Ceinn-beithe, Scotland—April 1194
Ceinn-beithe, Scotland—April 1194“I think ‘tis a terrible idea,” Esmeraude complained.
The woman who had been Esmeraude’s nursemaid and later her maid grimaced, though she said naught more.
“’Tis terrible to petition for a spouse for me in this way and you know it well!” Esmeraude repeated the complaint she had made since her parents had sent their missive to France, inviting knights to compete in a bride quest for her hand. “Why, for the love of God, should I choose a husband in such a manner?”
“Because you will adore it,” Célie said tartly.
The two were in Esmeraude’s chamber, making the bed ready for the night. “Moi?”
“Moi?”Célie laughed and shook her head with affection. “Indeed, I can scarce imagine what you would enjoy more than to have several
