within was ignited.

The night was spent celebrating the capture of Thomas Bollyngton and
four of his men. with each knight giving their own competing account of
their bravado and skill. There was much laughter and good-natured
pulling of legs as each tried to outdo the other.

Guy was like . a different man. The frown was banished for the moment
and Ghislaine was able to see him for what he was. Young, handsome,
strong and brave." He was also astute and the men respected him. Not
perhaps very god-fearing  ...  her thoughts suddenly flew to Father
John.

She had not seen him since she had slipped into the chapel earlier to
tell him that Guy had arrive He had declined her invitation to eat with
them, saying that his presence might not be too welcome this evening.

Deciding to see him in the morning, Ghislaine slipped away from the
feast.

Guy was deep in conversation with Kalim and the rest of the men were
doing their best to exhaust their new supplies. She had ordered Effie to
pack the beautiful material away in a lined chest, since she was sure
that Guy would send it back when his wits returned.

The fire was burning brightly when she entered the bedchamber. Below,
she could hear the shouts and raucous laughter of the men. Guy had not
spared her a glance as she left, and her heart was heavy with
disappointment.

Slumping down on the stool before the fire, Ghislaine slowly unbraided
her hair and. began to comb it carefully, her thoughts lost with the
flames.

The door latch clicked back firmly into place and Ghislaine whirled
round.

"Escaping, lady?" Guy leaned back against the door, his eyebrows raised
in question. His hands remained behind his back.

"Not at all, my lord."

Guy," he supplied gently.

Her heart began racing. His voice was soft and compelling: "Guy," she
repeated nervously as he sauntered' towards her stool.

"I

thought you wished to celebrate with your men."

"I had other plans for this night, Ghislaine."

She gulped hard as his hand reached to take the comb from her hand.

Gently he pulled her to her feet.

"Kalim's arrival was most timely, though?

"It was?" Her voice was almost inaudible.

"He bought me a special order. For you." He held out a small parcel.

Ghislaine looked at him as if he were mad and then nervously set about
unwrapping the girl.

"They are beautiful," she whispered, as she held up ELIZ^BET~ HENS~^~. ~

the. delicate linen for inspection. Two of the loveliest chemises she
had ever seen. They were made of the softest linen and embroidered with
exquisite patterns. A deep blush flooded her from top to toe. He had
paid someone to make them for her.

"I had thought," he whispered back huskily, 'that you would wish to
express your gratitude more fully."

Her eyes raised slowly to his and saw the leap of desire there. Her
finger pushed back an errant lock of his hair. She smiled.

"What had you in mind?" Ghislaine peeped up at him coyly.

"A kiss~ perhaps?"

Standing on tiptoes, Ghislaine gave him a gentle peck on the cheek.

"Like this?"

"That would be most, ..worthy had I given you a ...  horse comb," came
the dry retort.

"I see," she replied, ~atching her lower lip between her teeth. A frown
completed her puzzled expression: "Perhaps you could give me a hint as
to the worth of these chemises then, Sir Guy?"

His lips twitched with amusement before claiming hers in a soft kiss
that completely took her breath away. Ghislaine stepped back, her chest
still rising quickly.

"That was most clear." She smiled up at him, drowning in the desire she
saw there.

"But I really believe that I would find it  ...  easier to express my
thanks if there was perhaps less light."

The spots of red on her cheeks were proof enough of her shyness and they
tempered Guy~s growing impatience a little. With a heavy sigh, he doused
the wall sconces so that the only light came from the fire.

Standing before him, watching his face glow in the flickering light,
Ghislaine gave him the answer she knew he was waiting for.

Slowly her fingers pulled at the ties at the neck ~of her gown until
they came free.

Unable to tear her gaze from his, Ghislaine watched as Guy's fingers
reached out to touch her unbraided hair.

"Have I told you how lovely you are, Ghislaine?" he whispered fiercely,
pulling her gently towards him.

She shook her head, denying the thought as well as the words.

"You have called me many things over the last few weeks, most of them
less than flattering," she teased gently.

This time it was Guy's cheeks that flushed.

"Each one well deserved, no doubt," he countered grimly.

"Have I also told you that you are a most troublesome baggage?"

Ghislaine laughed at the ominous frown.

"I think I feel less nervous when you scowl at me."

The frown deepened as his fingers lifted her chin so that her eyes
looked into his.

"You are nervous?" he asked uncertainly.

"He could 'feel her trembling and did not need the slight nod she gave
to tell him she was very nervous. His finger slid over her cheek in the
briefest 'of Caresses before lowering to catch 'her hand and place it
palm down on his chest.

Ghislaine could fe$1 his heart hammering beneath his touch. He had shown
her what he found so hard to tell her. Did she really have that effect
on him?

Sliding her hands slowly around his neck, she pulled his lips down to
hers and kissed him as gently as he had done to her.

As she watched him breathlessly, her cheeks flushed, Guy stood back to
remove his tunic and chemise. At the sight of his sun-darkened chest,
Ghislaine's throat contracted.

He was so beautiful, she just wanted to reach out and run her fingers
over his soft skin. Hesitantly, Ghislaine placed her palm over his heart
once again and she felt it race at her touch. Had she made him do that?
At her look of surprise, Guy took her other hand and placed that one on
his chest too. When his arms encircled her, pulling her body flat
against his, and his lips touched hers, Ghislaine stopped thinking.

His mouth did not stop at hers. It trailed gently over a soft cheek to
just~ below her ear, nuzzling wickedly at the tender skin beyond.

Strange feelings she had never known shot through her body, causing it
to arch against his. Her skin prickled, with the velvet roughness of his
tongue as it circled upwards towards the nape of her neck.

Unable to bear the sensuality, her head fell back, thrusting her breasts
into his chest. His lips moved to the Creamy skin exposed just above her
breasts.

A gasp of delight escaped from Ghislaine at suchsinful behaviour.

Just as she thought her knees would give way ut~der this assault, his
mouth returned to hers for a scorching kiss that ignited the fire within
her. This kiss was completely different from any others. It was full of
passion and longing, but there was tenderness and reassurance there too.
~ He wanted her tonight. And she wanted him.

Guy's hands moved up and down her body possessively sliding over her
hips, pulling her deeper into him. showing her how much he desired her.
Ghislaine felt herself slipping into the unknown world of passion,
surrenderihg her aching body to the touch of his hands.

It was not until she felt the cool air on her breasts that Ghislaine
realised that her gown no longer covered her, but. as his hands gently
cupped her swelling flesh she no longer cared. Her back arched into his
erotic' caress, her hips pressing into his. Softly his thumbs circled
her hardened nipples. as his mouth nibbled its way down her neck.

Weak with pleasure, Ghislaine was no longer able to support herself and
wound her arms around Guy's' neck'. Her fingers tangled in his thick
hair as his strong arms pulled her upwards until her breasts were within
reach of his mouth. Her body exploded with sensation as each nipple was
gently licked and-then sucked until Ghislaine thought she would die with
the pleasure.

Slowly, she felt herself being lowered the full length of his hardened
body until her feet touched the floor. Her gown and chemise fell at the
same time.

She felt no shame standing before him naked. His eyes were dark with
passion and told her that stle was be0utiful. His hands told her how
much he desired her. Without takir/g his eyes from her, Guy removed the
rest of his clothes.

There were no more barriers between thffm and Ghislaine made no protest
when he swept her' up and carried her effortlessly to the bed.

They sank down together, Guy stretching out at her side. The firelight
was not so bright on this side of the room, but she was able to see his
eyes glittering with passion as he gazed down at her.

"Touch me," he commanded gently.

It was all the encouragement she needed. Hesitantly her fingers trailed
a path across his chest, exploring the deep cuts of war and swordplay,
the muscles of his arms~ His soft groans of pleasure made her bolder
still as her hands lowered to caress his back and his hips. She revelled
in the soft feel of his beautiful body, of his hard muscles, of the dark
hair that grew where hers did not.

Unable to endure her exploration any longer, Guy's hands cupped her face
gently.

"Kiss me," he ordered huskily before pushing her onto her back. His
fingers tangled with her hair as his tongue parted her lips and kissed
her with an intensity which left both of them gasping for breath.

Shudders of delight raced through her as Guy pushed his naked body hard
against her. It was a raw, primitive act which served only to enflame
her.

A throbbing began somewhere deep within her with a rhythm that matched
the thrusting of his tongue in her mouth.

Ghislaine responded instinctively by lifting her knees and winding her
legs around his hips. His tongue plunged deeper into her mouth as his
fingers explored her slender thighs. As they reached higher, Ghislaine
tensed, uncertain suddenly.

"Don't," he whispered hotly.

"It will make it better for you, Ghislaine." His voice was deep and
husky with desire. She could not stop now. With a conscious effort,
Ghislaine forced herself to relax as his fingers touched her in her
secret place. His mouth trailed hot, wet kisses over her face, her eyes,
her neck as his finger slipped inside her, exploring, rubbing,
pleasuring.

Her eyes opened wide at the sensations he was creating in her, her
breathing jerky and strained. Suddenly, a feeling so exciting, so
erotic, fluttered deep within her and she pushed against him harder,
knowing that he would be able to help her find it again. Raising her
body, she buried her face in his neck, flattening her breasts against
him.

"Show me," she whispered "Show me what to do."

Guy paused, his handsome face dark with passion.

"It will hurt for a moment,~ he groaned, desperately wishing he could
lessen the pain he would cause her.

"Only for a moment," Ghislaine wrapped her arms around his neck, her
eyes full of trusl Guy placed his hand~ beneath her, lifting her hips.
As he pushed gently towards her, his. mouth covered hers in a tender
kiss.

At first there was no pain, just the unfamiliar sensation. of feeling
him inside her. But as he pushed again, each time going deeper,
Ghislaine realised he was just easing himself in as gently as he could.
He waited until she was used to him before he started to move again.

Suddenly he plunged deep within her, deep into the tight, hot core' of
her, hating the pain she would feel. He waited a moment for her 'pain to
subside and then slowly, as slowly as his aching body would allow him,
Guy rocked backwards and forwards until he felt her push against him.

"As her body began moving with his,. he thrust deeper 'and deeper,
trying to give her the pleasure she was instinctively chasing. ~
-Ghislaine felt the thrusts quicken as. she pushed against him, The
pleasure she was feeling was indescribable. Nothing had prepared her for
this. Nothing. Desire leapt within her as the throbbing' increased.
Suddenly she stilled as his thrusts took her right to the brink of a
sensation she could not name. Sensing she was almost there, Guy drove
full length into her, again and again until he heard her gasps of
pleasure as the spasms racked her body. When she stilled, floating
dreamily' in the aftermath, Guy surged to his own release, spilling his
seed deep within her.

As sleep claimed her, Ghislaine snuggled up against her husband's warm
body.

There could be no sin in such pleasure. But how could she ever live in
the convent now?

CHAPTER FIFTEEN.

Dawn was spilling into the bedchamber as Ghislaine's eyes flickered
open.

Slowly, she turned to look at Guy sleeping soundly at her side, his arm
possessively draped over her shoulders. A sense of well-being filled
every inch of her body and she-stretched languorously, revelling in the
unfamiliar sensation.

Disturbed by her movements, Guy shifted position in his sleep. His hand
slipped from her shoulder to cover her breast and his mouth began to
nuzzle the delicate skin of her neck. : Ghislaine shivered with the
sheer ecstasy of having his body touch hers. Sighing soffiy to herself,
she snuggled closer. His smell pervaded her senses and She breathed
deeply, drinking in 'his male essence.

She could not have known how it would feel to be made a wife, not in a
million years, She was certain. that she would look very different, that
everyone-would somehow be able to' tell." Her cheeles flushed at the
thought of having to face them at breakfast.

Her eyes swept over her sleeping husband and she kne~ without a doubt
that she wanted to be with him; to find out about love with this man, to
bear his child.

Gently sh6 moved a lock of his hair that had fallen over his eyes.

He'was so beautiful, this scowling husband of hers, but he had not been
deterred by her plain looks last night. He had even called her lovely.

There had been no trace of a frown then. The desire in

his eyes had made her feel delicate and pretty, and he had urged her to
touch him and love him with warm, encouraging whispers.

Remembering the things he had done to her sent hot and cold arrows
shooting through her body. The pleasure he had given her so generously
had seemed to last for hours, and she wondered' if he had found as much
pleasure in her touch.

A deep, contented sigh reached her ears and a gent16 squeeze from the
large hand at her breast brought a smile to her lips. He looked so
innocent.

Innocent? Her thoughts halted. A chill enveloped her as she remembered
Father John's story of Margaret's terrible death. Could the Guy de
Courcy she knew really have caused Margaret to take her own life? She
looked at his hand, the hand that had given her such pleasure, the hand
that had never carried out his loud threats: "Nay, Ghislaine was certain
he could not. He may have been a cool mercenary with a reputation for
excelling in that vile profession but he had never displayed any
violence towards innocent people.

But if he were innocent, and it could be proven, he had wanted to return
to his old life. A life without her. He had only married her as part of
his deal with the Earl. It had been one of the few things that they had
agreed on that she was to go to the convent and their marriage was to be
annulled.

He would then be free to look for someone more suitable. She grimaced.
If Margaret Staveley was his first choice, then she didn't even come
close. His desire for her was all the more inexplicable.

A frown creased her brow. Was it really so odd? She was not so innocent
as to the nature of young men and Guy was young, and. lusty with the
same desires as any other. Lust, she decided. It was simply lust.

The germ of hope that had flickered into life died then. All he had felt
for her was lust, and if that was all it was, it would haunt them both
for a lifetime if she let it. Watching his desire wither and die, seeing
the indifference in his eyes would be a living death.

Idly she began to stroke the sun-coloured skin on his back as she tried
to imagine how it would them. Cold', perfunctory and joyless.

Nay, she could never want that.

Ghislaine gazed at him with loving eyes. Did she love him enough to let
him go? A cold band squeezed her heart. How could she not? A strange
cain she came to a decision. She would make it easy for him, she
resolved firmly.

The convent would provide peam of sorts for her.

A vision of the smooth-skinned nuns danced before her and Ghislaine
suddenly felt a rush of tears.

Sensing a change in her breathing pattern, Guy opened one drowsy eye.

Her tears were the first thing he noticed about the passionate Wife who
had loved him so joyfully the night before, and' 'the smile heart faded.

So she regretted it? Had he really been so mista about her? He felt her
long fingers slide tip his back in an unconsciously seductive movement
stirred his pulse and his body. Covertly, he watched expression of pain
on her face as she touched Nay, he did not think he was mistaken,
despite mistrust of women. She was an innocent playing no game. He had
known that last night.

Hot blood fired through his body as memories of the night before flooded
him.

She [fad been so sweet and unexpectedly passionate.

Whatever the problem, he wanted her to trust him. Ruefully he reminded
himself of all the criticisms she had launched at him.

Oafish, brutish, scowling, stinl~ing: Aye, he had been all of those
things in his ~dealings with her, and she had not hesitated to let him
know it. He had learned to expect. the truth from her lips.

Ghislaine was always prepared to tell him what she, expected of him, and
he recalled that he had made several attempts of late to do what she had
asked, It was quite amazing that he should even consider it, but her
lovely smile had somehow made him feel very pleased with himself. He
liked to please her, and he certainly enjoyed her attempts at pleasing
him!

His hand brushed gently down over her hips and thighs and he could.

feel the tremors it evoked in that wonderful body. He had not realised
just how beautiful she was beneath those hideous gowns. Her skin was
white and smooth," covering curves iwhich were deliciously soft and
generous. She was not an obvious temptress and that pleased him greatly,
although not nearly as much as her wanton behaviour in private. He
should have known as soon as he saw her flashing eyes and that first
seductive toss of her fiery hair. No convent would take her in, he
smiled confidently: Experimentally his thumb flicked over a pink tipped~
nipple that puckered instantly and he ached to take it in his mouth.

"What are you doing?" Ghislaine gasped, heat flooding through her body
"Taking advantage of your body," he murmured softly as his tongue
trailed around one hardening nipple.

"You want to do this again?" she whispered faintly, not daring to
believe it. As passion ignited at his-touch, Ghislaine told herself
their this would be the last time. She would love him once more. Just
once more. As his mouth tugged gently at her breast, Ghislaine c~aptured
his head in her hands and pulled him closer.

"Again and again," came the muffled reply, before his hands gently
caressed and explored the rest of her body.

They were both wordlessly caught in the mounting passion between them
and surrendered without resistance. This time there was no pain, just.
sweet, almost unbearable sensation as Guy thrust slowly and
languorously. Ghislaine was swept away by a wave of throbbing pleasure,
and as she floated back, Guy followed her into blissful oblivion,
groa~ningloudly as he reached his own release.

Bright sunshine was filtering into the bedchamber when Ghislaine woke
again, Judging by the noises without, it was close to midday and it was
the latest she had ever slept in her life.

Her mouth was suddenly 'caught in a soft kiss that made her heart
shudder.

"How do you feel?" Guy asked quietly, pulling himself up onto his elbow.

Smiling up into his concerned eyes, Ghislaine pushed back the
ever-drooping lock of his hair.

"Like a wife," she replied firmly, before realising what she had said.

Guy looked at her, his eyes shining a deep blue~ "Is thdt good?" he
asked doubtfully, his interest kindling nevertheless.

"I feel very  ...  peaceful," Ghislaine amended. Desired. Cherished.

Those had been the words she had wanted to say.

"Peaceful," he repeated with a lazy smile.

"You have never accused me of having that effect on you before." Idly,
his finger began to trace patterns on her arm.

"No-o-o ..." she allowed, distracted by the feelings the finger was
creating within her.

"But then you have never called me lovely before either:' Guy flushed.

"I said that?" he questioned in mock disbelief.

Ghislaine ~ighed and gazed at him steadily.

"You do not have to say those things."

Guy's eyes snapped open at the serious tone in her voice.

"What do you mean by that?" His voice had lost its gentle teasing and
his brows began to wrinkle into the beginning of a frown.

Ghislaine shifted uncomfortably. If she was going to save them both, she
would have to be strong. Stronger than she felt. Her fingers twisted the
sheet into convoluted knots, unconsciously baring her breasts.

"I mean," she began hesitantly, 'that you should not make more of this
than it is."

Guy continued to stare at his wife, watching her fingers and finding it
very hard to take his eyes off the luscious curves exposed before him.

"You think I am making too much of it?" He questioned slowly, his mind
trying to work out 'what she was leading to.

"A-aye," she stammered.

"And I am not pretty at all, as you were pleased to remind me on several
occasions."

She held up her hand as Guy opened his mouth to reply.

"But that is not really what I meant."

"Then perhaps you would explain exactly what you are getting at."

Ghislaine looked up at his darkening frown and almost smiled.

Schooling her expression carefully, she hauled herself to a sitting
position.

"Last night has changed nothing," she explained carefully.

"It was simply the result of a surfeit of drink and lust."

Nonplussed, Guy continued to stare at her Perhaps he had best hear her
reasoning. It was well-known that women had strange ideas about men.

"Drink and lust," he murmured. She could not seriously believe that.

"It should not have happened," she continued.

"But I have decided that the convent is where I still intend to go."

Guy eyed her in disbelief.

"The convent," he said flatly, 'would not have you."

"Oh?" she enquired, her eyes narrowing.

"And why not?"

"Because you are an unruly wanton with a shrewish tongue, a huge
appetite and a penchant for drink." The words were delivered with total
resignation as he folded his arms across his chest. His disgruntled tone
almost made her laugh. He was not making this easy for her.

"Since when have those particular traits barred entry to the convent?"
she retorted haughtily.

"When they are accompanied by an angry bloodthirsty mercenary with
twenty armed men threatening to attack if they did not," came the
instant reply.

Ghislaine glared at him. irritation welling up inside her.

"You," she accused angrily, 'are naught but an oafish tyrant. We agreed
I was to go to the convent."

"Things have changed," he snapped, his 'patience beginging to fray.

"You are now my wife in body as well as in name and there may be a
child."

Ghislaine stared at him open-mouthed.

"You have frequently stated your desire to be rid of me. If I go to the
convent, I will take the child with me."

"The child stays with me," he stated without hesitation. "Or is this
part of some bizarre plot to deprive me of heirst " What7 What nonsense
is this?" His statement was as idiotic as her words, but it was the only
thing he could think of in the heat of the moment. He forged on with the
argument.

"It is dear that you seduced me so that you became my true wife. If you
disappear to the convent I would be unable to marry again and so produce
no more legitimate de Courcy heirs." Guy had rounded on her, placing his
arms either side of hers, his mouth just inches from hers.

Ghislaine pushed' herself back as far as she could. "Why should I want
to do that?" she-asked weakly.

"It makes no sense."

"Why indeed, lady? But rest assured I intend to discover the truth~' he
growled, trapping her legs within his.

A hot flush shot through her body as Ghislaine reacted to his nearness.

"You would torture me?" she asked faintly.

"Whatever I need to do," came the soft reply. His lips moved over hers,
gently seducing a response from her.

"Do not," she gasped, dismayed at her own weakness. "This is not fair."

"I fight for what is mine by any means I can." His lips moved to the
tender spot at the base of her throat.

Ghislaine knew her will-power was slipping and that if she was to
succeed, this would be her last chance.

"Do you wish me to hate you for it? Could you live like that?" she
demanded with enough emotion to halt Guy's lips.

He stared at her, not believing she meant a word of it, but angry that
she could not trust him with the truth.

"So be it," he growled and pushed himself away from her.

"You would choose the convent. But you go on one condition. You remain
here to ensure there is no pqssibility of a child."

"And if there ist Ghislaine demanded. ~Then you stay until the child is
born." "That is too cruel," she said hotly.

Guy stood up and walked naked across the room to retrieve his discarded
clothes. Ghislaine found it hard to take her eyes from his body.

"You have the choice, I am perfectly willing to accept you as wife."

Ghisla'ine glared at him.

"You are a ~cold-hearted, oafish brute. The convent will be a welcome
relief."

The door slammed with finality as Guy stormed out of the bedchamber.

It was not until she heard him thudding down the stairs that she allowed
her tears to fall.

Kalim had left the manor long before Ghislaine set foot in the hall and,
much to her relief, few people seemed to notice' anything different
about her.

She busied herself with the new supplies, deciding what was to be stored
or used. The whole time, Ghislaine found it hard to concentrate on any
task and her fingers seemed permanently beset with clumsiness. Finally,
in exasperation, Ghislaine sought peace in the chapel.

The cool simplicity of the white-washed walls had a calming effect, as
they always had at moments of crisis. It was almost as if the world did
not exist beyond the walls of this small room. Ghislaine knelt in prayer
before the altar, unsure still whether she had committed a true sin.

"You are troubled, Lady Ghislaine?" Father John's voice seemed calmer
and more controlled.

She scrambled to her feet.

"My mind is somewhat distracted today," she-admitted. That was no lie at
least.

Father John nodded.

"If you wish to make your confession, I will be glad to perform the
duty." His dark eyes regarded hers steadily, and Ghislaine knew that he
would not be harsh on her.

"I am not sure that what I have to tell you will be welcome," she
explained hesitantly.

"We. shall have to put our trust in God," he replied kindly.

Her story was quickly told, and despite her lack of certainty about
telling this man how much she loved her husband and how convinced she
was of his innocence, Ghislaine finally told him all she could.

Father John looked at her with pity in his eyes.

"We do not always have easy choices to make, Lady Ghislaine. I am sure
that if you have made the right one, you will find Comfort in the
convent."

Ghistaine sighed.

"I know it but my husband is not making it easy for me."

"Have you told him why you wish to go?" asked the priest suddenly.

Ghislaine nodded.

"At least, part of why I wish to go.

For the rest, I doubt whether that would be of interest to him." She
could never tell him how much she loved him for he, would never believe
her.

"Then I will pray for us both, Lady Ghislaine." Father John knelt at her
side.

It was late afternoon by the time Guy returned from his hunting.

Ghisla. ine had delayed the meal until the guards announced his arrival
and she was certain that the toughened meat would put him in an even
blacker mood. Well, so be it.

She had spent hours dreading his return, worrying, thinking, and all to
little avail, whilst he had been enjoying the fresh air. When he stormed
through the doors, however, Guy did not look as if he had spent a
pleasant afternoon.

"So, wife. I must be grateful that you have made no attempt to escape."
His bitter sarcasm grated on her wrangled nerves.

"I have been happy to do your bidding, my lord," she replied as demurely
as she could, knowing her tone would irritate him.

His snort of disbelief told, her what he thought of that. Picking up a
goblet~ of wine, Guy was about to toss it down when he caught sight of
Father John.

"Plotting again, lady?" he demanded quietly before drinking deeply.

Ghislaine flushed guiltily.

"Father John is here to offer help and advice to those who require it.

Perhaps some could do with more than others?" she added pointedly.

"When I need advice from a priest I will seek it out, My concern lies
with what he has been offering you, lady." His blue eyes were glittering
with anger as he looked at Ghislaine.

"Father John will be staying but a short time, my lord. I am-sure that a
few hours here will be enough to convince him that his efforts here are
futile."

Ghislaine knew that she was provoking him greatly, but was unable to
stop.

Guy glared at her and poured himself another goblet of wine if I utter
frustration. "Enough, woman'," he growled.

"But if the good father so much as utters a word in my presence, he will
find out firsthand the price of staying in so brutish a household."

Ghislaine gasped at such terrible threats and turned, red-faced, to the
priest to apologlse for her husband's outrageous remarks. Father John,
however, on hearing Guy's tone and the marked antagonism between husband
and wife, had removed himself quietly to the far end of the table out of
harm's way.

Throughout the meal, Ghislaine kept glancing nervously at him," trying
to assess his reaction to Guy's voices He had certainly witnessed an
angry situation that would have embarrassed most of the clergy, but he
had kept his head down throughout the following ordeal of angry silence
and not looked once in her direction. ~ The food ~was hardly touched by
either Ghislaine or Guy and Ghislaine noticed that Guy kept staring at
the ale in a most peculiar fashion.

Only Sir Arnaud seemed able to ca, rry on a lively banter with some of
the other men, still discussing the fate of Thomas Bollyngton.

The outlaw languished in the keep, awaiting instructions from the
messenger Guy had sent to Earl Hugh. News was expected hourly.

By all accounts Bollyngton was a dead man. The dreaded court of Eyrie
would deal harshly with so active an outlaw, even in a county as lost to
law as Cheshire. Ghislaine wondered if she would have the chance to see
him, thinking he might throw some light on the death of her father. She
doubted if anyone else would remember.

"My lord," called a guard. from the door] "A messenger comes."

Ghislaine breathed a small sigh of relief as Guy ended the meal by
standing and throwing the finger cloth to the table.

"Send him in as soon as he comes." Guy moved to stand casually before
the huge fire.

The messenger brought with him the smell of night air as he handed Guy a
roll of parchment. bearing the seal of d'avranches. Guy hastily broke it
and cast his eyes over the message it contained. The man drank deeply of
the ale he was given.

For a few moments Guy said nothing. He just looked at the parchmont'and
then rolled it back carefully. His black scowl returned as he stared
into the flames.

Unable to contain her curiosity, Ghislaine went to stand by his side.

"Is there aught wrong, my lord?" she asked quietly. Guy did not turn to
look at her, but handed her the message. She unrolled it quickly and saw
the seal was indeed the Earl's. The words made no meaning since she
could not read, but it was easy to guess what was wanted of him.

"He wants your services now? I thought you had agreed to go after the
harvesting."

"The Earl of Chester is able to change his mind," he stated dryly.

"I

am to take my men to Chester this night."

"But what is so urgent that he requires you without delay?" she
demanded.

"And what of the outlaws?"

Guy did not answer immediately but went back to staring at the flames,
deep in thought.

Ghislaine turned to the messenger. If Guy was not going to ask
questions, she would do it for him.

"Did you see the Earl before you left?"

"No, lady." The messenger wiped his mouth on his cloak.

"I was given the message by one of his squires. He said it was most
urgent and I was to get it here before nightfall. The squire told me
that an escort will come on the morrow for Bollyngton and his men."

"Why can you not take the outlaws yourself?" she asked her husband.

This turn of events was most. vexing.

"It would hold us up," came the mumbled reply.

"We would travel faster without them.~ Guy rubbed his stubbly chin with
his hand and then turned towards her." I suspect the Earl is using us as
a decoy of sorts and it would seem I have little choice, lady. The Earl
demands my services and my men, Much as I would rather stay here and see
to Bollyngton, my continued protection from the shire reeves depends on
Hugh d'avranches."

His blue eyes pierced her as he placed his hands on her shoulders.

"We also have unfinished business, Ghislaine. I would ask you to await
my return before acting rashly."

Ghislaine smiled at him wanly and nodded.

"I give you my word."

Content with that, Guy pulled her close and brushed her forehead with
his lips. He then strode from the hall issuing commands to all and
sundry.

Ghislaine watched him disappear through the doors before picking up a
goblet of wine.

Within the hour, Guy and his men had set off for Chester, although not
without a great deal of noise and upheaval. He had left Sir Brian and
Sir Arnaud in charge of the manor and the outlaws. Ghislaine could tell
he was not content with the command, but he could do nothing. The Earl
was his liege lord and his protector, and hi~ life depended upon his
mercy. Their farewell was cool.

Returning to the hall, Ghislaine sat in front of the fire, her thoughts
scattered.

"May I join you, Lady Ghislaine?" Father John stood before her.

Ghislaine jumped up, suddenly remembering-why he was here. The priest
held up his hand, a smile on his lips.

"Fear not, Lady Ghislaine. Your husband is not the man, for all his
anger.

Your confidence in him was not misplaced."

Relief flooded through her and Ghislaine bieathed again.

"His,temper leaves much to be desired, though?

The priest smiled again.

"He is much tried, by the looks of him."

The smile faded.

"However, it means that the killer is still at liberty and I must
continue my search. It would be too much of a risk to clear your
husband's name and reveal my knowledge until he is discovered and
brought to trial. The truth might never come to light otherwise."

Ghislaine's joy at the news was short-liv~d. Her husband's honour
depended on the survival of this one priest. She could not let that
happen.

"It would ease my mind greatly if you were to write down what happened
as well as clear Guy's name," she appealed to him.

"If aught were to happen to you, then he would never be free of
suspicion."

Father John nodded slowly.

"I would be pleased to do that, but it would be best to return to the
abbey..

At least there there is no chance of the information falling into the
wrong hands."

Ghislaine gave him a dazzling smile.

"I shall make arrangements for you to leave in the morning."

The manor seemed strangely quiet without Guy and his men. The noise and
the mess that had caused her such' aggravation over the past few weeks
were gone, and Ghislaine-found herself staring at her tidy hall in.
despair. Somehow, it just did not look right.

She laughed to herself. Guy would be much amused to hear the woman who
had given him such earache over the less domestic attributes of his men
say she missed them. But it was true.

The only remedy for such foolishness, she admonished sternly, was to
keep busy. But for how long? The Earl's message had apparently given no
indication as to how much time Guy would spend in his service this time.
It could be days, weeks. or even months. Dispirited, Ghislaine
remembered the prisoner in the keep. If the Earl's men came on the
morrow, this would be her only chance to find out if Bollyngton knew
anything about her father's death.

The light from the one torch gave the small room a shadowy glow that
looked most eerie. Ghi. slaine hesitated at the door, but firmly quashed
all her fears. No one else would find out about her father. A small
Stocky man lay casually on the pallet at the far end of the room, his
head resting on his hands, his pale eyes Staring at the ceiling.
Ghislaine was grateful that his hands and ankles were chained securely
to a post in the wall.

At her entranc6( Thomas Bollyngton merely raised his ~head briefly and
then resumed his former position, A little piqued by his casual
dismissal of her, Ghislaine advanced towards the bed.

"You are Thomas Bollyngton?"

A round, pale face with a small bulbous nose turned towards her. As his
pale eyes roved over her with complete indifference, the thin lips broke
into a smile . which revealed a row of discol0ured, sharp teeth, He
reminded Ghislaine of an arrogant Pig'i assume you are here to feed me
or pleasure me, woman. In either case. you have ~ao need of my name."
His voice was as loathsome as his body. It had an odd strangled quality
that grated, As he shifted to sit up and watch her, Ghislaine took a
step back. in alarm; but not before his smell assailed her nose, "I am
here to do neither," she retorted haughtily "My interest in you is
confined to your.. activities in ~the forest." Her voice sounded calmer
and more confident than she felt. Knowing that there were two guards
outside the door was some comfort: Disappointed, Bollyngton resumed his
former position, his greasy thatch of sandy hair shadowing much of his
face.

"I have no reason to discuss anything with you, woman. Now leave me be."
His voice had a hard, irritated edge to it that did not inspire
confidence.

Nevertheless, decided Ghislaine, she would keep trying.

"I suggest you make it your business or you will find yourself without
food or water for as long as you are here."

Bollyngtoh continued to stare at the ceiling, completely unconcerned at
her threat. It seemed most odd.

"Think you a lack of food or water will have any great effect on me?"

he eventually replied.

Ghislaine shrugged, fascinated by-his calm, almost relaxed behaviour.

"Would it not?" she enquired.

A slow smile spread over his ugly face as if he found her words amusing.

"Not for long," came the quiet reply.

"We await the Earl's men in the morning. I have no doubt you will feel
more co-operative then," she added with more than a tinge of
satisfaction.

Bollyngton just continued his annoying little smile by way of reply.

Clearly she would get nor information from him and Ghislaine glared at
him in frustration. There was naught she could do. As she left the room
with an angry swish of her skirts, she thought his attitude was most odd
for a man facing certain death. He was calm, cool and very at ease. It
was almost as if he did not think anything was going to happen to him at
all.

Somehow, there was a nagging feeling that something was not~ right.

Ghislaine left the keep with much on her mind.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN.

"MY LADY?"

The guard's voice broke into her thoughts as Ghislaine sat before the
fire in the great hall. In the few hours that Guy had been gone, she had
been puzzling over Thomas Bollyngton. As night drew in, nothing made
sense and the uneven stitches in the hem she was attempting to sew bore
witness to her poor concentration. Even the patient priest had been
driven by her lack of conversation to take refuge in an alcove off the
hall for private reflection.

And she felt very vulnerable at the manor. Guy had taken his best
fighting men and had even had the gall to commandeer Edwin. A weakened
Sir Arnaud and a nervous Sir Brian were not a great ~leal of comfort.
She stabbed at the li~Then in frustration: "Sir Walter de Belleme is
here on the Earl's business and requests entry."

Ghislaine's hand froze. at the mention of his name. Sweet mercy, the man
was here. At least Guy was safely on his way to Chester, "Is he alone?"
she demanded, thankfully putting her sewing aside.

"There are five men with him bearing the arms of the Earl of Chester, my
lady."

Ghislaine nodded.

"Send him to me here and see that Sir Arnaud and Sir Brian are informed
o~ his presence."

When Walter de Belleme strode through the hall doors, Ghislaine had
managed to compose her thoughts. Her trembling fingers remained firmly
behind her back.

Searching his handsome face for clues as to his thoughts or suspicions,
Ghislaine saw nothing there to alarm her. His grey eyes shone warmly as
he greeted her and his smile seemed truly genuine.

"Lady Ghislaine. Iam pleased to find you at home." The tone of his voice
was friendly and confident.

"Sir Walter. You are always welcome here." She smiled back as sweetly as
her fluttering ~tomach would allow.

"But I believe you are here on behalf of Earl Hugh?"

Walter advanced to the fire, tossing his thick green cloak onto the
table as he went. Ghislaine noticed the fur trim on his beautifully made
tunic and the handsome leather boots he sported. Indeed, the man
lavished large sums of money on himself, it seemed. He accepted the
proffered goblet of wine with a smile.

"Indeed I am. We are to escort the captured outlaw to Chester whilst
your husband forays north to settle a dispute with one of the Earl's
more truculent vassals."

"North?" exclaimed Ghislaine.

"Why, I had the impression that Guy was destined for the Welsh hills."
As soon as she spoke the wor~s, she wished them undone.

"You must have been misinformed, Lady Ghislaine," he replied smoothly.
But she did not miss the nervous glance he shot around the room nor the
slight faltering of his smile. She must tread carefully if she was to
find out what scheme he had concocted. Nor must she underestimate him.

"Aye. Most likely I paid little enough attention. ! find all this talk
of keeps and strategy somewhat tedious." She smiled self-consciously and
even managed a faint blush.

Walter relaxed a little and moved closer to Ghislaine. "Indeed, my lady.
It must be a sore trial to you, having so bloodthirsty an oaf as de
Courcy for husband." His eyes held hers for a fleeting second.

Ghislaine sighed and shrugged her shoulders despairingly. "I confess 'my
life has changed greatly sinc~ my marriage, Sir Walter. I had never
envisaged it so." No one could accuse her of falsehoods there.

"My husband and I do not always see eye to eye. It has led to ...
misunderstandings and disagreements? Ghislaine allowed her eyes to
remain cast towards the floor, giving the impression, she hoped, of
trying to hide something far more intolerable.

Walter took her hand.

"My lady," he murmured.

"I have offered you 1ielp before. Are you minded to accept it-now?" His
eyes looked into hers with concern.

Ghislaine took a deep breath, "You risk much, Sir Walter," she
whispered; a' blush staining her cheeks.

"I have no desire to see you in danger for my sake."

Walter smiled seductively, his grey eyes warm with anticipation, "There
is little danger for me, Ghislaine. But I would willingly take a risk to
ensure your. happiness."

Ghislaine widened her eyes in disb~liel "I could not ask it of you, Sir
Walter. My husband is a jealous man who would stop at nothing to protect
what is his, no matter whether he truly wants it or not."

"If your husband were to  ...  disappear, Lady Ghislairie, what would
you do?" Walter stepped closer so that she could smell the rosemary in
his clothes.

Ghislaine turned to face the fire.

"Why, I don't know for sure, sir Walter." She hesitated in a coy gesture
that she hoped would find its mark.

"There is always the abbey for women such as I. It has long been my
desire to do so."

Walter remained still for a few moments and did not speak until
Ghislaine turned back to face him. His face betrayed nothing.

"It.can~be arranged for now at least," he stated finally.

"Aye, that's a good plan."

Ghislaine's whole body went rigid with fear.

"How so?" she asked, her voice almost a whisper.

"My husband has ordered me to remain here. I dare not disobey him for he
'can be so  ...  brutal in his displeasure." She shuddered with great
effect.

"Leave it to me," he replied, gazing at her worried face with an
expression of studied calm. Had he always schooled his thoughts so,
Ghislaine. wondered? If he was going to be this cool, how on earth was
she to find out his plan for Guy?

Her thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of Sir Arnaud.

'1 apologise for the delay, Lady Ghislaine, but Sir Brian'has just left
to take care of a fire in the village."

"Is it serious?" she demanded, her voice full of alarm. "We do not know.

The guard reported seeing flames and the villagers do not appear to
have. put it out yet. Sir Brian rode out with some men to see what they
can do."

Ghislaine nodded: "Keep me informed, Sir Arnaud. Have any homeless
villagers housed in the keep for the night. We have plenty of food and
blankets."

Sir Arnaud inclined his head in assent but continued to stare at "Sir
Walter with undisguised interest.

"Sir Walter. Your presence here is most  ...  reassuring." Did Ghislaine
only imagine that second's hesitation?

"You are here to escort the outlaws I assume? We did not expect you
until the morrow."

Walter stiffened but when he replied, his voice was bland.

"That is so, Sir Arnaud. The Earl decided we should arrive earlier in
case of treachery." He paused a moment, as if suddenly struck by a
suspicious thought. "If there is trouble, then I believe I must take
them without delay."

Sir Arnaud pulled his brows together in a suspicious frown and glanced
at the five mend Walter had brought with him. They stood perfectly still
at the far end of the hall, their hands at their sides, awaiting orders.

"He rubbed his hand over his chin thoughtfully before appearing to come
to a decision.

"You are right.

I'll have the outlaws taken to the bailey and you will be escorted past
the villa ge."

So saying, Sir Arnaud turned on his heels and left Ghislaine and Walter
staring ~after him. The faint smile playing on his lips was most
unnerving.

Ghislaine shot Walter an apprehensive look.

"What now?" she asked quietly.

His gaze, which had rested on the worn tapestries ado ming the hall,
shifted back to Ghislaine.

"I shall take you with me."

Ghislaine swallowed hard.

"But I said I wished ~to go to the abbey, Sir Walter." Her voice sounded
determined despite the seesawing of her stomach.

"Is there a problem with that?"

His eyes flicked over her flushed face.

"Not at all. I intend to return to Chester via the abbey. Your safety is
paramount and I cannot leave you to such despicable ELIZA8ETN ~ENSHALL
treatment a moment longer." Walter's eyes roamed over h~r face almost
tenderly.

"You must know that I once entertained hope of your hand, Lady
Ghislaine, and I would like to think that we could both be very happy,
should your husband die." His gloved hand reached out and gently touched
a red-gold braid.

"You are different to most of the other women I know."

Ghislaine was so dazed by this unexpected confession that for a brief
second she believed he was serious.

"Is that good?" she asked, unconsciously echoing a question that Guy had
put to her only hours before.

Walter's skin flushed a little as if he suddenly realised what he had
been saying.

"I wish to be more than a friend to you, if you would allow it? His
hands started to delve into a leather pouch hanging from his belt."
Perhaps you would wear this as a testimony to our friendship? It would
give me great pleasure to think of you wearing it."

Ghislaine stared at the delicately pretty gold crucifix decorated with
pearls. It shone with a red glow in the firelight and Ghislaine took it
from him to examine it more closely. Something about the crucifix looked
familiar, but she 'could not place where she had seen it' before.

"It is beautiful," 'she murmured as she placed it round her neck.

"But you had no need to give me so valuable a gift. My friendship is
freely given."

Walter smiled in the warm glow of his generosity.

"It has been in my family for some time. Keep it dose, Lady Ghislaine."

"You have my word."

"Good. Then I suggest we leave now."

His tone of voice did not brook dissension, but Ghislaine still had no
idea as to what his plans were nor how to alert Sir Arnaud. Suddenly,
from the corner of her eye, Ghislaine noticed the tiniest of movements
behind a curtain covering the alcove. For a second she deemed it most
odd that whoever was behind there had n~ emerged before now, bul before
she could say aught, she realised who it was. Father John! He had been
there all along.

A wave of cold fear washed over' her. Perhaps the reason why Father John
had not' identified himself before. was because he had heard what was
going on.

She looked down at the crucifix. Margaret had worn one just like this,
Ghislaine closed her eyes, fear seeping through every bone. He had to
know the killer. Walter had to know. He had given her a vital piece of
evidence to wear around her neck and only she would be able to say who
gave it to her.

Unless, of course, she were dead.

Her stomach lurched as she took a few steps closer to the curtain.

Maybe Father John could help her.

"What am I supposed to tell Sir Arnaud?" she babbled nervously to
Walter.

"I cannot just leave without a word." Her eyes pleaded with him.

Walter thought for a minute.

"Tell him you believe that de Courcy murdered Margaret Stave Icy and
that you can no longer bear living with him. You intend to make the
abbey your refuge until the matter is resolved to your satisfaction With
me as an escort and so few men here, Sir Arnaud is not in any position
to prevent you."

Ghislaine went quite still. It made sense, and it was well known that
they had argued about her going to the convent. Guy had made no secret
of it.

"You are right, Sir Walter. I doubl if Sir Arna ud will prevent me from
leaving. My cloak is in the bedchamber. I will just fetch it."

Somehow she had to let Sir Arnaud know the truth and wartl Guy that he
may be walking into a trap.

"No." Walter's voice sounded almost irritated.

"I will fetch it."

This was not an offer, it was a command: Not wishing to make him
suspicious nor angry, Ghislaine acceded gracefully.

Sir Walter returned with her cloak within a few minutes, but she could
not help but think it odd that he would wish to collect it himself.

He had never shown the slightest inclination before to fetch and carry.

Perhaps he was already suspicious of her, The bailey was lit by several
torches, but Ghislaine ~ould see how few. of Guy~s men were left to
guard the manor. Were she to cry out now, it would be to no avail.
Walter would kill her and escape ~vith little difficulty. Her best ploy
would be to try to escape in the dark. Guy's hunting knife lay safely
hidden under the folds of her skirt and she would use it if necessary.

"Do you leave too, Lady Ghislaine?" Sir Arnaud's voice sounded harsh and
accusing.

Ghislalne turned to face him, the cold night air making her shiver.

"Sir Walter has kindly agreed to escort me to the abbey. I have decided
I can no longer continue to remain under the same roof as a murderer
such as Guy de Courcy."

"I see. You would run like a coward, lady? I had not thought it of you."
His contempt for her shone in his eyes.

Ghislaine gritted her teeth. He was not going to make this easy for her.

"He would not let me go." Her hox~ to eyes held his, trying desperately
to "I really have no choice ' " You do reason o~ she

essage.

cy' is a ~would she ~ody on.

ea~ *~' ~ac" [' e ~at~e~ ~" Si~ ~ma~. ,~ ~t~out ~e~ :~ ~a~b -6 t ~ ten
:ast the curtain' I supp s~ ,~ cannot ~ to ~o~, ~e,"~r ~a~ , to the
turning to look behind them to see if they had been followed, but so far
he had spotted nothing.

"Do you fear attack, Sir Walter?" she asked. His agitation had not
lessened.

Walter looked at her and then at Thomas Bollyngton. "There's no telling
if his friends will try to rescue him. I doubt that they will have
realised yet that he is gone from Chapmonswiche, but with the fire in
the village, it is best to 'be wary."

Ghislaine looked over at the outlaw who was riding just ahead of her.

His expression was still calm. It was almost as if he was out on a
pleasant ride. His four companions, likewise, did not seem unduly
perturbed by their nocturnal exercise. It did seem odd that there were
only six men to escort five brutal outlaws.

Her alarm grew as they veered off the track and headed for the edges of
the foresk

"Where are we going?" she demanded as Walter picked up her reins, "We
will have better cover in the forest, Lady Ghislaine." His voice was
confident.

"But that would be the perfect place for an. ambush," she exclaimed
nervously.

"And we are heading away from the abbey."

Walter did not reply, but kicked his horse on, pulling 'her behind him.

Escape was impossible for she was surrounded by outlaws and escorts, and
Walter had a tight grip on her reins. Were she to fall off her horse,
she would be trampled underfoot by the others. A. deathly fear washed
over her.

She was going to die.

They had not gone far when Walter drew to a halt in a small clearing.

She could hear running water not far BETR^ EO HEARTS

away. All around her loomed the tall, black shapes of the forest trees.

"Why have we stopped'?" Panic finally hit Ghislaine as Walter strode
purposefully towards her.

"Is there a problem?:' she asked, frantically thinking of anything that
could give her a way out.

"No." He held his hands up to her. Wordlessly, she slid into his arms,
her heart thundering.

"Will you explain why we are here?" she demanded defiantly. If she was
going to die, she was going to do it as a de Launay should. And a de
Courcy, she be red belatedly.

Walter looked at her for a moment.

"In good time, Ghislaine? He then turned and indicated that the others
should dismount. Nervously Ghislaine glanced at them. The outlaws were
rough men who looked as though they had spent a lifetime attacking
innocent travellers. As she surveyed the escort they seemed little
better.

Her mouth went dry. She had to find out from Waiter~ what was going on.
And whatever happened to her in the end, she suddenly found that she did
not want Guy de Courcy to think that she had betrayed him.

moment, silence was probably the best she could do.

Sitting on a fallen log, she was able to watch th~ others more
carefully.

Whilst his men were the outlaws, Walter had walked to the edge of
clearing, distancing himself from everyone else. the alertness in his
still body, Ghislaine held Was he waiting for someone, or something to
After a minute or two, Walter seemed to relax turned back towards the
group. Breathing once more Ghislaine shivered with the cold and fear. At
moment, she would have given anything to see her scowling husband and
his band of marauding oafs.

Ruefully reminding herself of the number of times she had wished them to
the devil, Ghislaine quickly. wiped

the brightness from her eyes.

A heavy sigh caused her to look up suddenly. Walter was staring down at
her, his face grave.

"You are going to kill me," she stated flatly. It was not really a
question.

She could see him debating whether or not to tell her the truth.

"Honesty is best," he began quietly.

"And I have no wish to insult your intelligence. Believe 'me when I tell
you how sorry I am, Ghislaine."

Ghislaine stared up at him, every bone in her body shaking with fear,
Would he do it right away?

"Why? At least tell me why?" Her eyes Were round with fear, Walter
turned swiftly to cast a quick glance in the direction of Thomas
Bollyngton before carefully arranging his cloak on the soft ground and
sitting, down

"I doubt if I shpuld tell you, but in all conscience, I find that I wish
to," That is most . considerate' Sir Walter? , He~ provoking words
caused his mouth to twitch in irritation.

"It is not necessary," he warned.

"I shall try to curb my tongue henceforth," she replied quietly.

"Please explain," . ~ Despite the first spots of rain, Walterdid not
move.

"I am," he announced, 'a man of taste. I desire fine clothes,. a
beautiful home~ good food and wine. Such things require a great deal
more money than I had, but after a while, I realised that there were
other ways of earning't ' he sort of money I needed.

Ghislaine stared at him unblinkingly, desperately trying to keep from
throwing up all over him.

"Such as?"

"Oh, at first it was only on a small scale. Working for. the Earl
brought me into contact with a great many undesirable people. I found
ways of forcing them into giving me a slime of their earnings. It wasn't
until later that I realised how much more could be done."

At her questioning look, Walter stared at his hands. "I am not a man who
enjoys physical violence, you understand, but I do have my wits.

Teaming up with an outlaw, for instance, was the perfect solution."

He glanced at Bollyngton, who lounged a little way off.

Ghislaine's mind whirled with this information. He had been very clever.
No wonder Bollyngton had survived so long and so well.

"What will you do with him now?"

Walter breathed in deeply and shrugged his shoulders.

"I have not decided yet," he replied cautiously.

"So," Ghislaine thought aloud.

"You visited Chapmonswiche so frequently because it offered you the
perfect cover for clandestine meetings in the forest. How foolish and
naive I must have seemed."

Ghislaine gave a self-conscious laugh.

"Actually, I quite enjoyed my visits with you: But as you say, there was
a purpose. Indeed~ I had considered marriage with you."

"So that was not my imagination?"

"Not until your father became suspicious."

Ghislaine's head snapped up.

"It was you!" she accused.

"You killed him?"

Walter's face was just a pale blur in the darkness and she could not
make out his expression.

"He followed me. I was unusually careless, unfortunately, and your
father was a quick man. When he saw me with Bollyngton and his men, he
drew the correct con-clu~ion. To my immense good luck, he decided to
challenge me.

That was his mistake."

"And you killed Peter Staveley," she added thought: fully. Then her
blood ran cold.

"But Margaret? Why in God's name did, you have to kill Margaret too?"

Walter was ~ilent for a moment, considering his words.

"She was a rich widow. Like you, she lived close to the forest, but
unlike you, sweet Ghislaine, she did not ask so many questions."

"I still do not understand."

'1 had not' banked on her sense of honour," he remarked slowly..

"Apparently, she was aware that you were expecting an 'offer from me."
He sighed.

"There was every chance that she would tell you what had happened. Her
death was  ...  unfortunate?

"You are a monster," she whispered.

"I trusted you, and you betrayed my trust to your own ends."

"In the beginning," he replied quietly.

"But I admit to a fondness for you, Ghislaine. I had hoped that I might
" have been able to persuade you to help me. Unfortunately, you have a
righteous streak like your father. Like him, it will be the cause of
your own undoing."

Ghislaine remained paralysed with fear, anger and misery.

"You will not escape this," she 'hissed vehemently.

Walter laughed softly.

"Your naivety astounds me, Ghislaine. The Earl may well have been aware
of my ...  activities for some time. He chose, however, to ignore them.
I am sure that he has other plans for me.

Those for your husband, however, will be short-lived."

"What have you planned for him?" she asked, her heart thudding loudly.

The message to go to Chester was false, of course. He will have been
ambushed' by Henry Dettingham along the way. Any minute now, I expect to
have news of his capture."

"He will not be killed?"

Walter shook his head.

"I need him to be proven-guilty of the crime of murdering Margaret
beyond a shadow of a doubt. Your contribution will be invaluable."

Ghislaine 1ooke-d down at the crucifix.

"I could not live with him for murdering my friend, s0I intende'~l to
retire to the abbey.

Unfortunately, my untimely death on the way prevents me being able to
corroborate any defence he may bring."

The blond curls of her captor nodded.

"More or less. I also took the liberty of placing some of Margaret's
jewels and valuables about your bedchamber."

"And Guy will be unable to refute any of this," she added quietly.

"The Earl will not be able to ignore a direct order from the King.

Henry Dettingham will bay for justice. I have no doubt that the Court of
Eyrie will dispense the correct punishment."

"And what do you get out of all this?" she demanded in disgust.

He shrugged his shoulders.

"Dettingham will allow me your manor and a share of your husband's
treasure in return for granting him his revenge." He smiled bleakly.

"Honest people are so depressingly naive."

"Youwill rot in hell for this, Walter," she spat.

At that moment, Walter stood up abruptly. He held his hand up to her,
indicating that she should remain silent.

Ghislaine could hear nothing odd but sensed, as Walter did, that
something had changed.

"De Belleme," growled the coarse voice of Thomas B$11yngton.

"Cut me loose."

Ghislaine swirled round to see the outlaw approach, an angry expression
on his ugly face. Walter stared at him silently, weighing up his
options.

Suddenly, Ghislaine realised what he was planning. If he waa expecting
reinforcements then he would have no. difficulty l~illing Bollyngton and
blaming her death on him. On the other hand, the Others had not yet
arrived and Walter was simply biding his time.

An idea formed from her desperate thoughts.

"Loose?" she repeated with a puzzled expression. "You told me you would
kill him!" Ghislaine turned on Walter with an accusing look.

"We don't need him now."

The look Of shock and then anger on Walter's face would have given her a
great deal of satisfaction at any other time, but she was petrified that
he would kill her before she had a chance to do anything else.

"Hold your tongue, you lying bitch," he hissed. But the outlaw had
clearly been harbouring enough doubts of his own to give her words some
credence.

"Then cut me loose now," he demanded angrily. Realising he was cornered,
Walter fought back.

"If' they send the guards back to 'check on us, we'll never survive.
Think, man. Wait until they arrive."

Bollyngton glared at him, clearly unconvinced by Walter's explanation
but unable to do much about it. With a snort of defiance, he slumped
down at Ghislaine's side.

Her eyes slid over the surly face of the outlaw and decided he had no
real liking for Walter de Belleme. His anger was growing by the minute
and Ghislaine could see the tension in his body. Did he hate him enough
to kill him?

A steady thud of hoofbeats reached their ears and Walter iumped up.

This would be her only chance~ she realised. Once Dettingham arrived,
she would die.

Whilst Walter was giving orders to the escort, she slid the hunting
knife from under her skirts and edged towards Thomas B011yngton. His
face was no more than a pale smudge in the dark, but Ghislaine could see
his eyes glittering with comprehension. It was but the work of a few
seconds to cut the binding round his wrists, although it had felt like a
thousand years.

Her hands shook with fear until finally it sliced free. The outlaw's
thick fingers curled around the knife.

As the sounds beyond the clearing grew louder, Bollyngton launched
himself at Walter with the silent stealth of a practised killer, Her
legs would not move as the two men rolled in the mud, fighting for their
lives. Suddenly her mind cleared and Ghislaine pulled herself to her
feet. She had to get to the shelter of the forest.

A piercing, animal-like scream rent the air. Turning to see what had
happened, Ghislain saw the outlaw fall to his knees, his fists clenched
round his stomach. Walter was staggering to his feet, looking wildly
'for her.

Dread surged through t/er body as she tried to scramble to the safety of
the trees. A second more and she would have made it.

As his hands. closed around her ankle, Ghislaine fell head first into
the mud. Furiously kicking, Ghislaine twisted round and attempted to
pull herself to her feet, but he pulled her back down.

"I had meant to do this in your sle~ep,-you stupid wench," he ground
out.

Transferring her gaze from Walter's angry face to the knife he held at
her breast, Ghislaine's hope for a reprieve died.

"Ghislaine!"

Both of them turned at the same time. It was not Dettingham. Walter
threw her back to the ground and lurched to his feet, but Ghislaine,
realising that he would escape, clung on to his belt.

"Let go of me, you stupid bitch," he shouted frantically. Ghislaine
tried to protect herself' from his kicks and blows as best she could,
pain dulling her senses. Somehow she hung on until she felt the blade in
the back of her should err Amid shouts and the grating sounds of ~swords
clashing, Ghislaine slipped into a world of pain and darkness.

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN.

EACH time the bells rang her head threatened to explode. When the deep
thudding r did not abate, Ghislaine attempte0 to open her eyes.

Bright, piercing light flooded her vision; and she blinked hard, raising
her hand to allow herself some small respite.

"Ghislaine? Can you hear me?" A low, melodious voice spoke softly near
her ear, and she felt a cool, gentle hand on her brow.

"I don't want to hear anything," she croaked crossly. "I want to go to
sleep but the bells and my head refuse to allow it."

"Well, I for one am pleased to hear it." The voice sounded amused and
Ghislaine forced herself to sit up to try to see more easily. It was,
however, fi big mistake.

"Am I dead?" she groaned.

"I feel as if I am." She was apparently lying in a bed.

"Very nearly," came the more serious reply.

"We did not ~think you would survive at all."

"Survive?" Ghislaine forced her eyes open, but beyond the blinding light
there were only shadows.

"Where am I?"

"At the abbey."

A cup of cold water was placed at her lips and Ghislaine sipped it
warily.

It tasted sweet and refreshing. Moving her hand from her eyes, Ghislaine
gingerly peered at her companion. Gradually, as her eyes adjusted to the
light, she was able to make out the shape of a grey-haired woman.

"Helene? I ...  What are you doing here?" Ghislaine pushed herself
further up the pallet.

"Looking after you," came the reply.

"With the help of Effie and Hulda."

Ghislaine shook her head slightly in confusion. Why on earth was she
lying in a bed in the abbey with Effie, Hulda and Helene du Beauregard
to care for her? None. of this made any sense at all. All she knew was
that her head was 'throbbing and her body almost unable to move with
exhaustion.

"What did I survive?" She could see the look of tired concern etched
clearly on Helene's beautiful face as she pulled the sheets into some
sort of order.

"Do you remember anything?" Helene reached over and put her hand on
Ghislaine's forehead.

The blank look on Ghislaine's face was answer enough.

"You were wounded in the shoulder 'with a knife. Unfortunately fever set
in, and we had a battle to bring you back. Hulda has created every
concoction known to man. And a few more that aren't," she added in a wry
tone.

Helene's deliberately lights hearted chattering slowed into silence as
Ghislaine swayed.

"I think it would be best if you tried to sleep a little more. Drink
some of this. It will help."

Ghislaine wanted to refuse it, whatever it was, but the pain and
tiredness suddenly overwhelmed her again and it was all she could do to
lay her head back on the bolster and drift inio oblivion for a while.
Strange, half-remembered scenes of forests, knives and tortured screams
invaded her memory until a blissful peace slowly billowed through her.

It was the smell of the pottage that woke her. Strong and spicy, the
aroma wafted gently in to her room and lingered close to her nose.

Unable to resist, Ghislaine forced her eyes to open. Relieved that her
sight seemed to have returned without ill effect, Ghislaine hauled
herself up a little. The effort caused her to slump back against 'the
wall in exhaustion.

Every bone in her body ached and her flesh was bruised and tender.

The room was spotlessly clean and gleamed white from The rays of the
midday sun. Her eyes rested on the small window opposite in the bare
white-washed wall. The wonderful smell must have come from there.

Casting her eyes about the rest of the room, Ghislaine noticed how oddly
comfortable it was. A good fire crackled in the grate on the far side
with a small stock of. chopped logs piled to the left. Before it stood a
comfortable chair covered in a gaily coloured blanket and several' plump
cushions. Open-mouthed, Ghislaine stared at the tapestry covering the
cold floor stones. It hardly resembled the spartan rooms at any abbey
she had known.

Running her fingers over the exotic red and goki covering on the bed,
Ghislaine wondered why, amid all this finery, she felt so heartsore.

Despite the warmth and the colour in the room a bleak sadness drifted
around her that seemed inescapable.

The sound of quick footsteps outside her door caused her to look up
expectantly.

"My lady!" exclaimed Effie loudly as she hurried to tho bed; Her plump
face was wreathed in smiles as she felt Ghislaine's forehead.

"The fever seems to have gone right enough. I'll go fetch Lady Helene."
With a quick reassuring smile back at her charge, Effie bustled out
again, leaving Ghislaine bemused.

A few moments later, Helene appeared with a large bowl of steaming
pottage in her hands.

"You probably won't feel like eating much," she announced as she sat
down on the pallet, 'but you need to build up some of your strength."

The smell was even better than she had imagined and Ghislaine's mouth
watered. Is there only one bowl?" she asked as Helene held out a
spoonful to her lips.

"My son told me about your love of food," the older woman replied dryly.

"Your son?" questioned Ghislaine as she savoured the wonderful flavour
of the pottage.

"Guy," came the reply.

Ghislaine stared at her.

"Guy de Courcy is your son?" As Helene merely nodded and held out
another spoonful, Ghislaine's mind cranked slowly into thought. "Does
he, know

Helene retracted the uneaten spoonful and looked back at Ghislaine.

"He has always known but understandably refuses to admit it," she' said
simply, and, offered the food again.

Ghislaine gulped it down, remembering Sir Arnaud's tale of Guy's
parents.

"Why did you leave your hus- . ban~d?" she asked, wondering why anyone
would leave four sons and a home for a life of exclusion and scorn,
Helene continued to feed pottage to Ghislaine slowly, her mind reliving
the scenes and the thoughts that had propelled her into closing the door
on her 'old life.

"I was a foolish, young girl who yearned to be loved 'and needed by a
cold, harsh man. My husband viewed me solely as a vessel for more heirs
as well as a source of income," she said bitterly.

"I was offered the chance of a different life by someone who 'showed me
a world of love and need."

"Was it worth it?" Ghislaine demanded, feeling anger on Guy's behalf.

And yet lurking behind the anger, Ghislaine knew that those were the
very reasons she had not wanted to stay with Guy.

"I have many regrets of course," she paused.

"My lover died and I was forced to survive as best I could. I found
protection with a succession of knights, some worse than others. My sons
would have suffered far more than I did, had I taken them," she said
finally.

For ~a brief moment, Helene's face reflected the pain and the torment
she had endured, and then the expression vanished, replaced by the
familiar concern she had shown to Ghislaine.

"But God has seen fit to punish me in his own way. There were no more
children and I' pined for those I had left. Especially Guy." Her fingers
traced the intricate pattern 0n the bed cover

"I have not much time left on this earth and I choose to be near him
now.

Watching over your manor was but a small thing." Glancing up at
Ghislaine, Helene squeezed her hand gently.

"The fact that he came himself to ask me to tend you has given me much
joy."

"He did?" Ghislaine was suddenly struck by the importance of those
words.

"He is alive?"

Helene offered her more pottage.

"He brought you here himself."

"Despite the warmth of the room, a sudden chill descended on Ghislaine's
leaping heart. He had survived the ambush after all, but her gladness
was tempered by the fact that the first thing he had done was bring her
to the abbey. As he said he always would.

"He was not injured?" she asked, wondering what had happened.

Helene shook her head and pushed the spoon closer to Ghislaine's mouth.

"Not physically," she replied absently "But in the last two weeks, his
spirits have been very low. He blames himself for your injuries."

Ghislaine frowned.

"L..I don't understand," she began.

"How is he' responsible It was Walter ..."

Helene eyed her patient with concern. Placing the unwanted pottage on
the floor, she turned back to plump up the bolster and make l~er more
comfortable.

"If I have the story right, it would seem that when he received the
command from the Earl, Guy suspected that it was a trick. He made a show
of leaving in force, but sent your Edwin with some men to hide along the
track and return to your manor later. When Walter appeared, demanding
the outlaws, Arnaud sent word to Edwin He trailed Walter and then
attacked when he heard screaming. Guy managed to Outwit Dettingham and
followed Edwin.

Unfortunately, they arrived too late to save you from injury."

"I heard the horses coming," Ghislaine remembered. "Guy blame shims elf
for allowing you to be caught up in the attack. Apparently he did not
believe you would go with Walter." Helene watched Ghislaine's stricken
expression.

"I wanted to find out what he planned to do with Guy," she whispered.

"There was nothing else I could do."

"It would' seem that Guy greatly underestimated your courage:' Helene
smiled at her warmly and squeezed BETRAYED HEAUTS

her hand.

"If it is any small comfort, he has been greatly distressed by your
illness.

In fact, when there seemed little hope, I actually saw him pray in the
chapel."

Ghislaine stilled at those words. remembering something else.

"Father John! He can prove Guy's innocence." She grabbed Helene's
sleeve.

"You must find Father John."

"Ah, yes. It was Father John who was able to tell Arnaud where Walter
was taking you.

"Fortunately the men I had sent to watch your manor reported the
activity and I despatched some soldier~ to help. When Dettingham finally
realised he had been duped, he came back to the manor in search of Guy.
My men persuaded him to wait patiently. Guy's name has been cleared of
guilt these past two weeks. Dettingham was allowed his revenge on de
Belleme."

Helene's soothing words were intended to calm Ghislaine but they
heralded the end of Guy's need of her. He had placed her in the abbey
because that was where he wanted her.

"Two weeks?"

"Aye," replied Helene.

"You have been very ill and much has happened."

"Has  ...  has my husband been to See me?" she asked wretchedly, knowing
the reply, but wanting to hear the words. It would make it easier.

"Every day. I was much struck with the charge in him," she added,
watching Ghislaine's pale face speculatively.

"Change?" murmured Ghislaine.

"What change??

"He smelled so nice~' Helene announced rather proudly.

"He was also clean, well fed and handsome."

Ghislaine smiled shakily at that, but. to her horror, tears suddenly
began to pour down her cheeks. "Ghislaine, my dear!

Whatever have I said?"

" Nothing. I'm being stupid," she replied tearfully, attempting to wipe
them away with the back of her hand.

"Not as stupid as my son, I think," said Helene, handing her a rag.

"What do you mean?" Ghislaine dabbed at the tears. "I have no idea why
you are here and not at home in your own bed. His wits were clearly
lacking for he said something about you preferring to be here."

That brought a fresh wave of tears to her eyes and it was' several
moments before Ghislaine was able to talk again.

"I did say that," she mumbled in between sniffs. Helene stared at her in
astonishment.

"But I didn't really mean it," Ghislaine continued miserably.

"I

thought it would make him happier."

Understanding suddenly dawned on Helene.

"I think you had better explain," she said kindly.

"You may be in aeed of furtherf maternal advice."

Ghislaine eyed her somewhat warily, but in truth she had sore need of
telling someone how miserable she felt. After much prompting, she told
Helene as much of the story as she could.

"Well. It seems that the pair of you have been a little foolish, but I
am well aware how cold my son can be."

Ghislaine's questioning look prompted Helene to sigh.

"He has much of his father in him."

"That is so reassuring," came the muffled reply.

"The difference lies in the way he looks at you," Helene continued.

"If my husband had looked at me in the same way, I would not have left."

"What way?" This made no sense.

Helene just laughed. "Rest now, Ghislaine. You are still very weak.

Effie will stay with you since I have to leave for a little while."

She gave her a reassuring smile. "I want you looking your best for
tomorrow, Ghislaine. Promise me?"

Ghislaine nodded wordlessly. She did feel better for talking, but it had
not made the problem go away. Helene's suggestion of sleep suddenly
seemed very attractive.

"I promise," she muttered, closing her eyes, but wondering what was so
special about tomorrow.

The next morning, Ghislaine was badgered into breaking her fast with
fresh bread and honey by a tyrannical Effie. When she had at last eaten
to Effie's satisfaction, she was ordered into a tub of steaming water.
Her body 'was scrubbed clean and her hair washed until Ghislaine
wondered if there would be any left.

Sweet:smelling oil was rubbed into her tired and aching limbs arid
Ghislaine felt a sense of languorous well-being creep through her body.
As she sat resting before the fire drying her hair, Effie cleaned and
dressed the wound in her shoulder. To complete the transformation, she
handed Ghislaine a new night-rail.

Ghislaine stared at the garment in wonder. The linen was the softest she
had ever felt, and the sleeves and collar were trimmed with pretty lace
and ribbon.

"It's lovely," she breathed, holding it to her.

"And,it fits!"

"Of course it fits," scoffed Effie.

"Your husband had it made for you."

Ghislaine stilled.

"He had it made for me," she repeated disbelievingly.

"When?"

"Whilst you were ill." Effie smiled.

"He was that concerned that you should have lots of gowns and pretty
things," she confided.

"He had five seamstresses come from Chester to make up all that cloth
Kalim brought. He asked Lady Helene's advice."

Effie crossed' the room to the chest at the side of the bed.

"Look, my lady. He sent them as soon as they were ready."

Effie was right, realised a dumbfounded Ghislaine. One by one she took
out the beautiful, gowns, petticoats, surcoats, cloaks and underwear,
taking care to spread them on the bed. The array was breathtaking, it
was all so fine.

The materials were gorgeous: embroidered silks, brocaded velvets, finest
wools, and some she really had no idea about ~t all. The instant she saw
thom, she knew they would suit her colouringi golds, emerald-greens,
peacock-blues, pewter-grey. Ghislaine closed her eyes. He was making it
very difficult for her.

"None of this is suitable for the abbey,~' she said as calmly as she
could.

"I don't think so either," replied Effie doubtfully.

"But then he was that upset, he wasn't thinking straight," she added
quietly.

Ghislaine stared longingly at the gowns. They were beautiful, truly
beautiful, and no one had ever given her anything so lovely. But she had
no right to any of it.

She sighed heavily and then looked up at Effie who tried hard to quickly
mask a very miserable expression. "You never know, Effie.

With me in the abbey, you might have more time to persuade Edwin to take
pity on you?"

Effie's eyes welled up.

"He's gone. Sir Guy asked him what he wanted as a reward for saving you
and he took his freedom. Said you didn't need him here any more."

Ghislaine felt numb. Edwin had always been there. "Where has he gone?"
Her face was as stricken as Effie's.

"He went in search of his family's killers, he said." Effie subsided
into muffled sobbing.

Memories of another lifetime flooded 6hislaine's mind. When they were
young, he had always vowed he would search for them and take his
revenge. Now Guy had given him that chance.

"He'll be back, Effie," she said quietly. All she could think of was
that even Edwin had deserted her.

A knock at the door sent her quickly to her bed whilst Effie went to see
who it was.

"Father John!" Ghislaine exclaimed, pleased to see him.

Effie. bobbed a curtsey and took the opportunity to escape and find a
quiet corner to nurse her sorrows in.

"I hear the fever: has pas~ed, Lady G!~isl,aine," he smiled, sitting at
the end of the pallet, Ghislaine returned his smile.

"I believe I have you to thank for the fact that my injuries were as
slight as they were."

"You are too kind," he stammered, blushing with pleasure.

"I did what I thought was best."

"Aye, you did." Ghislaine's smile faded.

"And is yo~ur soul at peace now?"

The briefest of smiles touched the friar's lips: "In a way." He lifted
his hands in a despairing gesture that she understood. '1 think it will
take time for me to forgive my sell "We are often our own harshest
critics, Father, but I am most grateful for your intervention." Ghis!
aine reached out to touch his arm.

The priest placed his long, knotted fingers over hers in an act of
friendship.

"I am pleased to tell you that your husband has also shown the extent of
his generosity."

When Ghislaine raised her eyebrows in enquiry, the friar's face fell.

"I hope I have not betrayed a confidence," he frowned.

"Generous?" Ghislaine inclined her head in~ confusion. "Just how
generous has he been?"

"He has donated enough to rebuild the kitchens. It is his belief,
apparently, that those spending' their lives following the path of
goodness deserve a good meal-at the end of the day. It was an odd thing
to bestow, but we are grateful, of course."

Ghislaine stared at him wildly for a moment before the amusement bubbled
to the surface.

"My husband has a sense of humour, too," she laughed.

"Your husband is essentially a good man, Lady Ghislaine. He has,
however, found your illness a sore trim, and, I believe, that there will
be many at Chapmonswiche who will be singularly grateful for your early
return."

"I ...  That is, I am sure that my husband expects me to stay at the
abbey, Father John." Her expression spoke volumes despite her attempted
cheerfulness.

"If it helps," he began kindly, 'your husband was almost beside himself
when he found out you were so badly injured. He insisted on carrying you
himself and he spent the first two days here with you. He did not leave
your side.

Father~ John looked across at her tight-lipped expression speculatively.

"There is something else that I should not in my capacity as a priest
divulge. But I am sure that God would perhaps understand. We spoke at
length about your desire to go to the abbey.

Your husband was under the impression that you wished to go there to
escape him and several times stated--most convincingly--that you had no
true vocation. He also showed a great interest in when exactly I told
you he was not the man who murdered Margaret."

Ghislaine must have looked perplexed, so he hastened to enlighten her.

"It was not until after;.. Kalim had left."

Understanding dawn6d and Ghislaine blushed.

Whatever she was about to-say was interrupted by the arrival of a very
flustered Effie.

"It's him!" she shrieked.

"He's come for you. The abbey is surrounded."

Closing her eyes, Ghislaine tried to blot out' the lurching of her heart
and the sudden excitement that was welling within her. She tried to tell
herself to be calm, that he was just here to complete their 'unfinished
business'~ as he called it. When her eyes opened again, Effie was
staring wildly at her, wringing her hands. Father John had rushed to the
window and stood on a stool as he looked out.

"It's true," he confirmed quietly. Turning back to look at Ghislaine, he
added, "And I think he's come to do more than talk to you."

Despite her outwardly calm appearance, Ghislaine's mind was frantically
thinking of what she would say to him if she did see him. She loved him,
but she could not stay with him if he did not want her. It would be far
better to stay now. Far.

far better.

The sound of heavy footsteps thudding along the corridor reminded
Ghislaine of a similar occasion, just six weeks earlier. Only this time,
she felt very different. Then she had been scared of a monster she did
not know, who had been accused of murdering her friend, who had
kidnapped her for his own ends and who scowled at the world. This time,
she wanted to go with him.

As the wooden door banged open, Guy stormed in, filling the room with
his presence.

"Out," he growled. Effie and Father John looked towards Ghislaine in
pity before scuttling from the tiny room.

"Helene du Beauregard said you wished to talk to me." His voice was
almost a growl.

Cold blue eyes raked her with deliberate slowness as Ghislaine pulled
the sheets closer to her chin. Determined not to show any sign of
weakness, she lifted her head in defiance, tossing her hair back over
her shoulder: The movement seemed to mesmerise him for a moment.

"Did shet Ghislaine's voice was almost a whisper. What had the woman
done?

"I am pleased to see that you. are recove{ing," he said eventually.

It was hard to tear her eyes from him for he was looking so fine. The
unruly, dark hair had been trimmed into order and the dark stubble
normally thick on his Chin had been barbered very carefully away.

Somehow, he did not seem so very threatening.

"No small thanks to you, I believe." She was relieved to hear her voice
sound almost cheerful.

Somewhat wrong looted by the pleasant tone of voice he noted, Guy took a
few steps forward. Casting his eyes' about the room, his fingers flicked
the cushions on the chair.

"Have you been comfortable?"

Ghislaine smiled back a little self-consciously.

"To be honest I have not really had much time to appreciate it. But I'm
sure I will," she added quietly.

At those words, Guy immediately stiffened.

"Not as much as you would wish, lady. You return with me this day or I
will burn down the abbey."

All her good intentions dissipated at that threat. "You forgot to add
that you'll have my people exiled," she rmled, the sheet slipping in her
anger.

"Presumably you've had little opportunity for practising your threats
since I've been ill."

His lips t~ghtened to an angry line and his hand raked through his dark
hair.

"Your stay here has done little to improve your temper," he bit out
between his teeth.

"I," she announced with icy superiority, 'have been ill. What is your
excuse?"

Guy glared at her with narrowed eyes before turning suddenly to stand
before the fire. Ghislaine was left to stare at his back.

"You betrayed my trust by leaving wish Belleme."

"But I did not want to escape with him," she whispered. "He forced me to
go and I demanded he take me to the abbey in the hope of finding out
what he planned to do with you."

Guy stared at her, a look of disbelief on his face. "Will you return
with me of your own free will, then," he asked suspiciously, 'or do I
drag you back?

"Why?" she asked quietly.

"Why do you want me back? I am pleased to hear that you are now a free
man and can return to your old manor.

What need have you of me?" "I have no idea," he said crossly, turning to
face her once more.

"You eat-huge amounts, you drink the cellars dry, you career across the
county shooting the Earl's game and you have an abominable temper." He
frowned darkly as Ghislaine stared at him, her mouth agape.

"Well, it seems to me that my particular accomplishments do not hold
much appeal for you. I see little point in dragging me back for further
abuse," she snapped~ She sounded ~so aggrieved by his description of her
that Guy could not prevent a smile tugging at the corner of his lips.
Walking over towards her, he sat down at her side. The harsh gaze was
replaced by a softer, much warmer appraisal.

"Ghislaine, I have no desire to find another wife, I do assure you.

My mother has been keen to extol your virtues to me, and in truth her
arguments are sound. Nor," he added as an afterthought, 'do I think I
can persuade Joachim to leave with me: He is under the impression that
he is the only one who can control Elfrieda's temper and she is adamant
that her place is at Chapmonswiche. They have asked for permission to
marry." He shook his head.

"I think that finding another wife would be most troublesome to me."

"I thought you did not want a wife at all," she accused. The man was
most vexing.

"Your old way of life with Arnaud held more attraction.

Now that your name is cleared, you are free to return to your old
manor."

Guy's head lowered and he rubbed the back of his neck to ease the
tension there.

"Aye; well, I've become accustomed to you over the weeks," he allowed.
He looked up at her.

"Besi~les, my old manor no longer suits my purposes so well?

"It does not?" Gl~islaine queried Her husband was a very changeable man.

Guy shook his head.

"Dettingham petitioned the King so often that William was forced to make
enquiries. Earl Hugh has suddenly shown himself right keen to reduce the
number of outlaws in the area and felt I might be of help." He smiled
briefly at his wife's perplexed expression.

"This will come as a shock to you, but your disreputable husband is now
a very respectable shire reeve."

He reached out and closed her mouth gently. "Arnaud has gone to take
charge of the other manor, and Sir Brian and I have come to a
satisfactory working arrangement, but neither of us has proved up to
managing the women very well.

So you see, ! have grave need' of a wife." Pausing to take her hand, he
added softly, "There are other reasons, of course."

He Was sitting uncomfortably close, and Ghislaine was finding it
increasingly difficult' to remain calm with her hand in his; ;I know,"
she replied, desperately thinking of these other good reasons.

"You've had all those gowns made up at considerable expense and they are
unlikely to suit anyone 'else." Ghislaine found it hard to look into
those searching blue eyes.

"No. That's not the reason. Although," he added thoughtfully, "I had not
thought of that." Ghislaine noticed that his eyes kept straying to thee
top of her night gown. The sheet had slipped and she had forgotten how
transparent her gown was. Glaring. at him, she pulled the sheet back up.

"Lust will fade quickly," she replied confidently.

"And then you'll be left with a wife you no longer want."

Guy was speechless for a moment.

"Is that what all this is about he demanded, enlightenment spreading
over his face.

Her chest heaving with indignation, Ghislaine turned on him.

"That may be all to you, Guy de Courcy," she fired at him, 'but I can
assure you it is no small matter to me."

It took a minute for him to digest that information. "So," he said
slowly, 'you are confident that your own lust will not fade so quickly?"
He raised an eyeb.rowin question.

Ghislaine blushed furiottsly at his words "Nay," she said hoarsely.

"I m~an.. yes  ...  L.."

A finger gently lifted her chin and Ghisiaine found herself looking into
smiling blue eyes.

"Perhaps you would care to tell me how long you think it might last." He
was teasing her and she found his humour misplaced.

'1 doubt, my lord, that it will last that long," she replied airily.

"My duties at Chapmonswiche are so arduous now, with all those oafish
men of yours forever creating work, that I am likely ~to drop dead
within the year."

"Ah! But you are confident your desire will last a lifetime then?"

"Yes? she snapped back angry that he had forced such an admission from
her.

"But I fail ... ?" Her words were stopped by Guy pulling her into his
arms and kissing her with an intensity that fired her blood. Tearing his
lips away, Guy placed his forehead on hers.

"I swear to God.

Ghislaine, that I never realised how much I loved you until I thought
you would die. Marry me."

Ghislaine disentangled herself from his arms to face him.

"You love me?" she whispered in disbeliel "Truly?."

"Aye. But don't ask me why, for it defeats me." he said curtly. He
looked so disgruntled that she could not repress a chuckle'.

"Well?" he prompted.

"Will you marry me?" "We're married already," she said, staring at him
in confusion.

"I believe. that I was somewhat despotic during the ceremony, and I have
to admit thinking that you weren't putting your heart into your vows."
The 'smile he gave her was almost boyish, and very convincing.

"I cannot fault your logic, Sir Guy," she said joyfully, not quite able
to believe that this was true.

"But I think I will accept your kind offer."

"Think? Perhaps you need some persuasion?" he offered, gathering her
into his arms for another heartwarming kiss.

"And the terms of the marriage contract? Are they the usual ones?"

Ghislaine turned dark, questioning eyes on him, whilst tracing the
outline of his mouth with her fingers.

Guy merely nodded his head, distracted by her finger.

"Then I have an additional stipulation," she announced.

Guy stiffened slightly in her arms.

"And what might that be?"

"That you practise your husbandly duties with greater frequency than you
did during our last marriage."

Guy's smile was devastating.

"You are naught but a 'saucy wanton sent to try my patience greatly,
wench.

And if! do not comply?"

"Then I shall have no choice but to send you to the priory and search
for a husband who possesses more natural charm."

Guy laughed and pulled her back to him, proceeding to demonstrate
thoroughly that he was keen to adhere to her demands.

MILLS BOON'

Since the turn of the century, the elegant and fashionable Dewilde
stores have helped brides around the world realise the fantasy of their
'special day'.

Now the store and three generations of the Dewilde family are torn apart
by the separation of Grace and Jeffrey Dewilde-and family members face
new challenges and loves in this fast. paced, glamourous,
internationally set series.

c~Car ~ddin~ ravama~ aztd ffi'mauc -a fantastic line up of 12 new
stories from popular Mills & Boon authors NOV~tber 1996 Bk .3 DRESSED TO
THRILLKATE Hoffmann Bk .4 WILDE HEART- Daphne Clair A~ailable from WH
Smith, John Menzies, Volume One, Forbuoys, Martins, Woolworths, Tesco,
Asda, Safeway and other paperback stock isis Return this coupon and
we'll send you 4 Mills & Boon Historical Romancam novels and a mystery
gift absolutely FREE! We'll even pay the postage and packing for you.

We're mak~g you this offer to introduce you to the bane fits of Reader
Servicei FREE home delivery of brand-new Mills & Boon Historical Romance
novels, at least a month before they are available in the shops, FREE
gifts and a monthly Newsletter packed with information.

Accepting these FREE books and gilt places you under no obligation to
buy, you may cancel at any time, even after receiving just your free
shipment.

Simply complete the coupon below and send it to: Mlu. ~ &

BOONR~. ADER SERVICE, FREEPOST, CROYDON, SURREY, CR9 3WZ.

No stamp needed Yes, please send me 4 free Mills & Boon Historical
Romance novels and a mystery giff~ 1 understand that unless you hear
from me, I will receive 4 superb new titles every month for just Pr .2.
99' each postage and packing free~ I am under no obligation to purchase
any books and I may cancel or suspend my subscription at any time, but
the free books and gifts will be mine to keep in any caso .0am ov~ 18
years of age) Heje Ms/Mrs/MISS/Mr. .

Address Postcode Offe~ closes 30th April 1997. We res ewe the right to
relu~e an ap~. prioes and terms ,ul~ to change without notice. Offer
noly valid is UK anti Ire~d and is not available to ~un'ent subscribers
to this series. Relmm In Ireland pleaae write to: P. O. Bo~ 4~46, Dub#n
24.

Overseas readers please write lot (le~aiis. MALU~O You may be mailed
with offers from olhe~ reputable nora parties ~ a of this application.
Please ~ box if you would prefer not to receive [] istorical ornancetm
Coming next

THE RAIN BOROUGH

Y-Men D/c on YORK 1709/10

Miss. Lucinda Howard had had several skirmishes with an unknown
gentleman, who Clearly had no pretensions to the name, so when he
claimed to be the Earl of Rainborough she had no hesitation in denying
the possibility. Then he arrived at her home, truly the Earl~ to propose
to her elder sister Henrietta. Laurence had inherited debts, and a
wealthy marriage was the only real solution, but Henrietta loved
another. Lucinda thought she would not see him again rebut she had
reckoned without the machinations of her aunt Celia!

LAST GAMBLE

Mary Nichols ENGLAND 1820

Miss. Helen Sanghurst had had too many shocks, discovering after her
father's suicide that he had gambled away her inheritance~ It was some
relief to find she had a guardian, even if it meant travelling from
London to Scotland.

Needing some peace, she was bent on travelling alone, but coach travel
was risky and Helen was secretly thankful for the protection offered by
Captain Duncan Blair, also travelling north. That didn't mean, however,
she was going to reveal her identity to a stranger, no matter how
attractive.