Forbidde to Love You

Chapter Seven — The Aftermath II

Serena remained standing, her heart pounding. She had come to watch her brothers, that had been true. She had cheered for Ewan. She had screamed for Alexander. She was proud of both of them either way. But when William disappeared through the gates with his father supporting him, Serena's eyes remained fixed on the place where he had vanished. There was admiration there. Worry. And something dangerously close to guilt.

Because she knew. She had seen the change in him. The moment he realized she was watching was the moment his restraint disappeared.

He had fought harder to impress her, and now he was leaving the field barely able to stand.

"Serena."

She turned as Alexander was approaching.

His armor was scratched, his hair disheveled, and a bruise was already beginning to form along his jaw. He followed her gaze toward the gate. Toward William. And his expression changed.

"You were watching him."

Serena's stomach dropped. "I was watching the match."

"You weren't watching me."

"I was. And I'm pretty sure I lost whatever little respect these pompous lords have for me when I shouted after you nearly broke your neck."

Alexander's mouth twitched. "That's not the same thing."

Serena said nothing as Ewan joined them. He looked from Alexander to Serena. Then toward the gate. Then back at Serena.

His eyebrows rose. "Oh."

"Don't", Serena groaned.

"I didn't say anything", Ewan grinned.

"You were about to."

"I was thinking it."

"That's worse."

Alexander folded his arms. "Beaufort fought like a madman."

Ewan nodded. "He did."

Alexander looked at Serena again. "And I think I know why."

Serena's face burned. Before she could answer, their mother called from the stands.

"Children!"

Ewan laughed. "Saved by Lady Katherine."

Serena glared at him. But as she followed her brothers from the field, she looked back one last time. The tournament banners still waved above the arena. The crowd was still celebrating.

And somewhere beyond those gates, William Beaufort was being scolded by his father for nearly destroying his own arms to win a match.

Serena smiled despite herself. Then the smile faded. Because beneath the excitement, one thought refused to leave her mind.

William had looked at her before the match. And he had looked for her after it. She didn't know what frightened her more. That she had noticed—

or that she wanted him to do it again.