Page 20 of Ladybird

“I apologize, Lady Sage.” Hunter stepped forward and took her hand, bringing it to his mouth in a kiss. “I am honored to be in the presence of the lady of the castle.”

Sage giggled and looked over at Regina. Regina wasn’t smiling.

“This is my nephew, Luke.” Hunter released Sage’s hand and nodded toward Luke.

“Nice to meet you, Luke,” said Sage, sounding so friendly and as if she were going out of her way to be nice. “Isn’t it a beautiful day?”

“I guess. Why does it matter?” Luke crossed his arms and continued to kick at the dirt. “I have to spend all day watching dumb birds.”

“Luke, that’s enough,” warned Hunter. “Show some respect. What are you thinking?”

“I don’t know what I’m thinking. I’m so hungry that I can’t even think.”

“Didn’t you eat this morning?” Sage asked the boy.

“Nay. My uncle wouldn’t let me.” Luke glared at Hunter. “I can’t even show anyone my sword. This isn’t any fun at all.”

“It’s not supposed to be fun,” Hunter told him. “We’re here for a purpose and don’t forget that. Lady Regina, we are ready to work.”

Regina looked over at Sage and they exchanged glances. Regina had told her sister-by-marriage all about Hunter and how handsome he was. She also told him that Hunter was having trouble bringing up the boy on his own.

“There has been a change in plans,” she announced.

“Really? What, Lady Regina?” asked Hunter.

“Since Luke is too young to be training as a falconer, I’m afraid he’ll only be a distraction to the birds.”

“So, what are you saying?” asked Hunter, looking confused.

“I suggest that during Luke’s stay here he finds a different job to do.”

“You do?” Luke looked up, suddenly interested. “Like what?”

“Oh, I don’t know. What do you think, Sage?”

“Let me see.” Sage tapped her chin with the tip of her finger. “Is there anything you like to do?”

“I like to practice fighting with my sword. Can I practice with the knights?” Luke’s eyes opened wide in excitement.

“Luke, stop it,” warned Hunter. “The knights don’t want you getting in their way.”

“No one seems to want me.” Luke was back to being difficult.

“Lady Sage, isn’t Robin going to be training his knights in the practice yard today?” asked Regina. “Mayhap Luke would like to watch.”

“Would I!” Luke was so excited his brows soared and a smile spread clear across his face. “How do I get there?”

“I can take you,” Sage offered. “But first we’ll need to stop in the great hall and get a little something to eat. I’m finally feeling better but only if I eat a little something every few hours.”

“We’re going to eat? I’m hungry, too! Come on, let’s go.” Luke took Sage by the arm and started to pull her toward the keep.

“Remember, you’re just watching the knights and that is all,” Hunter called out after him. “Leave the sword in your room and stay out of their way. Do you hear me?”

“I hear you,” grumbled Luke, hurrying toward the keep with Sage.

Hunter looked over at Regina. “Thank you.”

“For what?” asked Regina, her eyes dancing with amusement.