Tudor Christmas Tidings by Blythe Gifford

Author:Blythe Gifford
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2020-07-10T12:47:20+00:00

* * *

‘The new Queen has a great deal of energy, does she not?’ Anne murmured as they climbed the stairs back to her chambers that night. ‘The court seems very lively these days.’

‘Yes, my lady,’ Pippa agreed cautiously, knowing that Anne probably couldn’t help but compare herself. ‘Although, I confess, it’s a little too lively for me, not to mention the King. He retired to bed after the Masque.’

‘I wish I could have done the same. It’s been a long day.’ Anne sighed as Pippa closed the door to her bedchamber behind them. ‘But the Queen is a kind lady. The King gave her a present of a ruby ring and she handed it straight to me. I believe that she’s trying to make me feel welcome as a sister.’

‘I think that you’re right, my lady.’

‘I noticed Sir Christopher across the room, too.’ Anne gave her a surreptitious glance. ‘I thought that he might come and speak to us, but he left quickly.’

‘Yes, my lady, I noticed that as well.’ She swallowed, trying not to remember how incredibly handsome he’d looked. Seeing him again, even from across a crowded room, had been even more painful than she’d expected. Seeing him side by side with Lady Cecily, looking like a pair of golden swans, had made her feel as though she’d been kicked hard in the ribs. She’d done her best not to look at him again afterwards, yet she’d been aware of his every gesture and movement, including his terse exchange with his brother.

‘Pippa.’ Anne sounded hesitant. ‘I know it’s none of my business, but have the two of you quarrelled?’

‘Not exactly, but I told him...’ Pippa pursed her lips... ‘That is, when he visited at Christmas, I made it clear that an alliance between the two of us would be impossible.’

‘Ah. You’re certain of that, then?’

‘Yes. I made sure that he believed it, too.’

‘Well, then...you go to bed. Hansi will undress me tonight.’

‘Thank you, my lady, but if you don’t mind, I think perhaps I might take a walk outside instead. I’d like to clear my head after all the noise. I’m afraid I’ve become used to the peace and quiet of Richmond.’

‘Of course.’ Anne’s smile suggested that she understood perfectly. ‘Only don’t go too far and don’t stay out in the cold too long either. I’ll see you in the morning.’

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