The Coverlet

by George Monk
2013
ebook available from Amazon

She had one lasts thing to do, the embroidered coverlet for her lover’s bridal bed. In a few days time Sir Gruron and his bride, La Coudre, The Hawthorn Tree, would come home after their marriage. Then La Frayn, The Ash Tree, her duties done, could leave once her choice was made. Become an enclosed anchorite, the property of slimy Sir Reinald, or . . .

This longish short story of about 10,500 words is set in the late twelfth century.

Here’s how the story begins:
She left the door open behind her and laid the embroidered coverlet by the bed. The room still smelled of her master and she tried hard to keep the flood of memories at bay.

The window glass sparkled and was the hall’s greatest treasure. Other windows, and there weren’t many, only had wood shutters. The small panes of glass weren’t clear and obscured the light somewhat, but the light they let through glimmered like on a clear autumn day.

Since moving to her alcove four weeks ago, her times here could be numbered on one hand. The joy this room held for her was gone. Another, more worthy, would share her master’s bed and bear his children.

She turned from the window, opened the coverlet and flung it across the heap of wool blankets and skins. It was spring now and some could be put up, not all. The hall, even this room, was a cold drafty place.

She pushed that thought away and the next that wanted to take its place, studied the embroidered figures and colors and was pleased. Her best work. Still a lot to do yet, but she’d be finished in two or three days. By then she’d have this room and bed made worthy for her master’s new bride and the consummation of their marriage.

 

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