Page 99 of The Noldrin Witch

Elise went back to Kurt slowly without protest.

It was one of those moments when reason had long since left the room, and one could think only of the immediate pleasures the body craved. Elise remained there, wrapped in Kurt’s strong arms. She had never felt so small as beneath the strength of his hands. She answered in kind, her own hands exploring the firm contours of his back. The more she melted into his embrace, the more she caught his sweet scent. It was as though they had known each other for a lifetime, and yet she could have spent an eternity in his arms.

The entire pavilion seemed to grow warmer, so steeped in passion that it was only a matter of time before nature closed the gap between yearning and absolute bliss.

Unfortunately, the delightful moment was short-lived as Morgaine swept the curtain aside in one brusque motion.

The witch, quick-witted and a firm believer in the oldest instincts of mankind, seemed to regret having to interrupt such promising proceedings.

“We have to leave!” she ordered, striding toward the bed.

Elise jumped up and hurried to Morgaine’s side.

Morgaine took the duke’s face in both hands, tugged lightly at his cheeks, and turned his head from side to side.

“Did he drink all the potions?”

Elise nodded.

Morgaine closed her eyes and began to chant,

“By earth below and sky above,

Heal this handsome lord, so dearly loved.”

“Let Elise stay. I know everything,” Kurt pleaded with Morgaine.

“It can’t be,” the witch replied. “Your enemies are on their way. You must reach an agreement. This territory is lost to you.”

“How do you know?”

“I know, and that’s all I can tell you. You won’t win this battle. Do as I say if you wish to live long enough to see Elise again.”

Shock swept across Kurt’s face.

After a moment of silence, he murmured, “I will.”

“Good,” Morgaine said, turning to Elise. “Say your farewells, but make them quick.”

Elise hurried to Kurt’s side.

“Please do as Morgaine says.”

Kurt nodded, taking Elise’s hand. “Promise me you’ll be there when I return.”

“I promise.”

Kurt’s grip tightened around her fingers before he pressed a kiss to the back of her hand.

The clamor of steel grew louder outside, and men began shouting for the Duke of Dornheim.

Elise let go of Kurt’s hand, for something deep within her told her this would not be the last time they stood together.

Morgaine seemed to struggle for patience, but the moment Elise rejoined her, the urgency in the witch’s voice made it plain they could wait no longer.

“It’s time to go.”

*****