A Knight for All

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Edward, Baron Rycliffe, pulled the hood of his cloak tighter around his face, praying it was enough concealment. He’d dressed in simple attire, more common to villagers than the noble clothes he generally wore—a plain brown tunic, braies and hose with ankle boots. None in the tavern would expect to see their lord there and therefore, at least Edward hoped, would not recognize him.

From the corner of the tavern where he sat, Edward could easily see most of the patrons. He had a clear view of the entrance. It already seemed like he’d waited hours for the man to appear, though in truth Edward knew he had not been waiting long. He was nervous, jumping at every little noise around.

Since his marriage to Lady Katherine three months earlier, Edward had dared not give in to his darker needs. He had fallen in love with Katherine when he’d met her last year when she’d been newly widowed. Each day he loved her more and their passion filled nights fulfilled his every desire. Almost.

Edward had not shared with Katherine that he craved the touch of men also. He suspected she might know it because before they met Edward knew there was some talk amongst the noblemen of the court, though Edward had tried to quiet the talk as soon as he’d heard it. She had not brought it up, though, so he could not be sure. In any event, he’d tried very hard not to give in to those tortured desires.

The door of the tavern opened with painful slowness. At least to Edward. He shifted on the bench, his cock already half hard in anticipation.

It might not even be him.

Edward’s gaze stayed on the door as it swung in. A figure of a man appeared in the doorway, shadowed by the gloomy, barely lit entrance of the tavern. He held his breath. He could not quite tell just yet.

The man took several steps inside, clearly turning his head left and right, looking for someone. Looking for him.

Edward exhaled. Gregory had arrived. Though he, too, was cloaked to conceal his identity, Edward recognized the man’s broad back and a wisp of his blond hair sticking out from the hood. Edward’s entire body felt engulfed by fire. It had been so long since he’d seen his former lover. Years since they’d even seen each other let alone shared forbidden touches.

He gestured to Gregory, who instantly noticed and made his way toward Edward’s table in the corner. Nearing him, Gregory dropped the hood of his cloak to his shoulders and flashed a beautiful welcoming smile at Edward.

“Gregory, you came,” Edward said softly as Gregory sat on the bench directly across from him. They grasped hands over the table, for a moment allowing their affection for each other to shine in their gazes.

The handsome blond man grinned, his blue eyes sparkling. “Aye, of course I came. As soon as I received word of the tournament held in your honor I knew I had to take part.”

Edward’s face heated. He hadn’t wanted the tournament, but his wife had been insistent. “‘Twas Lady Katherine’s idea for my birthday.”

“I know. A wonderful idea, too. In truth, I originally thought to surprise you and enter as an unknown knight.”

Edward, though loathe to lose his grasp of Gregory’s hands, was conscious of those in the tavern watching them. Not wanting unnecessary speculation for either of them, he released his hold and folded his hands in front of him. “I am glad you sent word ahead. It has been too long, Gregory.”