IT WAS AS IF THERE WAS SOME CONNECTION BETWEEN THE TWO OF THEM, A SILVER THREAD THAT WOUND TIGHT – TIGHTER, DRAWING THEM TOGETHER . . .

‘If it is too soon . . .’ he murmured, as if suddenly unsure of his ground.

And her heart trembled for this man who was a warrior and medicus, and God alone knew what, and was yet made uncertain by this attraction between them. Their need was a tangible force in the chamber.

She shook her head and whispered, ‘No. I . . . I want this too.’

She felt the desire for him spreading through her veins. Even the tips of her fingers tingled. She was all eagerness, a map of melting curves and moist flesh. How shameless, how wanton she had become and she gloried in the fact. Her lip curving in a smile as old as time, she spread her arms in welcome . . .