“I have not noticed any other woman. Nor have I seen you notice any other man.”

She felt herself flush. “Did you spend your last day practicing pretty words, Marcus? Do you think to sweet-talk me into a marriage that you cannot force?”

“Would that pretty words could sway you, Nesta. Nay, I have accepted the steel of your resolve. But do not deny me my pleasure in having you here beside me. If I am too familiar, talk of that will disappear when you do.”

That surprised her. “You agree that I can leave?”

He shrugged. “I have spoken with David. You said that you want to go back to Scotland, and the convent. He has agreed to escort you there.”

“I did not expect to leave so soon.” She tried to ignore the way his words had emptied her out. She told herself that her dismay was with the proposed destination. When she left here she did not want to go to Scotland at all.

“You will be safe with David. He and Sieg are worth ten men-at-arms.” He lowered his voice. “Word has come that your father’s men have been raiding again for some time now, in the marches and the midlands. I must see to that, as I am bound to, and it is better if you are well away from the strife. I cannot bring you to Scotland myself, or spare the men to escort you, so David’s offer is welcome.”

She did not know what to say. He had capitulated on all points, so she could hardly argue now that she should remain at Anglesmore until she hatched her own plan for escaping and joining Carwyn.

The steward came down the table, placing silver cups filled with new wine in front of them. Servants carried in a tray of cakes to finish the meal.

Nesta stared numbly at the preparations for the final course as the din in the hall flowed into a distant, seamless noise. Suddenly she felt totally separated from the happy household spread in front of her. She became isolated from everything and everyone.

Except Marcus. She felt him beside her as if their bodies touched. The deep knowing of him that had emerged in the lodge wove its spell, heightening her awareness of him to a poignant sensitivity.

Two mornings hence, he would give her what she wanted and send her away. Then he would be all but dead to her, like Genith. His generosity moved her, exposing profound regrets that she dared not examine.

He leaned toward her. Touching her chin, he turned her face to him. He lifted his wine cup to her lips. “You will like this. It is a special wine, sweet to flatter the taste of the cakes.”