Free The King's Mistress by Terri Brisbin Page B

believed her, but the woman nodded and rose to leave. Marguerite stood, as well, in spite of any personal feelings about her mother-by-marriage, for polite behavior had been ingrained in her from her earliest memories. And that behavior had helped her through many difficult and even awkward situations.
    â€œThe day is fair,” Lady Constance replied, nodding toward the sunshine that still filled the room through the window. “Take advantage of it then. I will send your servant to you, and your husband’s, as well.”
    She frowned at the words.
    â€œOrrick ordered Gerard to teach your maid English. ’Twill be easier if he guides you through the keep and village since he speaks both your language and ours.”
    â€œI thank you for your consideration, Lady Constance,” she said, becoming uncomfortable with the kindnesses being offered.
    Within a few minutes, she and her small entourage entered the yard and Orrick’s servant gave a continuous description of the people they passed and the various buildings they saw as they walked the length of Silloth within the walls to the east of the keep. Marguerite ignored the chatter as Gerard gave the English word for many of the sights around them. She could see that Edmee enjoyed the man’s attention as they moved through the yard.
    Silloth appeared to be an organized and orderedplace, with its people being in good health and of a lively disposition. Many of the manors and keeps she’d visited in Normandy were not as well kept as this. Lord Orrick was obviously a man talented at maintaining and administering his properties.
    Although Edmee and Gerard were still involved in conversation, Marguerite decided that she’d walked enough for this afternoon and announced her intent to return to her chambers. Feeling better, she dismissed Edmee and told her to stay.
    â€œMy lady, I will escort you back,” the manservant said.
    â€œNay, Gerard. It is a straight path back to the keep and one I can see plainly. Continue with your lessons with Edmee.”
    Edmee smiled coyly at the man and blushed. Marguerite understood what was happening here and nodded to them both. Clearly, the differences in their language and origins did not stop the growing attraction between them.
    She left them and circled the back of the keep instead of returning directly to it. There, in a smaller fenced-in yard, dozens of men and boys worked with weapons and with horses. Ah, the training yard. She could not see this side of the yard from her window. Walking closer, she watched as some of the more experienced among them worked with sword and shield. Unfortunately, Lord Orrick’s Scottish friend was one of them.
    The giant had stripped down to his trews and his long, red hair was tied back. He moved with a certain grace that belied his size and roughness of manners.A skilled warrior, she realized he must be formidable as an adversary in battle. Marguerite stood quietly for a few minutes, watching as he took down three opponents without even seeming winded. Then he noticed her, for he saluted her with his sword, drawing attention to her presence.
    Marguerite backed away a few steps as those around turned and bowed or curtsied to her. She waved their gazes back to the men and called out to continue. Most turned away and watched as the Scot prepared to face another challenger. Then the words drifted to her, loud enough for her and many to hear.
    â€œAye, I would give all the coins I have to get her into my bed,” a man said to the one next to him. “I bet you she’d be worth every bit of it.”
    His friend laughed. “Ah, but she’s not for the likes of you or me. She only wants a royal cock to pleasure her…or at least a noble one.” The men laughed heartily and others nearby snickered in agreement.
    She flinched at the ugliness and insult of their words. So, this was what Orrick’s people thought of her? As she began to turn away,