I WATCHED EMILIE FROM OUTSIDE the sitting room before she had the chance to spy me. She was amid the other ladies-in-waiting attending to their embroidery. Her blond braids spilled out from under a white hood. Her little nose seemed as soft as a bud. I saw what I had known that first day but looked beyond due to the nature of our friendship:

Emilie was beautiful. She was beyond compare.

I winked at her from the doorway, flashed her a smile. Her eyes stretched as wide as wildflowers blooming in July.

Emilie rose, placing her embroidery neatly down on the table, and with perfect politeness excused herself and came toward me. Her pace quickened as she did.

Only in the hall, when she rushed up to me and grasped my hands, did she show her true delight.Hugh De Luc...It's true.Someone said they saw you. You have come back to us.

I hope I don't wear out my welcome, my lady. And that you are not displeased.

She grinned. I am most pleased. And look at you... Still in your jester's garb. You look good, Hugh.

The same you made for me, just a bit frayed. Norbert has taken ill. I promised I would stand in for him.

Her eyes, vibrant and green, seemed to illuminate the dark hall. I have no doubt we will all be the merrier for it. But tell me, Hugh, your quest... ? How did it go?

I bowed my head, not for a moment hiding my disappointment or true feelings.

Emilie led me down the hall, where no guards were posted and we were able to sit on a bench. Please... I can see you are sorely troubled, but I have to hear.

Your plan was excellent. On the subject of mypretext , everything went well. I replaced the fool in Treille, gained access as we had spoken, and was able to snoop around.

I did not mean our pretext, Hugh. I meant your quest. Your dear Sophie. What did you find? Tell me.

As to my wife. I swallowed dryly. I am now sure that she is dead.

The light in Emilie's hopeful eyes began to dim. She reached out for my hand. I am most sorry, Hugh. I can see how it saddens you. We sat there silently for a while. Then she noticed my arm. You are injure............