The Merchant of Dreams by Anne Lyle - Sample Chapters

“I–” He stared at Kiiren. ‘How did you know?”

“I have made much study of your people. I know man from woman, even if many of my companions do not. And like her, I am both in spirit.” He grinned.

“Besides, she does not smell like man.”

“I should hope not,” Mal replied with a laugh.

Then he recalled Kiiren’s earlier question. “No, we are not betrothed, nor even lovers. She will not give up her male garb, and French law is very harsh on the subject of masculine love.”

“But she is woman, not man.”

“And for that transgression also, she could be punished. Even if we were to move back to England, it would not be simple…”

Kiiren clicked his tongue. “My people were wise not to ally themselves with France. I think we would not be welcome there.”

“That is as may be, but it has nothing to do with my brother,” he said, unwilling to let the subject drop now he had dared to broach it. “May I take him back with me, at least for a while?”

Kiiren’s mouth curved downwards, and he shook his head. “I am sorry, my friend. I think this is not good time. Not yet.”

“Then my business here is done,” Mal said, getting to his feet. “I will seek passage to London in the morning.”