“You are my husband.”
Raymond’s head snapped up, his face pale. He stood, then sat down again. “Nay…she is but—you cannot be—”
“Why not? ’Tis not the person that is important, but the pact. If I do not please you, that is regrettable, but be assured I find the prospect of wedding you no more appealing.”
“I did not expect you to find me appealing. I will force myself upon no one. Do as you will, go where you like.”
His defensive attitude surprised Ceridwen. Not knowing what to think, Ceridwen forged ahead. “Do I or do I not have your word that I may take up residence as your lady—in name only? You said you would not force—”
“I know what I said.” Raymond rose to his feet. “Once we are wed, I care not what you do. Just keep out of my way…!”
Beauchamp Besieged
Harlequin Historical #665
Harlequin Historicals is delighted to introduce new author ELAINE KNIGHTON
“Beauchamp Besieged is a triumph of a novel,
filled with the passion and pageantry of a bygone era,
heart-stirring romance and high adventure.”
—USA TODAY bestselling author Susan Wiggs
#663 TEXAS GOLD
Carolyn Davidson
#664 OF MEN AND ANGELS
Victoria Bylin
#666 THE BETRAYAL
Ruth Langan
Beauchamp Besieged
Elaine Knighton
MILLS & BOON
Before you start reading, why not sign up?
Thank you for downloading this Mills & Boon book. If you want to hear about exclusive discounts, special offers and competitions, sign up to our email newsletter today!
Or simply visit
Mills & Boon emails are completely free to receive and you can unsubscribe at any time via the link in any email we send you.
Available from Harlequin Historicals and
ELAINE KNIGHTON
Beauchamp Besieged #665
I have many people to thank,
but I particularly need to acknowledge:
Linda Abajian, who believed from the beginning.
Shannon Caldwell, whose medieval expertise and
beautiful longbows inspired me.
Liz Engstrom, Wes Hoskins,
Deanna Mather Larson and Doe Tabor,
who taught me all about writing and to never give up.
Teresa Basinski-Eckford, Gwyn Cready, Sue Greenlee,
Sharon Lanergan, Evalyn Lemon, Laurel O’Donnell,
Ann Simas, Outreach International Romance Writers,
Rose City Romance Writers and many other members
of Romance Writers of America who
offered me unfailing advice and support.
My agents, Ron and Mary Lee Laitsch,
and my editors, Tracy Farrell and Jessica Regante,
who gave this story a chance.
And James Pearson, who told me so…
Contents
Prologue
The Marches of England and southern Wales, 1180
“Slow down—I must lead!”
Raymond de Beauchamp ignored his brother Alonso’s snarling command. As of today