Page 108 of Lionheart

"Youunderstand naught," Father Caddoc said. "Although Vanora went toDraymere willingly, she had no intention of remaining."

Lionheartgave a snort of derision. "Did she tell you this?"

"Shewas not allowed to speak with me in private, not even to confess."

"Thenhow can you possibly know what is in Vanora's mind?"

"Ibaptized her. I watched her grow and guided her through childhood to become thekind of woman she is today. Her mind is an open book to me. She expressed throughsilent communication what she could not say in words. Unfortunately, she hadmisjudged the extent of Daffid's greed. She thought she could convince Daffidto release Sir Giles and his lady without risking her own freedom. She waswrong."

"Vanora'sparting words to Giles indicated otherwise. Do you expect me to believe thatVanora's motive for surrendering herself to Daffid was purely selfless? Tis toomuch to ask, Father."

"Vanoraloves you, Lionheart. And I believe you love her. She did not expect to love anEnglishman, nor did she intend for this matter with Daffid to get out ofhand."

A chill offoreboding snaked down Lionheart's spine. "What are you keeping from me,Father?"

"Ibear a message from Daffid. In two days hence he intends to bring Vanora to Cragdon.He said he would kill her before your eyes if you and your men do not rideforth from Cragdon when he arrives. You are to carry no arms, nor weararmor."

"Hewants me to abandon Cragdon?"

"Aye.Once you and your men have ridden through the portcullis, he will releaseVanora and let you leave in peace."

"Andyou believe him?"

The priestshrugged. "Daffid has turned from God. I do not trust his word."

"Wasit also Vanora's wish that I leave Cragdon?"

"Nay.Vanora was unhappy with Daffid's demands. Her parting words were a warning toyou. She said you should not leave Cragdon, that if you obey Daffid, you andyour men will be slain."

"Shetold you this at the risk of her own life?" Lionheart asked in a voiceladen with disbelief.

"Aye.She cares naught for Daffid."

"Icannot do as she wishes, Father. Daffid may kill her if I fail to comply withhis wishes. I wonder," he mused thoughtfully, "if Daffid realizes heis breaking a peace treaty his own prince has wrought. Mayhap he isbluffing."

The priest'sguileless gaze probed deep into Lionheart's soul. "There is more."

"Goon."

"Daffidknows Vanora is carrying your child. He said the babe will never see the lightof day if you fail to comply with his wishes."

Lionheartleapt to his feet. "What! That cannot be true."

"'Tis not impossible, is it?"

Lionheartcould not deny it. He and Vanora had lain together often enough to make a babe.Fear for Vanora and the child she carried was so great, he began to tremble.Then he swore. Once she was returned safely to him, he would beat her forplacing two lives in danger ... or make endless love to her.

"Aye,Father, 'tis entirely possible. Where is Mair? Mayhap Vanora confided inher."

"I amhere, Lord Lionheart," Mair said, appearing from behind him. Her face waspale and drawn, and it was obvious from her swift arrival that she had beenhovering nearby.

"Whereis Vanora, my lord? I am frantic with worry. Why did she not return home withFather Caddoc?"

"Iwill tell you everything I know, but I would ask a question of you first."

Mair gavehim a wary look. "What is it you wish to know?"

"IsVanora expecting my child? Has she spoken to you about it?"