Lord Greville's Captive...
From Chapter 4
"Grafton is mine by right of inheritance," Anne said, "and you have already
outstayed your welcome here, sir."
Simon made a slight
movement. His face was as hard as granite. "I require," he said, "that
you sign a document of military submission for Grafton on behalf of the
Royalist cause, Lady Anne."
The air between them
suddenly crackled with emotion, like a summer storm. Anne clenched her
fists at her side. "And if I refuse?"
Simon shrugged. "Rebel
commanders are hanged or shot or imprisoned," he said, "depending on the
clemency or otherwise of the victor."
"I am no rebel!" Anne
spat. "You are the one who has taken up arms against your anointed
King!"
Simon's expression was
impassive, but his tone flayed. "I have taken Grafton," he said. "It is
a military garrison. Therefore it is mine by right of conquest."
Anger and outrage ripped
through Anne to have her deepest fears confirmed in so callous a manner.
"You cannot do that!" She exclaimed. "You cannot simply march in and
take my land!"
"I have done so."
"So," Anne said, "what
is to become of me, Lord Greville? You have said that you would petition
your commanders to be permitted to Keep Grafton. Am I then to be married
off to some convenient supporter of your cause to get me out of the
way?"
"No," Simon said. "I
will take Grafton and I will take you too."
