He slipped out of his shoes and fixed his eyes upon her. “Aye, I allow it was a heartfelt greeting and I am grateful, but I am weary and ravenous. So return to your warm next of slumber whilst I enjoy a repast, a warm bath and my bed.”
“Oh, let me!” She wound her fingers round his and the cold of his hand seeped into her. “Let me prepare your bath.”
He broke away. “My groom attends my needs. No lady performs such menial work.”
“But you are my husband and … we"d both enjoy it.” She didn"t need to force conviction into her tone.
“By the king"s orders I am your husband. Certainly not by the will of your heart. I have seen enough of love to know when it is true. This is certainly not. I shall not force the issue, nor will I loll about waiting for your heart to open to me. I know now your o
