Justina cocked an eyebrow at him. “You mean beside against you?”
Gawyn smiled full out.
Justina’s heart did a small leap. He was gorgeous. She loved the sound of his laughter; she loved the way the sun shone onto his brown hair creating gold highlights. “I suppose not.” She lifted her chin. “But I’m glad I had the training.”
Gawyn’s eyes narrowed slightly. “I’d like to see what you know. Perhaps I can add to your training.”
“Why?”
“I’d like to know that you are protected, that you can defend yourself. I know what’s out there. I know that not all of it is good.”
Her smile slowly faded. Like an assassin. She realized he was not speaking about the monster living in the castle, but about the barbarians bordering Acquitaine. “Like the Hungars.” Justina considered his offer. She could learn more defensive moves, maybe even teach them to Adam. But strangely, it wasn’t learning that was so appealing to her, it was the chance to be alone with Gawyn. She found it strangely thrilling. She agreed with a nod.
Gawyn’s gaze swept her face slowly like a gentle caress.
Justina felt a strange heat blossoming over her cheeks and she looked away at the view again.
“We’ve missed the evening meal, but I’m certain we can find food in the kitchens, not that Joy will be happy to see us, but she will make sure you have something to fill your stomach.”
Justina turned to him, opening her mouth to object, but he continued.
“I’d like to escort you around the castle, if you’d like. Unless you are too exhausted from the ride.”
Justina grinned. “I’m not sure Adam will sleep the entire time he is here.”
Gawyn nodded in understanding. His gaze lingered for a long moment on her lips.
Maybe too long. Justina’s lips felt fat and tingled. Warmth spread through her until all she could think about was what his kiss would feel like.
Gawyn swallowed and turned away from her, breaking the spell. “I’d best do that now. I will introduce you to Lord Damien and Lady Aurora on the morrow.”
