Lord Raymond practically dragged Tess down the aisle. She struggled, and the whole scene brought gasps from the seated guests. “They will pay for your defiance.” He snarled quietly to her, and he pushed Tess to her knees before the priest. The ancient priest stood before the congregation in his dress robes frowning upon the scene. “Is there a problem my child?” He asked in a low, raspy voice. “Oh, yes, your Holy Father.” Tess whimpered and crawled to his feet, clutching his robes she kissed the hem. “Please, Father, do not go through with this union.” She begged. Lord Raymond grabbed Tess by the waist and pulled her back, forcing her to kneel in her place. He laughed casually and smiled his most charming smile. “Young brides,” he chuckled, “s

