Mellie's Books

How about a little something from Master of the Fleet?

“She never promised marriage. She never intended to marry, after what life had shown her. Men were animals, who could be amusing or entertaining. On the other hand, they could be violent and perverse, especially when drunk. As long as they were pursuing her, they were on their best behavior. Once they’d captured the prize, it would be a different story. Why take the chance?

“It became a game. How much could I get before it was time to move on?”

“You’re a greedy little whore, aren’t you?”

“That’s not fair! Once I left the travelers, I never slept with anyone again, until last night with you. After being forced to bed anything that came along, I have no interest in sex.”

“So you held out hope and took them for everything they had.”

“Yes. And I made a good living at it, as well as the sewing.”

“What happened this time?”

“You did. You had enough money to take me home, so I could gloat. I wanted to look down my nose at the people who’d said I could never leave and know they were wrong.

“But after a little too much wine, and a bit too much excitement, things got out of hand. You sounded too much like those I’d run away from years ago and I snapped.”

“What do we do now?” Richard asked. “Will you share my bed willingly as my wife? Or will you simply tolerate my advances and send your mind roaming?”

“We’re bound by oath, marriage, and blood oath, Richard. I must stay with you. As your wife, I must share your bed. Will I ever enjoy it? I doubt it.””