Read Online Jennifer August by Knight of the Mist - Free Book Online Page A

impertinence. “What passes between He and I is not of your concern, priest.”
    The clergyman cackled, white brows disappearing into the thick shock of hair atop his head. “A good match, indeed. Where is Lady Stirling?”
    “Here, Father,” Millane’s bold voice called out.
    Quinn turned and his breath stilled. Stirling walked with measured grace through the well-wishers, nodding as she passed each row. Clad in a gown of silver mist that clung to her high breasts and molded her tiny waist, she appeared ethereal, almost unreal. A gauzy veil of the same bewitching silver capped her upswept blonde hair and rippled down her back. A small smile curved her lips and her golden eyes bore into his, holding him captive. He stepped forward, offering his arm, fiercely glad when she showed no hesitation in her acceptance.
    “You are enchanting, demoiselle.”
    She inclined her head, offering him that same soft smile. Father Tiburon began the morning service, urging them all to remember this day as a joyous new beginning in the proud history of the keep. After a short mass, he motioned Quinn forward.
    “Kneel my son, and receive the blessings bestowed upon you today.”
    Obediently, Quinn sank to his knees and bowed his head.
    “Quinn de Trefoid, by the benevolence of King William and the reverent hand of God, I hereby declare you to be the true and rightful lord of Falcon Fire, have mercy upon your soul.” The priest circled him, shaking droplets of water on his head and shoulders. Then, heavily scented smoke from the incense filled scepter poured over him. “Rise, Quinn of Falcon Fire,” the priest commanded, “and greet your people.”
    Quinn stood and faced them, astonished at the mingled looks of relief and admiration he saw. A loud cheer ripped through the vestibule, and the horns behind him blared several joyful notes of welcome, followed immediately by a hushed silence. He waited tensely.
    Father Tiburon stepped up next to him. “This day has a twofold cause for celebration.” The priest motioned to Stirling , who rose and moved forward. “Join hands and kneel,” he commanded them. “Unto you, Lord Quinn, I bestow in marriage the prize of Falcon Fire, Lady Stirling. To you she brings fertile lands, loyal followers, plentiful stores and a superior army of knights. Do you accept her offering?”
    “Aye.” Quinn lightly squeezed Stirling ’s cold fingers, tamping his elation. So close.
    The priest turned to his mistress. “To you, Lord Quinn brings the protection of his name and army, bountiful riches and restores your titles. Do you accept his offering?”
    “Aye.”
    Quinn gave a small sigh of relief at her firm response. ‘Twas done at last.
    “Lord Quinn, have you a symbol to settle upon Lady Stirling so that all people will know she is your wife?”
    “Aye.” Quinn withdrew the heavy gold ring he’d purchased on a whim nearly four years before. He realized as he slid the band onto her finger, the yellow tiger diamond matched the color of Stirling ’s eyes exactly.
    “And do you Lady Stirling wish to present your Lord with a token of your, uh, affection?” The priest cleared his throat and gazed at Stirling with wide-eyed innocence as Quinn glared at him. Her response and soft touch regained his attention.
    “Most certainly, your Worthiness.” Keeping her gaze on his hand, she pushed a silver and ruby ring onto his finger. “The bearer of this ring is recognized as the lord of Falcon Fire and shall be treated with respect and honor as such.” He did not know if her loudly spoken words were meant to convince her or her people.
    The priest swung the incense over both of them. “I declare you to be wed, a permanent and binding union which no man shall break under punishment from God and William, King of England. Rise Lord and Lady of Falcon Fire and seal your bond.”
    They stood as one and faced each other. Gently, Quinn cupped Stirling ’s silky cheek and lowered his head. He kissed her