Crowning Glory

Baron Bartholomew cracked open the door of his daughter's bedchamber. Like the Lord's prayer, it was a dawn ritual he had developed after the of his eldest son. He gazed upon the young woman in proud silence, watching her chest rise and fall under the rich silk sheets he had brought back from Palestine. Christine looked safe while locked in her dreams. Her long dark brown hair spread like angel wings either side, he thought her a sleeping angel. A result of love and beauty untainted by the cruel world outside the castle walls.

From a seat by the window, the oldest of Christine's ladies-in-waiting, nodded to him silently. Bartholomew nodded back politely as he considered the young woman attending his only daughter. It was time to see this young woman wed to a man of her own. Like Christine's new girl, Mariangel, Katheryn had come to his household at sixteen and had been a good companion to his daughter for the past five years. She was a solid young woman with decent curves and an ordinary face; not a beauty, but she would make one of his knights a fine wife and mother to his sons. He would have to see to it ...

A call from the watchman caught Bartholomew's attention. Christine began to stir, and Bartholomew quietly closed the door his face hardening as he turned his thoughts to what awaited him. Today he had a most unwelcome guest, but he had but to host.

A note from the Spoox: I’m a friendly author and strongly urge readers and fellow writers to get involved. I have a natural story arch for this sordid tale but open to ideas. Authors who can contribute can manage their own threads and take them in their preferred direction. Just drop me a message if you want more information.

Disclaimer**: All characters who are involved in sexual activity are above the age of consent. **