Page 56 of Ella’s Desire

“Aye.” The large man glanced to Ella and Brigid. “I dinna mean to interrupt the ladies from their perusal of the market day goods.”

“‘Tis fine,” Brigid offered. “We were preparing to leave soon.”

“Then I dinna want to delay ye any further.” He procured a wrapped parcel from the shelf. “Would ye mind delivering this to Nan for me?”

Ella reached for the parcel, but the man looked to William, clearly having meant to give it to him.

“I’m going to the kitchen when I get back.” Ella kept her hand out. “I do not mind delivering it.”

“Thank ye, my lady.” Edmund placed the wrapped meat in Ella’s palm with obvious hesitation. “Please tell her it’s a gift for her.”

“I will.” And with that they made their way back to the keep.

Ella was silent as they rode back, her thoughts on court, her future, Bronson, everything but the pleasant conversation going on between William and Brigid. As kind as Brigid was, and as open and honest, it was clear she did not want Ella and Bronson to go to Berkley Manor. That thought was in the forefront of Ella’s mind.

She had not even wed yet and already she felt as though she did not belong anywhere.

The hunt had been a good one. They had successfully taken down the boar and three stags, a meager amount by court standards, but a great accomplishment for two men with bow and arrows and a handful of hunting dogs.

There had been something natural and honest about how it had been done that appealed to Bronson. Far better to have nature everywhere rather than an army of horses, a mass of drunken courtiers and more dogs than there were beasts in the brush.

They entered the bailey to find Ella, Brigid and William having only just arrived from the village. Ella allowed Peter to assist her from the horse and smiled her thanks before looking up and seeing him. Her cheeks flushed in a way Bronson found immensely appealing. He missed the way he could make her cheeks go pink when they were alone together, fumbling in alcoves or loving the night away.

“What did you get in the village?” He indicated the parcel in her hand.

“Something for Nan from the butcher.” She lifted the wrapped item and tilted her head coyly. “He means to sweeten her toward him.”

He led her from the stables and into the castle. “Will it work?”

“You’re welcome to join me to find out.”

He held out his hand for the gift. “It would be my honor, my lady.”

She passed it in his direction, letting him heft the slight weight of it. The clean scent of outdoors and sunshine wafted from Ella’s hair and made Bronson’s blood go hot with longing.

A quick glance confirmed they were alone. “I’ve missed spending time together.”

Ella drew a soft intake of breath. Evidently, she had missed it too. He could practically hear her heartbeat quickening.

“When we are at court, we will be with one another every night.” He brushed his hand against hers.

“You were right about Brigid,” Ella said abruptly. “She does not want us to join her at Berkley Manor.”

They made their way down the hall and shifted slightly to allow a servant to pass. The savory scents of the kitchen grew stronger as they got closer.

Bronson frowned. He didn’t want Ella at Berkley Manor. At least, not until he was able to get it repaired and in good order. As it was, the place was nearly ready to collapse in on itself. “You asked her?”

“Nay, I implied I wished to visit with them there.” Ella hesitated in front of the kitchen door. “I do not think she wishes me to go. She became very quiet. I believe I may have caused offense.” Ella swallowed and looked at her feet.

“You did not offend.” Bronson lifted her chin with his fingertips. “Berkley Manor is ancient. I am sure she expects you would prefer something more comfortable.”

He ran his thumb over her sensual lower lip and Ella’s gaze softened in a way he knew all too well.

“More comfortable?” The corner of her mouth lifted. “Like court?”

“Exactly.” He leaned closer and nudged his chin against hers. “I will not force you to wed me, Ella. Tell me when you are ready and that is when we will wed.”

She drew in a soft breath. “Truly?” she asked against his lips.