|
|
|
|
|
|
Alinor stared at what she could see of Simon's averted face. Berengaria might have been appalled at the unloverlike phrasing, but that did not trouble Alinor. She was only interested in what Simon really meant. If it was only his tender conscience pricking him again, her presence would soon heal the smart. There was also the possibility that he was using the device of a tender conscience as an excuse for backing out of a relationship he no longer desired. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"What do you mean, 'to your shame'? It was agreed between us that you would try to win me honestly. Where is the shame in that?" |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"In thatnone," Simon replied in a furious undertone. "The shame lies in that, when I knew you were coming, I began to think less of honesty. I warn you, Alinor, I am no longer so trustworthy as I once was. If you tease me now as you have in the past, you may have a rude surprise." |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"Is that a threat or a promise, Simon?" she asked, laughing softly. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"Do not you dare bellow at me in this crowd," Alinor hissed. "Have you no sense of propriety?" |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"I have just told you I have no sense at all!" |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Could he be trying to frighten her, Alinor wondered. "Simon look at me," she said quietly. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
He turned his head obediently, but she could not read the expression except that he was certainly laboring under some violent excitement. His lips were set hard and his eyes alight. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"Simon, what is it?" Alinor asked. "And do not spin me any cobwebs of love or fear for my safekeeping. Whatever danger may exist for a man-at-arms, there is none for the three queens or their ladies. We will scarcely be encamped in a bog or at the mercy of the Sicilians. And, however much your passion, you are not like to force me to any act I will not willingly perform." |
|
|
|
|
|