Taming Her Irish Warrior. Michelle Willingham

a more fitting meal there, for you and the others. You must allow me to do so, as your hostess.’

      Despite the gracious offer, Ewan was glad to see that Katherine’s smile seemed to be hiding annoyance. Good. He didn’t want her pairing up with any of these men.

      John of Ceredys walked towards Honora, his hands outstretched in greeting. Honora didn’t move, keeping her grip upon the blade at his side. The simple touch made him aware of her, of her sudden reliance upon him. He made a silent vow to keep her safe.

      He’d never seen Honora this agitated, and he couldn’t quite tell whether it was fear or rage. Either way, it was best if Ceredys kept his distance.

      ‘Lady Honora. I have missed the pleasure of your company at Ceredys.’ The Baron tried to step around him to greet her, but Ewan remained fixed in his position.

      ‘I don’t believe the Lady Honora wishes to speak with you.’ Ewan drew his sword slightly, in a silent threat.

      ‘And what does the lady say for herself?’ John demanded.

      ‘Lord Ceredys.’ Her voice was clear and steady, showing no fear. ‘You’ve made a long journey.’

      Her body tensed, as though she were about to attack the man. Ewan had never seen her this way, as though she wanted to murder Ceredys. Why? What had the Baron done?

      Katherine intervened again. ‘I really do want to return.’ She began packing up the basket, and looked at Ewan in a plea for help.

      ‘We’ll go, as you wish,’ he acceded.

      But as she moved towards her horse, Ewan made it clear to every man there that he would not let any harm come to the women. He didn’t miss the anger kindled in Lord Ceredys’s eyes.

      Nor the rage that Honora tried to hold back.

      John had followed her.

      Honora clenched her fist around the grip of her dagger, wishing to God that it wasn’t a mortal sin to kill a man. Just having him near made her skin crawl.

      She’d remained close to Ewan and Katherine for the rest of the day, though she felt badly for interfering with their courtship. John was not to be trusted, even with a castle full of servants and guards.

      After the evening meal, she rose and followed Katherine to their chamber. As she passed the men seated at the trestle tables, her senses went on alert. It took a great deal of composure not to draw her weapon. Especially when John’s hungry eyes locked upon her.