Kathleen E. Woodiwiss

Perhaps I have misjudged you, Christopher,_ Erienne commented as he whirled her about in a wide sweep of the ballroom. __ow so, my love?_ He searched her face for some hint of her meaning. __ou watch over me as closely as Stuart,_ she stated and grew thoughtful. __erhaps more so._ __ have not given up hope that you will someday become mine, madam, and I choose to safeguard against those who would take you from me._ __hat of Stuart?_ She raised a lovely brow as she awaited his answer. It was a long moment before he gave a reply. __n the ways of love, I do not consider Stuart as much a threat as an inconvenience._ __n inconvenience?_ she queried. __ shall have to deal with him in time, and that will be the difficult part. I cannot dismiss the man without rousing your hatred again. __is a most perplexing problem._ __ou amaze me, Christopher._ Erienne shook her head, somewhat shocked by his casual disregard of her husband. __ou truly amaze me._ __he feeling is mutual, my love._ His voice came as a soft caress and sent an eddy of sensations spiraling down through the core of her being.-Erienne & Christopher

You deny our vows. You deny my rights. You abuse my pride and leave me nothing of yourself. You send me from you on some lackey's strength. You betray me at every turn." Shanna met his glare and hurled a fierce reply. "You took my heart and set your fingers firm around it, then, no doubt delighted at your success, you rent it with unfaithfulness.""Unfaithfulness is only from a husband. You play the same to me and yet do say I am no spouse.""You plead you are my husband true and spite the suitors come to woo me.""Yea!" Ruark raged. "Your suitors flock about your skirts in heated lust, and you yield them more than me."Shanna paused before him, rage etched upon her face. "You're a churlish cad!""They fondle you boldly and you set not their hands away from you.""A knavish blackguard!""You are a married woman!""I am a widow!""You are my wife!" Ruark shouted to be heard over the rising wind outside.

Do I perceive a softening in your heart for me, damoiselle?" He laughed at her scowl. "Beware maid. I will tell you true. After you will come another and then another. There are no strings that can tether me to any woman. So guard your heart.""My lord, you greatly exaggerate your appeal," she replied indignantly. "If I fell anything for you, 'tis hatred. You are the enemy and you are to be despised as such.""Indeed?" He smiled slowly into her eyes. "Then tell me, damoiselle, do you always kiss the enemy so warmly?