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a room not far from Richard's apartment but one that had no place for a maid except the floor of her own bedchamber. It was an act of kindness, then, to suggest that her womanservant share quarters with Gervase'sand it ensured the privacy she needed. The maid was not stupid; sharp lessons with a whip had made her very perceptive, and a bare hint was sufficient. The room was prepared for company at any moment, with wine and a covered platter of cakes ready and a warm fire, which was tended as long as the door was open. |
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Marie had gestured for Walter to enter and followed him, quietly closing the door behind her. He sensed what she had done and turned when he was only a few steps into the room. She hesitated, her hand still on the door. |
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"Do you think me shameless to invite you here?" she asked. |
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"I think you are beautiful and generous," Walter replied immediately and most sincerely. |
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He did not wish to hear of shame. Marie was hurting no one; if one of them should feel shame, that one was he. But the idea flitting through his head made him angry, and he held out his hand to Marie. However, she did not put her own into it as Sybelle would have done. She turned half away, simpering. |
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"You go too fast, sir," she cried coyly. |
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Mentally Walter shook himself. Could he have forgotten all his skill in so few days, just because Sybelle was so perfectly attuned to him that she responded to his every mood like a fine harp? When he was in a light humor, Sybelle could be teasing enough, but when he was moved by a desire to give and receive affection, she was direct and loving. Naturally, the persistent thoughts of Sybelle increased Walter's guilt and resentment. He felt like one possessed, as if the golden girl he loved had taken his soul into bondage; he could not be rid of her for a moment. This was nothing to do with Sybelle, he told himself again, angrily. |
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Meanwhile, he had smiled at Marie and chidden her gently for having so great charms as to make a man forget his manners. And while she was bridling up at this unusual way of giving a compliment, he had confessed himself at fault for being too much smitten. This was a fault easily forgiven by any woman. |
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Marie giggled more naturally and said, "You are excused |
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