Dumfounded, Claudia found she had to close her mouth as she stared at Celadus. I can't believe someone so young and handsome is interested in me...I must be near twice his age! the thought tormented her, along with thoughts of he might be more interested in her estates, holding, and coffers then he was her. As doubts plagued her, she felt him gently take her hand.

"Claudia, I have worshiped you from afar for three years. You are the reason I agreed to sponsorship with your house. I have desired you since the first time I set eyes on you in the square, but you were married at the time." He slid his hand sensually around her, caressing her fingers, making her inner core begin to swell and weep at the though of more than just the touch of his hand.

"You have been a widow now for two years, the period of mourning has been over for a year, you are free to marry again. And since I am a free-born volunteer, I am able to marry." He looked deep into her eyes then and whispered, "And I wish to marry you..."