Page 71 of A Knight With Mercy

He dropped his head in embarrassment. He had committed a crime against the church that would send any woman in her right mind running in the other direction. He couldn’t blame her. He had believed he was doing the right thing, the king’s order. He would take it back if he could. But he couldn’t. “I’m sorry for what I did.”

“You shouldn’t be! You were magnificent. If it wasn’t for you, I would still be the bishop’s prisoner.”

His eyebrows rose in shock and he finally saw the teasing smile on her shapely lips.

“I know what you did. And you have more than redeemed yourself in my eyes. You saved us. I couldn’t ask for anything more.”

Richard shrugged. “You could ask for someone with more coin. Or perhaps someone who isn’t hated by almost every villager in the realm.”

“Almostevery villager. But not by me.” She took his hand into hers. “I’ve found you rather attractive since the first moment I saw you.”

Richard grinned. “You thought I was handsome.”

“I thought you wereveryhandsome. The most handsome man I’ve ever seen.”

“It must have been the bruises on my face. Or my swollen lip.” She brushed a lock of hair from his forehead. “Mercy. I would have you as my wife but think on your decision. I am a wanted man.”

“I am a wanted woman.”

“Wanted only by me. They know nothing of your part in the bishop’s death. You are still innocent.”

“I am far from innocent.”

“I will take you with me to Knaresborough Castle. We will be safe there. Hugh is a friend.” He framed her face in his hands. “I love you, Mercy.”

“Are you certain?” she asked hesitantly.

“More than anything in my life. Can you open your heart to a man like me?”

“I already have. I love you with all my heart.” She stood on the tips of her toes to press a kiss to his lips.

When she would have ended the kiss, Richard bent and held her close, deepening the kiss. Lord, he loved her. How had he become so lucky? She had shown him what forgiveness was. She had shown him mercy.

The End