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feign sickness for a day or two. It is not uncommon in new wives." |
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Alinor turned back into his arms and chuckled. "Yes, and we gave good evidence that you used me roughly enough." |
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Simon laughed also. "Well, how could I know that cursed prick I gave myself would open again in the night and nearly flood us? But, jesting aside, you should try for a few days of peace. There will be no escaping her on the ship." |
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That prediction was more true than either had suspected. Although Simon had contrived a clever arrangement whereby he and Alinor could have a tiny, private sleeping place together, Berengaria absolutely forbade his coming anywhere near the women's quarters after sundown. He was a man of lewd reputation, Berengaria said coldly in answer to Alinor's protests, and informed her that she was not the first woman in Simon's life and that he had so behaved himself in Sicily as to make himself the talk of the gentlemen. Simon was furious and might well have dared the Queen's wrath, but Alinor was too sorry for Berengaria to allow him to show his contempt of her authority. |
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They managed to snatch a few hours together at several ports, but in general the trip was a nightmare in spite of unusually smooth sailing and good winds. Their arrival at Brindisi was an unmitigated relief to all, except Berengaria. She found another cause for grief and dissatisfaction when Alinor informed her that she would now share Simon's quarters, since these could be placed both well away from the ladies and also well away from the men-at-arms. |
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"You are my lady. You have a duty to me," Berengaria whined. |
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"He is my husband. My first duty is to him." |
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"Not when he is cruel to you." |
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"He hurt you cruelly," Berengaria said mournfully. |
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