Emilie made some noise of displeasure again at having the shutters thrown open, allowing the damp air to enter the chamber. But Brienne had no intention of closing the window. The air from the storm might be moist and chilled, but it was fresh and somehow soothed her jagged nerves and heart. For the whole of her life since discovering the truth of her parentage, she’d borne the sidelong glances and the careful distance most of those in the village served her. She’d accepted that being the natural daughter of Lord Hugh would keep her apart and separate from most of them. That James and his parents had overcome that and considered her for his wife was a credit to them, for none of the other families ever had. But having Sir William know her truth tore her apart. She’d heard her father’s words as she’d walked back to her seat and felt disappointment and shame bloom inside her with every step. Mercifully, the meal did not last much longer, but her torment would, for her father had invited the knight and his men to remain as guests.
