Though it became obvious she was Lady Laura’s daughter, meaning the lady was likely widowed, it was just as obvious that the child was fond of Michael. Hardly had the meal begun than she was on his lap, and though he continued to converse with Sir Canute, he broke bread and cut bites of cheese for her—and seemed not at all uncomfortable with the arrangement. When the little girl caught Beatrix watching, she stuck out her tongue as if offended by the smile offered her. Thus, it was surprising that, when the meal was done and the hall was being cleared, the child approached. Having stepped off the dais, Beatrix glanced at Squire Percival where he awaited her at the stairs and clasped her hands at the waist of the gown that had stirred so many to murmuring this morning. Obviously, it was a curious thing that the turning from night into day found her elevated from homespun to Perse. Beatrix looked from the little girl who neared to the castle folk who withdrew from the hall to begin their day.
