The smell made my mouth water.

“I have concern for my slave,” I admitted as I looked back to him, “and the child she carries if I were to fall. I want your word that you would ensure her safety and care.”

“Clarify your meaning,” Antonius said.

“I cannot will either her or the child my legacy,” I said. “If I die in battle, they will have no protection or funds to provide for them. She would become my father’s property.”

“You speak truth,” Antonius agreed.

“I would have you take her,” I said as I grasped his forearm, “and the child.”

Widening his eyes, he straightened his back and...