“Did he hurt you?” she asked urgently.Isabeau looked startled. “I’m touched by your concern. Why would Lord Hugh hurt me? Granted, he’s a soldier, but he’s a very gentle man.”Julianna stared at her in disbelief. The kitten in her arms squealed, and she realized belatedly that she was holding her far too tightly. She set her down to scamper across the floor. “You look none the worse for a night of debauchery,” she said finally, her voice even.Isabeau raised an eyebrow. “It was hardly a night of debauchery, my love. The abbot has decreed we live like brother and sister. Despite my best efforts, you are without siblings, but I assure you that brothers and sisters do not indulge in debauchery.”“You’re in a cheery mood this morning.”“And why shouldn’t I be?” Isabeau replied. “It’s a beautiful day, I’m newly married to a good man who cares for me, and I have my daughter back with me, whether she wants to be or not. In truth, I’m in such a good mood, I mink I owe Saint Hugelina a debt of gratitude, and my task for today is to see to the cleaning of the Lady Chapel as a fitting showcase for the Blessed Chalice.”“Ch-chalice?”
