Courtly Love Read online

  Serena had given her stepmother an innocent look. "Whatever do you mean, Aurelia? I was given permission to take whatever I needed, since 'twas my money that purchased the lot." Serena spread her hands. "My need was great."

  "But . . . but there were colors that would not suit you in that room, several bolts that were chosen purely to compliment my complexion. Surely you didn't use those?"

  "Of course not." Serena had affected a wounded tone.

  "Well, then, what did you do with them?"

  "Do with them?" Serena chewed on a long fingernail as she pondered the question, then flashed Aurelia her sweetest smile. "Why, since the colors did not please me, I burned them."

  Bryan had choked back a fit of laughter that was entirely missed in the face of Aurelia's anger.

  "Burned them!" Aurelia fairly screamed the words.

  Serena shrugged. "Everyone else seemed determined to decide the disposition of my dowry, so I thought it best to lend a hand." She smiled brightly. "Was there anything else you wished?" Lord Geoffrey shook his head. "Then if you will excuse me, I have some fittings left on my gowns, and packing I must attend."

  A sneeze shook Serena from her reverie, and she gave her nurse a sympathetic smile. "Poor Nellwyn, this journey's not been easy on you, has it?"

  "Ah, child, me old bones ache, and I be chilled through and that's a fact. How much farther before we reach that accursed Norman's castle, lamb?"

  "Hush, Nellwyn, the accursed Norman will soon be my husband." Serena giggled, belaying the stern command of her words, for Nellwyn knew full well the extent of her charge's dislike of the forthcoming marriage. "If you'll raise your old head, I believe that's Camden directly in front of us."

  The four towers of Camden rose high above the stone rectangle of the castle proper. The windows were tall, narrow slits made for the purpose of defense; an archer made an insignificant target when in position by the openings. From the top of the walls and towers long wooden shafts protruded. Their use—Serena knew at once—was to support huge vats of boiling oil, which could be poured down on attackers. Guards were spaced at even intervals along the walls, and all carried the English longbow, that weapon having proven more effective at a long range than its Norman counterpart, the crossbow. Serena's brow furrowed as she studied the castle. It was perfectly situated for defense as it sat upon the crest of a hill. Undoubtedly there were numerous wells within the walls, an armory, graneries, and buildings to house animals as well as the serfs who would flee from their farms to the safety the castle offered during time of war. Serena lifted her eyes and scanned the walls, seeking the unknown man who was to be her husband among the unfamiliar faces gazing down at the procession in rapt attention. Leaving Nellwyn to grumble about the discomfort of her saddle, Serena touched a heel to her horse's flank and rode back to join Bryan and Richard.

  "Serena?" Richard covered her hand with his, as she joined him. "You've been avoiding me. We haven't had a chance to talk since your marriage was announced."

  "I've not been avoiding you, Richard. I've been busy, 'tis all. Besides, what do we have to discuss?"

  "Why did you accept his proposal? You know we often talked ..."

  "Don't, Richard, please! I'm sure Bryan has told you the matter was taken out of my hands, and your father would never have accepted me with such a small dowry. It doesn't matter now, anyway. Oh, don't make this worse than it is already. What's done is done, and there's no help for it!"

  Her fears had suddenly caught up with her, and Serena sought refuge in Bryan's teasing banter.

  "The one on her left is Bryan, Serena's brother. The other is Richard. I believe he hoped to wed the girl." The woman stepped from the window to begin dressing. "Go ahead, Gyles, take a look. Aren't you anxious to catch a glimpse of your blushing bride?" she laughed and slipped the kirtle over her generous curves.

  Gyles shrugged as he belted his sword over his tunic. "I'll see her soon enough, and from the description you gave me, the lass has little to commend her." But he crossed to the window and squinted dark green eyes against the glare of the snow, as if hoping to see through the hood that hid Serena's features from him. "There's little enough of her from what I can see. How old did you say she was, Beda?"

  "According to Aurelia, she just passed her seventeenth birthday." Beda studied Gyles's profile. "A Saxon virgin for your wife, Gyles. My sister and I arranged everything beautifully, don't you agree?"

  "You always seem to get everything you want, Beda. On that point I agree. It was Kier's bad luck that you didn't want him I suppose." Gyles's voice held a bitter undertone.

  Beda rubbed her now fully clad body against Gyles. "Ah, Gyles, how could I settle for him once I set eyes on you? I'll never forget the day you came here, so cold and arrogant in your manner, so openly disdainful of us all. But there was a chink in ypur armor, brave knight, and I found it. Do not forget our agreement."

  "Do you threaten me, Lady Beda?" Gyles raised his eyebrows.

  Beda's hand caressed the broad expanse of his chest. "Threaten? Never that, Gyles. I mean only to warn you. I doubt the fair Lady Serena will take kindly to having your bastard son raised under this roof."

  Gyles's hand caught in Beda's white-blond hair, as he pulled her head back. "Bastard or not, he is my son and he goes where I do. No one threatens Alan or mistreats him."

  "Of course, Gyles, I understand. It was Kier's misfortune that he chose to teach Alan a bastard's place in this world when he did. Gyles, you are hurting me!" This last emerged as a gasp.

  Gyles's hand had tightened in her hair, briefly, but now Gyles pushed her from him roughly, as if he could no longer bear her presence. "I do not remember Kier's death, I do not remember killing him as I've told you before!"

  "I know, Gyles. That is the basis for our ... arrangement, is it not? I have sworn that my husband drowned after he was struck by a tree limb. In return for that, you have agreed to see to my personal . . . ah . . . contentment and well-being. Tis a fair agreement, Gyles, we both have what we most desire. You have your freedom, your son, and now a wife; and I at last have a man to fill my bed instead of a pleading jackass. I am even willing to share you with your wife. Young as she is, I doubt she will think it amiss that you do not seek her company every night."

  Gyles's green eyes clouded. "You cannot really expect me to play the part of your stud after my marriage, Beda. The idea is absurd."

  Beda paused at the door that joined their bedchambers, her eyes flashing contempt. "But I do expect it, my handsome bastard knight. And if you don't do exactly as I say, I will see to it that the hangman stretches your neck. Then what will become of your son?"

  * * *

  Serena drew her mount to a halt and watched the tall, slim man descending the steps. His shoulders and chest were broad and tapered down to a flat belly, slim hips, and muscular thighs. His walk was steady and relentless, like a cat stalking its prey, one hand resting easily on the hilt of his sword. The thick, black hair glittered darkly against the white of the snow that fell upon his head, and his brilliant green eyes seemed to look through rather than at his guests. Serena gave a small shiver beneath her blue velvet cloak when she saw the small scar that curved down from the middle of his cheek to the corner of his mouth. Dark eyebrows the same color as his hair arched slightly at Serena as if he could sense her scrutiny, but she could not be sure, because at that moment Gyles strode forward to greet Geoffrey.

  "What say you, sister, do you find the groom to your liking?" Bryan's voice was low, but Serena caught the hint of anger in it.

  "He's so old, Bryan!" Serena murmured in dismay.

  "Nay, Serena, only one and thirty. Still young enough to keep a new wife flat on her back in bed, I've no doubt."

  "You're being crude, Bryan, and I'll not stand for it. Either keep your untoward comments to yourself or go away from me. You'd better keep that wineskin hidden. You know Aurelia doesn't approve. I have enough to worry abo—" Serena's voice died in her throat when she saw Gyles and Geof
frey approaching.

  Bryan noted his sister's pallor and its cause and threw Gyles an angry look. Which is this one, thought Gyles, rejected lover or protective brother? He sneered silently as he watched Bryan lift Serena from her horse and set her upon the ground. Apparently he was not to be allowed to touch his future wife more than necessary before the wedding. Serena dropped into a deep curtsy when Gyles halted before her.

  "Rise, Lady Serena. Welcome to Camden." Gyles extended his hand to help Serena to her feet and found himself staring into the loveliest face he had ever seen. Huge blue eyes generously fringed with long, sooty lashes looked at him unwaveringly, the delicately shaped rosebud mouth was slightly parted to reveal even white teeth and the corners of her lips turned upward into a small smile.

  "Thank you, m'lord." Serena strove to keep her voice even as she gazed entranced into cloudy green eyes. The man had a magnetism about him that was undeniable. Her cold hand was enveloped by his large warm one and Serena found herself wondering what it would be like to be securely held against that broad chest surrounded by strong arms. Yet . . . she felt or sensed that he was angry, but at what... or was it whom?

  Aware that all eyes were focused upon them, Gyles dropped Serena's hand and addressed her father. Serena turned and stroked the soft muzzle of her horse, all too conscious of Aurelia's high-pitched laughter floating back to her from the entrance of the castle. A hand grasped the bridle and Serena looked up into Richard's tightly drawn face.

  "Serena, I—" Richard stopped abruptly, an apology in his brown eyes. He quickly walked away.

  Serena was puzzled but relieved at Richard's sudden departure. Her nerves were strained to their limits and she feared that if Richard continued with his entreaty and imploring looks she would burst into tears. What she couldn't see was the warning look Gyles had bestowed upon Richard while they talked. Arranging a tryst with her lover already! Women were all alike, harlots the lot of them! This young girl for all her innocent looks was just like the rest All the women he'd bedded had been married and none—least of all Beda—felt any guilt at cuckolding their husbands. Well, his wife would not put horns on his head, of that he would make certain. Gyles went to Serena's side and drew her hand through his arm and led her to the castle entrance.

  "I'm sure you must be tired and chilled after your journey. I'm afraid there are people you must meet before you can retire to your chambers. You will be expected to attend the evening meal, but you needn't stay for the entertainment afterward if your weariness proves too great."

  Serena glanced up at Gyles, wondering at the harsh note in his voice. Now what have I done? He speaks as if he hates me and we just met.

  The four women on the stairs turned as a body and fixed their eyes on Serena. Aurelia's sister, Beda, was simple to identify by her coloring and her resemblance to Aurelia. The other two women were the old lord's wife, Lydia, and his daughter, Mara. It was plain to see that both resented Gyles's presence and the fact that he was now lord of Camden. But Serena was sure that she had missed something in the exchange between Beda and Gyles. There was a certain predatory gleam in Beda's pale blue eyes when she looked at Gyles, and he treated her with a mocking formality that hinted of intimacy.

  "Serena is tired, I'm sure. Mara, show her to her chambers." Gyles made the merest sketch of a bow and turned to join Lord Geoffrey.

  Mara threw a look of disgust at her half-brother's back as he disappeared into the castle. "You will have to excuse Gyles, he's dreadfully lacking in manners. But you'll find that out for yourself." Serena said nothing, so Mara continued chattering as she led Serena through imposing, high-ceilinged halls and corridors. "I really don't know what Father was thinking of. 'Twas bad enough when Kier was alive, but now that Gyles is lord of the manor he's positively insufferable. I've had your chambers made up in the women's quarter; you have a beautiful view of the lands, and 'tis one of the coolest rooms in the summer."

  "That's very nice, Mara, but I thought . . . well, I shall be sharing Gyles's chambers starting tomorrow." Serena's cheeks burned hotly and she avoided Mara's gaze.

  Mara threw Serena an odd look. "Oh, yes, of course. Well, we shall see. In the meantime, Gyles said these were to be your rooms. Here we are."

  The door to the chamber was open, and Serena's breath caught in her throat. A fire crackled in the huge fireplace, the large bed was covered with an emerald green velvet that reminded Serena of Gyles's eyes; tapestries hung on the walls, and wardrobe chests lined the outer wall. Serena dropped her cloak onto one of the chairs by the fire, scuffing the rich fur pelt beneath her feet as she did so.

  "There is a private chapel in here." Mara opened a door and pointed. "There is a friar in the village so you can make arrangements for him to say Mass or hear your confession at your convenience. Is there anything you wish? No? Well then, I'll see you at the meal. One of the servants will come for you. I suggest you try to rest; you will need it before the night is over." With a faint smile Mara withdrew, the door closing softly behind her.

  Serena threw herself upon the bed and pouted at the ornately carved headboard. What kind of a household was this? Mara and her mother obviously hated Gyles; there was a strange undercurrent between Beda and Gyles; and she, Serena, was to marry this cold, remote man. Gyles himself, well, that looked like another problem. Was he attracted to her, Serena wondered? The top of her head barely reached the middle of his chest, and she knew it would take little effort on his part to lift her in his arms and carry her to his bed. Serena's eyes widened at the thought. What was she thinking of ? How could she even consider. . . . She didn't even know Gyles, and, yet, what would it be like to have that lean body pressed firmly against her own? Would those green eyes soften when he gazed down at her? How would his lips feel as they played freely over her own mouth? Enough! Serena's mind screamed at her. Rest now; time enough later, to sort out your thoughts.

  * * *

  The great hall was filled with the smell of roasting meat and the sound of the knights' ribald laughter as they speculated about Gyles's future wife.

  "I've heard she's little more than a mite." One grizzled veteran laughed, and at Gyles's silence and raised eyebrows he continued. "White as linen, too, one of those fine ladies who are afraid the sun might damage their precious skin. All in all, she doesn't sound like a tasty morsel for you." The surrounding men laughed in agreement as Gyles's preference in women was well known among his men, but one by one the laughter died in their throats.

  Serena waited at the bottom of the stairs, her head held high upon the delicate column of her throat as she fixed the source of the jest with an unwavering stare. Her pale blue gown clung to the unmistakable curves of her body and accented the creamy texture of her skin. Serena's blue eyes shot sparks at the man as she advanced to the table.

  "Pray go on with your story, sir knight, I am sure you had not reached the most interesting part." Although the words were sweetly spoken there was a challenge in Serena's tone and the man reddened and dropped his eyes to the table. A teasing grin played at the comers of Serena's mouth. "Ah, my good knight, did your mother never warn you that a tiny dog will leave the largest bite? But rest assured, if you are as brave with your sword as with your words, I shall never fear for my protection here at Camden."

  The circle of men guffawed loudly and the abashed knight—Serena learned later his name was Edward— loudest of all; at that moment pledging silently to protect the tiny mistress from any harm.

  " Tis your plan to win the loyalty of my knights with your womanly charms, Serena?" Gyles's eyes had turned cloudy in his anger and Serena shrank inwardly. "Beware then, for not all men are easy victims to a pair of swaying hips and rounded breasts."

  Serena's eyes widened in astonishment. "M'lord, you do me a great injustice! I seek no one's loyalty or love, for that must be freely given or it means naught. 'Twas not my wish to marry you, for that was taken out of my hands, but I wish only to make the best of the arrangement. So you beware, m'lord, for not all women
fall at the feet of an arrogant, strutting stallion!" Serena whirled from him to cross the hall and stand between Bryan and Richard, her color high and her temper flaring.

  She had left his side so quickly that Gyles had no time to give voice to the sarcastic reply that was on his tongue. Serena was not the insipid creature Beda had led him to believe; she had pride, a temper, and a cutting edge to her tongue. Somewhere in the back of Gyles's mind a warning rang out that his wife would not allow herself to be used as a mindless pawn. Even now her back was presented to him, and Gyles watched as she tossed off a goblet of wine without a pause. Gyles smiled inwardly; Beda had planned to retain control of the household after his marriage, but he had the feeling little Serena would change that if she had a mind to.

  "Serena, what happened? Gyles looks like he's ready to run someone through." Richard studied her angry face. "Did he insult you?" Richard's hand dropped to his sword.

  "Oh, for God's sake, Richard, don't be stupid! What are you planning to do, challenge him? He'd cut you down in a trice and then sit down to his meal. Ah, this whole situation is impossible!" Serena's knuckles whitened around the goblet.

  "Serena," Richard murmured as he drew her free hand to his lips. "Let me—"

  "Stop it, Lord Gyles is coming." Bryan deftly removed Serena's hand from Richard's. "I've no desire to see my sister made a widow before she's a wife, nor to lose my best friend. Serena, behave yourself," Bryan warned and then both he and Richard were gone.

  Serena's eyes narrowed wickedly, but she kept her back defiantly turned to Gyles's approach. She sensed his presence behind her and knew her defiance served only to anger him further, but she needed time to compose herself. If he hoped to make a fool of her before his household and guests, he would be mistaken. Serena drew a deep breath; her temper was now under control and she would show Gyles just how sweet and charming she could be if it killed her! What Serena didn't see was the possessive look in Gyles's green eyes as he watched the retreating back of her one-time suitor.