Connie Mason Read Free Page A

hurts began to heal. His brain was so scrambled he could recall naught of what had happened prior to his waking up in a strange bed. He didn’t even know where he belonged.
    One day, despite his befuddled brain, Falcon decided it was time to get out of bed and test his legs. He sat on the edge of the bed until his head stopped spinning and then pushed himself to his feet. He wobbled, found his balance and took a step. When he didn’t fall flat on his face, he took another, and another.
    While Falcon tested his legs, Mariah sat in her husband’s chamber, discussing the wounded man.
    “Is he young?” Edmond asked.
    “I believe so. Though his face is still somewhat swollen, he has the body of a young man.”
    “Is he comely?”
    Mariah shrugged. “It’s difficult to tell, but I believe his face will be pleasing to look upon once the swelling recedes.”
    Edmond’s eyes narrowed thoughtfully. “How fortunate that he should come to us now.”
    Mariah bristled. “Do not even think it, Edmond. We have no idea who this man is. He may have a wife and children awaiting him somewhere. He could be a common criminal.”
    “Do you think he is a criminal?”
    “Nay,” Mariah admitted. “I would describe him as a fighting man, mayhap a soldier or knight.”
    Edmond struggled to his feet. “I wish to see the man who has captured your fancy.”
    “Edmond! I have done no more than care for a man near death.”
    He resumed his seat. “Forgive an old man’s musings, my dear. Find out his name. Perhaps I know his people.”
    When Mariah entered Falcon’s chamber a short time later, she found him leaning against the bedpost, panting as if he’d just run a great distance.
    “ ’Tis too soon for you to be out of bed,” she scolded. “You must remain in bed until Edwina says you are well enough to leave it.”
    “I cannot regain my strength if I lie in bed all day. There is someplace I need to be, though I cannot name it.”
    “The only place you need to be right now is in bed. Let me help you.”
    “I can help myself. Turn away, lady; I am unclothed.”
    As if suddenly aware of Falcon’s state of undress, Mariah turned her back.
    Slowly Falcon eased his way into bed and pulled the coverlet up to his waist. “You can turn around now.”
    Mariah turned. “Are you hungry?”
    “Famished. How long have I been here?”
    “Seven days.”
    His eyes widened. “Seven days? Truly?”
    The swelling around his eyes had receded, and for the first time Mariah saw their color. They were golden and compelling, not dark as she had imagined. Distracted by her discovery, Mariah took a moment to recall his question. “Truly, sir.”
    “You called me sir. Do you not know my name?”
    “You have yet to provide one.”
    Falcon stared at her. “I was hoping you could tell me.”
    Mariah gasped. “What are you saying?”
    His eyes glowed with desperation. “I recall naught before the moment I woke up in this bed. I hoped you could help me remember.”
    Mariah shook her head, saddened by his plight. “I have never seen you before you were brought to the castle, grievously injured and near death. Mayhap your head injury resulted in a temporary loss of memory. I have heard of such a thing happening. I’m sure you will remember in time. I will consult with Edwina about your memory loss.”
    Disheartened, Falcon sank against the pillow and closed his eyes. “Whenever I try to think, my head feels as if a thousand demons are bedeviling me. Of what use am I? I can’t even use the chamber pot without help.”
    “I’ll send a manservant to help you. Do whatever it is you need to do while I fetch you something to eat.”
    “Wait! I have a question.”
    Mariah turned away from the door. “What is it?”
    “Who are you?”
    “I am Mariah of Mildenhall.”
    The door opened. Edmond tottered in, assisted by two servants. They eased him into a chair and left to await him outside the chamber. He studied Falcon for several minutes, then