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led Joanna to Braybrook's side before that gentleman could retreat without making a fool of himself. Geofrey's voice was pleasant, his smile was not. "You seem to be in some way made uneasy by Lady Joanna and myself. Can I offer you some assistance?" |
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It was patently evident that Braybrook had not expected this open, frontal attack. His confused consternation was so obvious that it surprised Joanna into laughter, and Geoffrey's smile broadened into a grin. Eyes from all over the room flashed toward them and away again. Everyone was fascinated by the confrontation, but no one wished to be dragged in between such powerful forces as the elder Braybrook and the Earl of Salisbury. Sir Henry was well aware of that; he knew that, although no one was watching openly, all ears were cocked and all eyes alert. Until that moment he had been so well satisfied with his attempt to discomfit and shame Joanna that he had almost felt repaid for the rosebush incident. Now, however, spite and rage were renewed tenfold and mingled to deprive him of caution momentarily. |
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"I was uneasy indeed seeing that there have been those who said the lady favored my company." |
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Joanna did not have time to be shocked or appalled by this foolhardy counterattack because Geoffrey began to laugh aloud. |
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"But we both know that Lady Joanna has far too much sense for that," he said provocatively, "so you have no need to be shy of me. I will not eat you for what others say." |
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For one instant, Joanna feared that Braybrook would forget his knowledge of Geoffrey's murderous abilities. He turned a most unhealthy color, which made Geoffrey laugh again. |
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"We both know, at least, that Lady Joanna denies she was in my company," Braybrook spat, "and I would never contest a lady's word." |
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"You" Joanna began, but Geoffrey's hand closed over her wrist so hard that her voice cut off on a gasp of pain. |
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"How wise you are," Geoffrey said, sneering openly |
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