FORTY-TWO
As benches scraped and men rose to pay their respects to their new overlord, Melitta made her way to the back of the hall. She knew good manners decreed that she should congratulate George on his good fortune, and on his bride, but she wasn't sure that anything she said would be considered good manners tonight.
She climbed the stairs to her chamber, where she packed up the little she had, and decided to leave George a note. It would be hours before the dragonslaying lord would find it, by which time she would be well away, she was certain. What need did he have for her anyway? He had his bride, his lands, his lordship – everything he had ever wanted. Melitta fought down a sob. He didn't need and definitely didn't want her. After all, who'd choose a mere lady when he could have
