First and foremost I need to thank my editors DawnJ, aimtwoplease, and several others! This story wouldn't look as good as it does if it hadn't been for them.Any errors in this final draft are completely my fault. I know this is a rather short story but it is only part 1. I'm working on part 2 and will have it out just as soon as I can. As always, feedback is welcome. Please take a moment to vote for my story. Thank you! Ccollins2009
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Gerrard pulled the tanned leather away, from the window, to allow the first rays of early dawn to enter his sleeping chambers. Looking out over Tara he smiled to see his people preparing themselves for the day. If the weather held, the fishermen should be able to bring in a bountiful haul. Soon, the farmers would be sowing seed as well. Gerrard was pleased to see that his people were still prospering even under the threat of Roman invasion.
"The morning shines upon your face and graces it with a smile, Milord," called a soft feminine voice from behind him.
Gerrard turned to let his eyes feast on the fiery-haired woman lying unashamedly naked on his pelts. She had come to him the previous evening, long after the moon had risen into the night sky. He knew he should have turned her away, but as her cloak hit the floor, so had his rational thought. Today there would be hell to pay but this lass was worth it. The Gods knew he had waited long enough for her.
"Your father will know you're gone soon," Gerrard stated as his eyes dwelled upon her full firm breasts. He remembered too well how her nipples had hardened under his tongue.
"Aye." The woman spoke with a small smile on her face as she saw his manhood grow harder.
"What would you have me do, Edana? When Aidan finds you gone he'll know you've come here." Gerrard held no fear of Edana's father, Aidan, but he did not want a fight with his nearest neighbor and ally.
"I wish to stay with you, Milord," Edana whispered as she watched the storm of lust building in Gerrard's crystal blue eyes.
"Aidan will demand a handfasting ceremony to be sure. Is this truly what you wish, Edana? It will be for a lifetime if you handfast with me. You will live here in Tara and bear my children."
"Aye," Edana nodded, her tawny red hair fanned out around her on the soft pelts. At eighteen seasons, she had waited long enough to take a partner. Unlike many of the girls in Emain Macha, Aidan had given her the freedom to choose her partner.
Ignoring his nakedness Gerrard strode to the door and flung it open. His deep voice echoed throughout the wood and earthen fortress. "Barclay!"