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elyn with news of John's order to disband the army. Llewelyn would, of course, already have heard of so important a move on the borders of Wales, but it would be a strong symbol of good will to send the information. In any case, Joanna was not concerned for Clyro as long as Llewelyn could control the other Welsh princes. His bond with Ian was strong, far too strong to risk over a small, unimportant piece of property like Clyro. |
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When she came to the news of Salisbury's sending for Ian, she drew breath sharply and her eyes flew so quickly over the remaining words that she got little sense from them. All that came clear, terribly clear, were Geoffrey's final words. His, she would be his, completely and entirely his. A huge upwelling of joy drowned in a tide of fear. Was it not likely that Geoffrey would go straight from his marriage bed to fight the king's enemies? She could not bear it. She could not. Her eyes slid back a few lines and guilt mingled with fear. Geoffrey loved her. He was so eager. She had been greatly at fault to yield to his lovemaking. She had given him good cause to believe that she was as eager as he to be wed. What should she do? What could she do? |
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Perhaps her mother could help. Joanna sought further back in the letter, hoping for information as to when Ian and Alinor might be expected to arrive. If she sent a messenger at once, could he arrive in Ireland before her mother and Ian left? What Joanna found instead of the information she sought was Geoffrey's explanation of the political situation and the significance her marriage to him would have. She read and reread the lines and found herself utterly convinced by his reasoning. |
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Joanna knew that the political situation would make no difference to Ian or Alinor. If she said she was unwilling to marry Geoffrey, they would break the contract and face the consequences without the slightest hesitation. Joanna shuddered. It might have been possible to sacrifice Geoffrey. She could have told herself that he would soon console himself with a new love. It simply was not possible, however, |
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