Chapter 26

Caddoc leaned down and kissed her cheeks, kissing away the tears she hadn't noticed crying. "Are you well, sweetling? Did I hurt you?"

"Not at all." She beamed up at him, smiling with all the love in her heart. "Good morning, my love."

"Good morning, Lady Weir." He kissed the tip of her nose.

Georgie laughed. "Not yet. But soon, I promise. I'll be honoured to be your wife. First, though, I've figured out what to do about the village."

And so she had.

Caddoc watched in amazement as Georgie entered the village on his arm, just before noon. Wearing his housekeeper's spare gown, she held her bright head high as she looked at the gawking crowd that swiftly gathered.

"But..." The baker's wife, a young matron not much older than Georgie, ran up and gave her a hug. "I'm so glad you're safe! Thank the Lord!"

"Thank the dragon," Georgie said, returning her friend's hug. "He and I had quite a talk last night. He has some new wishes he'd like me to convey regarding the sacrifice."