#Medieval Monday ~ A HIGHLAND MOON ENCHANTMENT
We wrap Medieval Monday with my own final excerpt from A Highland Moon Enchantment. I hope you've enjoyed these snippets and found some new authors to read. Our theme of "Author's Choice" was fun. Did you guess mine? It was a Medieval Feast theme. Here is my final segment. Don't forget to leave a comment, too. I will announce the winner of a signed print copy of my book by the end of this week.
And thank you all for your kind words about my story. They were truly appreciated!
Excerpt from A Highland Moon Enchantment:
They entered the circle and bowed to the dancers. The circle then expanded to include Desmond and Ailsa. Tapping her feet, she twirled and moved to the center with the other women. Grasping hands, they flowed with the melody, slowly and effortlessly until she broke free, and her steps led her back to Desmond. His hand brushed hers and they met in the middle, bowed, and circled the other. His eyes never left hers, drawing her into his web of only them. She danced around him, aching to touch him. The heat of his gaze stole her breath.
Onward they danced, twirling and swaying around the hall. Laughter filled Ailsa, along with Desmond’s touch. As the minstrels ended their song, she dipped a curtsy to all.
Fiona handed her a cup of ale. “You were wonderful out there. I’ve never witnessed my brother dancing. He’s good.”
“Thank ye.” Ailsa drained the cup, relishing the cool liquid.
Desmond returned holding two plum tarts in his hand. “By the Gods, these are delicious. Who made them?”
Fiona tried to snatch one from his hand. “Brigid. They’re a favorite of Duncan’s.”
He shook his finger at her. “Nae. I brought one for Ailsa.”
Fisting her hands on her hips, Fiona pouted. “But none for your beloved sister?”
“Ye wound me.” Handing her one, he added, “Ailsa and I will just have to share this one.”
Pleased with his gesture, Fiona kissed him on the cheek. Taking the offering, she was about to take a bite, when Alastair approached from behind her.
“’Tis good to see ye are eating.” He placed his hands around her waist.
She laughed when he nibbled on her neck.
“Come, Desmond. Let us eat our fare away from the lovers,” suggested Ailsa, tugging at his arm.
Snorting, he complied and followed her out of the hall and near the entrance. When he held the treat out to her, Ailsa took a bite.
Closing her eyes, she savored the sweet fruit and pastry. “Mmm…”
“’Tis good.” He whispered softly.
Desmond’s tongue teased the edges of her mouth, and snapping her eyes open, Ailsa yearned to have him kiss her.
“Go and announce to your father that ye are retiring for the night.”
“’Tis too early,” she argued in a low voice.
“Nae. He is most likely deep in his cups and enjoying himself.”
She nodded and started to move forward when he grasped her hand. “I will follow ye within the hour.” Kissing her wrist, he released her and leaned against the door, devouring the rest of the tart.
Licking her lips, Ailsa started forward and paused. She glanced over her shoulder. “And where am I to go?”
His smile became seductive. “To my chamber and into my bed.”
Blurb:
You first meet this warrior in Dragon Knight’s Axe, Order of the Dragon Knights, Book 3
Irish warrior, Desmond O’Quinlan has never surrendered his heart to any woman. He has no wish to have his soul tortured by love. Yet, the moment he locks gazes with Ailsa, his fate is destined for an adventure he never fathomed. He may have battled alongside a Dragon Knight, but his greatest challenge will come from within his own heart.
Ailsa MacDuff, a warrior among her clan, has no desire to have a man chain her to a life of obedience. However, that is before she meets Desmond. The temptation to allow this warrior inside her heart is a risk she dares to take, but one that could lead to a future of emptiness and sorrow.
When betrayal looms from within, the battleground of love is no match for these two warriors. Can the power of a Highland full moon be strong enough to unite or destroy them?
