Page 67 of Lionheart

"Youlooked like you suited well enough from where I was standing," Altheasnorted. "How long have you been whoring behind Lionheart's back?"

"I donot have to answer to you," Vanora returned. "There is but one whorehere, and 'tis not I. Excuse me, there is much to be done today, and exchangingbarbs with you is a waste of my time." So saying, she raised her chin andswept past Althea.

* * *

Lionheartreturned to the keep later that day in a cheerful mood. The weather had beenbrisk, just right for the hunt, and they had bagged a variety of small game.Edward enjoyed the hunt as much as Lionheart did, and they had planned asennight of hunting before Edward returned to England.

Mugs ofmulled wine were passed around as Lionheart settled into a chair before thehearth. Edward stood nearby, staring pensively into the flames.

"Thisbrief sojourn is just what I needed, Lionheart," Edward said. "Soon Iwill be involved in a battle to defend my birthright. If Father were strongerand less enamored of harboring foreigners at his court, civil war would not benecessary."

"Youshall persevere, Edward, I know you will. I am here should you need me. Justsend for me, and I will hie myself to your side."

"Ihave never doubted your loyalty, Lionheart. I regret having to leave youbehind, but 'tis necessary. Should a messenger arrive bearing my colors, youwill know I am in trouble. I pray it will not come to that. Excuse me, I wishto change before the evening meal."

Lionheartwatched Edward walk away, his golden head held high and proud. Despite hisyouth, he was a splendid warrior and would make a wise king. Lionheart wasproud of the young man he had befriended.

From thecorner of his eye Lionheart saw Althea approaching and heaved a weary sigh. Thelook on her face did not bodewell for him. What now? he wondered.

"Lionheart,may I have a word with you?"

"Whatis it, Althea?"

"Nothere. In private."

"I haveno time for this."

"Please,Lionheart, 'tis important. I promise you will not be sorry."

"Ifthis is some trick, Althea—"

"Nay,no trick. Come to my chamber. 'Tis about your wife."

The word"wife" startled him. What did Althea know about Vanora? "Very well,but do not try your seductive wiles on me. I did not ask you to come here andam sorry that Edward took it upon himself to bring you. When you leave, youwill be amply compensated for any inconvenience. Consider it your dowry."

Disregardinghis words, she grasped his hand and pulled him toward the winding staircasethat led to her chamber. Only one person noticed. Giles's disapproving gazefollowed them until they were lost to sight.

"Youare acting strangely, Althea. Are you unwell?" Lionheart asked when theyreached the top landing.

"I amvery well." She flung open the door and strode inside, waiting for him tofollow. Once he was inside, she closed the door.

"Allright, I am here. Why the secrecy?"

"Idid not want others to hear something that would cause you embarrassment. Itruly care for you, Lionheart."

He heavedanother sigh. "I know that and regret the way things turned out. I am fondof you, too. Now tell me what it is that I should know."

"Imet Daffid ap Deverell today. What was Vanora's former betrothed doing atCragdon?"

"Isthat what this is about? Daffid was being held prisoner in the tower. WhenEdward arrived, he advised me to release Daffid. I did so this morn." Afrown creased his brow. "Where did you see him? I assumed he had left Cragdon."

"Youassumed wrong," Althea said with a smirk. "I saw him kissing yourwife in the chapel."

Lionheartinhaled sharply. Vanora had denied having feelings for Daffid, and he hadbelieved her. Had she lied? Had she been planning mischief even as they madelove last night?

"Thereis more," Althea said.

Lionheart'slips thinned. "Tell me."