Page 13 of Lion and the Lamb: Easter

“Well then,” he said, his eyes drilling into her as he headed across the room toward her as if she were being stalked. “I suppose, mayhap I’d better do something about that.” He lifted her chin with one hand and his mouth came down on hers in a full kiss.

At first, she wanted to bite him, but then she started to relax. Her hand loosened on the blanket, causing it to fall to the ground and pool around her feet.

He pulled back slightly, still cupping her chin, staring directly into her eyes. “Did you like that, my sweet little lamb?”

“I – I –” She didn’t know how to answer.

“Perhaps going against the rules of the church and living a life of sin would be so much more exciting and rewarding for us than living like monks for the next six weeks. What do you say?” He kissed her again and her eyes closed. He pulled her closer, his hands skimming down her back, resting atop her bottom end. Then he squeezed and she jumped, her eyes opening wide. Pushing him away, she fell back, landing on her butt atop the stairs leading to the bed.

“Nay! I will not go against the word of God. Now, I warn you not to touch me again.”

“Hmph,” he grunted. “More like the word of a priest who had a wicked sense of humor. Now get dressed and meet me downstairs. I have a busy day and no time for distractions.”

He ripped open the door, meaning to leave, stopping when he saw Agnes with her fist raised, ready to knock.

“Good morning, my lord. I am here to attend to Lady Rachael’s needs,” said the woman.

“And who is going to see to my needs?” he snapped. “Tell me that, will you?”

“My lord? I don’t understand,” said Agnes, seeming very startled. “Did you want me to fetch your squire for you?”

“Nay! Out of my way,” he ground out, pushing past her and heading down the corridor at a good clip.

Agnes watched him go, then turned and walked into the room. “What was he talking about, my lady?” she asked Rachael.

Rachael knew exactly what he meant. He was talking about his need to couple, but she couldn’t tell Agnes that.

“He’s gone through a lot lately,” said Rachael getting to her feet. “With his father’s death and all, I mean. He doesn’t mean to sound so harsh. He’s just unsettled, I guess you could say.”

“Oh. I suppose so.” Agnes’ eyes darted over to the door and then back to Rachael again. “Is there anything you want to tell me, my dear? I mean, about last night?”

“Nay, I don’t believe so.” Rachael faked a smile. “There is really nothing to tell.” It wasn’t a lie. Nothing happened between them, and she wasn’t about to make something up just to satisfy the curiosity of her handmaid. “We must hurry, Agnes. My presence is expected at my husband’s side in the great hall. After all, I wouldn’t want to upset him.”