Total pages in book: 43
Estimated words: 39004 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 195(@200wpm)___ 156(@250wpm)___ 130(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 39004 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 195(@200wpm)___ 156(@250wpm)___ 130(@300wpm)
“He loves to win and you are a prize to win.”
Elysia was far too close to tears and she did not want anyone to see her cry. “I need to go. Thank you for your honest words, Lendra.”
“I am here to help anyway I can,” Lendra said and gave Elysia’s arm a comforting squeeze before turning and hurrying back inside the keep.
Elysia wanted nothing more than to run home and cry, but she would not let herself. She could not keep giving into tears or her fears. Neither would do her any good, though how she would avoid marrying any of the three warriors worried her.
She pinched her cheeks, knowing she must look pale after learning what Chieftain Emory had planned for her and made her way to the village and the market. At least her problem with Clyde had been solved or she hoped it had. She did not think he would be pleased when he discovered what Chieftain Emory had decided.
Elysia made sure to keep a keen eye out for Saber as she bartered for a few quail eggs, offering her skill with a needle, that was quickly accepted. Relieved she saw no sign of him, she continued on. There was a bone with little meat on it, but adequate for her alone and the bone would make fine needles. She was able to secure it in exchange for tending a cut that was close to turning putrid. There were honey oat cakes that appealed to her grumbling stomach. Unfortunately, they were selling quickly for coin which meant the merchant would not be interested in a barter.
“It is good to see you out and about.”
Elysia turned with a smile to greet Moray. “I could not miss market day.”
“It is one day that brings everyone out and about,” he said with a nervous chuckle.
Moray was the clan arrow maker and a skilled one at that. He was quiet and humble, and her sister Annis once suggested that Elysia should consider marrying him. Though tall, his height did not overpower her, and he was slim. He had good features and kept himself presentable. He did possess attributes she preferred in a husband and she wondered if she should give the idea thought. Moray certainly would be a preferable choice to the three warriors.
Moray cleared his throat before saying, “I wanted to let you know that if you need anything, any help of any kind since you are alone now, you only need ask me.”
“That is very kind of you, Moray.” She took advantage of the moment to spend more time with him and see if a marriage to him might fit her. “I was about to return home. Would you be so kind as to walk with me?”
A broad smile captured his face. “I would be pleased to do so.”
He offered his arm and Elysia slipped hers around his.
They took only a few steps when a shout stopped them.
“Get your hands off Elysia. She is to be my wife.”
Elysia cringed hearing Clyde’s threatening voice and she did not blame Moray for hastily stepping away from her.
Clyde continued to threaten, swinging his fist as he approached them. “You want me to break your nose again?”
Elysia did not hesitate, she stepped in front of Moray. “I am not now nor am I ever going to be your wife. I would never marry a brute like you and Chieftain Emory agrees.”
Clyde’s face flushed so red, he looked like he would explode.
Elysia did not like that they had drawn the attention of the crowd, though she was glad she did not see Saber among the curious people.
Clyde finally spoke, his words filled with anger. “We will see about that.” He took quick steps to Elysia, his hand out, ready to grab her arm.
“Touch her and you will find yourself on your arse.”
Clyde turned and backed away at the sight of Bram and kept backing away as Bram walked toward him.
“You are not among the three men Elysia is to choose from for a husband. Keep your distance from her or you will answer to me and it will not only be your nose I will see broken,” Bram warned.
“I am going to speak to Chieftain Emory about this,” Clyde threatened as if it would make a difference.
Bram laughed. “By all means, go and waste your time.”
Clyde stomped away, muttering beneath his breath.
“Return to your business,” Bram ordered, sending a menacing glance at the crowd.
Elysia stepped closer to Moray who appeared frozen in fright. “Moray is walking me home.”
“Not anymore,” Bram said, turning a scowl on the trembling man.
Moray shook his head and ran off.
“That was not very nice of you,” Elysia scolded.
“And it was not nice of you making the man think he had a chance with you,” Bram said and offered his arm to her.