Samantha turned her face away in anger walking to the window to view the approaching army. "It is not I that you should seek to win approval from but rather the king, who shall soon be at our gates," She warned. "Remember that I did try to stop you from your madness. You have only yourself to blame should any punishment be bestowed upon you." "That I do," Jarod whispered heatedly. Samantha jumped at the sound of his voice so close to her ear, his warm breath causing tingles to race down her spine. Jarod had quietly moved closer to her while she looked away from him. His body brushed up against hers, and she was instantly filled with need. He grasped her shoulders, turning her toward him. He lifted her chin when her eyes refused to meet his. "You have forewarned me, yet I can only wonder if you would not feel any regret if I were to meet my death on the end of the king's noose." His eyes searched hers as if seeking the answer she would not give. He pulled her traitorous body against his, his strong hands working their magic as he held her tightly. "In case I never get this chance again." His lips came down roughly on hers, his tongue seeking refuge in her mouth. It was over too soon. Samantha swallowed, trying to regain what little composure she could summon. "Now, get dressed. We have a king to welcome to our castle." Jarod smiled. "And try not to fall asleep again. I do not think that he will forgive your tardiness as easily as I." Jarod released her abruptly. Samantha grasped the widow's ledge to steady her trembling legs. She watched as he strode from her chamber without so much as a backward glance.