Entreat Me

by Grace Draven

“It’s a sad world when the only man doing the swiving in this castle is rickety Ambrose. You and your boy are lucky you can get your breeches on these days much less walk straight. “Be quiet, old woman. I’ve had enough torment today, and the flux isn’t even upon us.”

“I’m also more pleasant-natured than most people think.” The hand stroking her back paused, and he snorted. “Now that just makes you a teller of tall tales, Mistress Duenda.” He swatted her lightly on one bare buttock. “I suspect you strop your tongue every morning before you get dressed.”

She gasped when he yanked her into a hard embrace. “A kiss before I go, dragonslayer.” He leaned in to capture her lips with his. She clapped a hand over his mouth. “Ballard,” she whispered furiously, “we don’t have time for this.” He pushed her hand away. “We’ll make time, Louvaen.”