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Page 260
But it was not only the beauty, it was the warmth of welcome that troubled Rhiannon. They were really overjoyed; she was thanked again and again for making so long and hard a journey so that her bethrothed's parents could come to know her. Color rose in Rhiannon's face. She had expected to be greeted politely, perhaps even with a slightly veiled hostility or with tepid approval. This open, eager, warm-hearted welcome was very pleasant but somewhat disconcerting. It made her feel guilty.
"But it was not for that I came," she blurted out. "My father wishes me to meet King Henry and, if there should be a threat to Gwynedd, to try to divert him from that purpose."
There was a moment of startled silence, broken by Simon's laughter. "She is not yet perfected in diplomacy," he chortled.
Rhiannon turned on him. "One is not double-tongued with those who offer love," she snapped. "I can say sweet enough words when there is falseness in the air."
"Thank you, my love," Simon rejoined with dancing eyes. "Now do I better understand why you lash me with your tongue."
"If she does it for love, you are more fortunate than you deserve," Alinor said, pleased by Rhiannon's honesty and totally delighted by Simon's obvious adoration. "Your father would never lay the rod on you as you merited. Perhaps Lady Rhiannon will tame you before you destroy yourself."
"Mama, if Papa had whipped me as I deserved, I would be dead," Simon teased.
"Certainly,' Alinor agreed cordially, "but for once you seem to have done something right. Come, Lady Rhiannon, sit down beside me and explain what it is Lord Llewelyn fears."
"You do not need to call me 'lady.' Rhiannon alone

 
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