Page 66 of To Protect

“Do you think to garner his favor,” Eamon asked, “by handfasting and not taking Amalia as your wife?”

“I do.”

“I like her.”

That, from the empress.

Roland smiled at the formidable woman. “As do I, Your Grace.”

“When I take the crown, I shall pardon your family for your contribution to me.”

Roland could not tell, by his expression, whether he or Sir Eamon was more surprised by that declaration.

“That is very kind of you, Your Grace.”

“Since Eamon insists you are more skilled with a sword than he, continue to use that sword arm for my cause and tell your father to keep his men from the battlefield.” With that, she turned from them. “Good day, de Vere.”

“Good day,” he said to her retreating back.

He and Eamon stared at one another.

“Treat her well,” Sir Eamon finally said. “I have cared for the girl since she joined my daughter. Amalia is good and kind.”

“I know it well,” Roland replied.

“You’ve been given a boon this day. I suggest you speak to your father before returning to Blackwood.” He lowered his voice. “She does not know your brother was there.”

The empress seemed to know all, as did Eamon, so he was surprised to hear of it. But also wondered how the swordmaster knew. Before Roland asked, Eamon said, “I heard your cries. Saw your brother spared. He was lucky. Darien’s aim is always true.”

Roland knew it well. “I do not disagree with you.”

“Go. Take Amalia with you. We will meet again at Blackwood. It seems there is more work to be done.”

“Thank you for your blessing, Sir Eamon.” He thought back to their conversation and amended. “Do I have your blessing to make Amalia my wife?”

“Does it matter if I give it?”

Roland knew better than to answer that question.

Eamon made a face, but said, “I have witnessed with my own eyes you growing into a man these past days. She is good for you, and I believe you will be good for her as well. You have my blessing.”

Roland smiled broadly. Now he just needed one more to say the same.

“Thank you, sir.”

Eamon inclined his head in a small gesture of deference. “Lord de Vere.”

It was the first time his swordmaster had used that title, but Roland did not have an opportunity to think more on it as Eamon turned and left.

He and Amalia were going home.