The Rebel Princess by Judith Koll Healey

Author:Judith Koll Healey
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub
Tags: mystery, Historical
ISBN: 9780061673566
Publisher: HarperCollins
Published: 2009-01-01T05:00:00+00:00

“Yes, I suppose he thought the story believable enough to convince Francis it was his own.”

Philippe surveyed me with an expression that was glum. “Why haven’t you told him yet?” he asked, in a voice slightly less hostile. “There has been no lack of opportunity. He has been with you many times.”

“I wanted to but William forbade it.” I deflated like a bellows, my righteous anger deserting me suddenly. My cheek sank onto my hand, my elbow propped on the table. “He says the times are too unstable politically, that this news could put Francis’s life in danger if his legacy were known.”

“What did you plan to do?” The king’s voice betrayed no emotion now. He was eyeing me as if I were a wolverine about to sprint forward at any moment. “When would you tell him of his parentage?”

“William thought Whitsuntide next, when his diplomatic tasks are complete. Many political things may be resolved then. We thought we could safely tell him if he were with us, under William’s protection. William felt then he could advise Francis on any course of action he might take.”

“Like what?” Philippe was quick to interject.

“Telling King John, for example, that he was his half brother.” I looked up. “Telling you he was of your own blood. Or perhaps not telling anyone anything.”

“I see.” Philippe’s tone was flat.

“Francis looks upon William as his father, although he knows he is not. We wanted to make a family for him. You know we planned to marry next year, when William’s service to the pope was finished. William would then have time to devote to Francis and his situation.” The more civil tone of our exchange was having a calming effect on both of us.

“So he does not yet know who his true father is.” A thoughtful tone crept into my brother’s comment, almost as if he were talking to himself. I knew he was thinking now like the king of France. What advantage or disadvantage this situation might present to his realm.

I could see the mole at the side of my brother’s mouth twitching, which meant he felt the same stress as did I. But I had no time for pity. My every effort must be to bend him to my will and allow me to go in search of Francis. Even though Philippe was a young king to have so much responsibility, scarce thirty summers, I would not sympathize. I would press any advantage. I could not take on his problems, as well.

“So you see, I must go.” I sat up with a quick motion, and forced firmness into my voice, as if the interview were at an end. I made as if to stand and continued, before my brother could interject a word. “It doesn’t matter what happened in the past. This is my son. He is in danger, and doesn’t know it.”

“Hold a moment, Sister,” Philippe said, pointing to my chair with his finger. “Sit again. We are not finished.” I sighed, but I sat.

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