De Montfort Residence
Paris, Kingdom of France
“That is no one’s business but my own and Lady Joanne’s.”
Marcus regarded Sir Denys de Montfort. He was a handsome man, at least in Marcus’ inexpert opinion. Young, perhaps mid-twenties, and easily a decade junior to Lady Joanne. Marcus found him slightly arrogant in their brief interaction so far, as if he were above the consequences of such accusations.
“Are you aware that Lord Charles knows of your transgressions, and is demanding satisfaction?”
Sir Denys shrugged, dismissing the question with a wave of his hand. “Why should I care what that imbecile wants? Let him produce his proof if it exists.”
“Lady Joanne claims she is innocent, and that no such affair has taken place.”
Denys paused, his jaw dropping slightly. He grunted. “Nonsense. If that were true, it was merely to protect me. She loves me, and we have been, shall we say, intimate. There is no denying her feelings.”
Marcus splayed his hands. “I can only tell you what she herself has told me. She claims to have never been unfaithful, in mind or body, and that this entire notion of her having an affair is false. And, frankly, I believe her.”
Denys tossed his head back and laughed. “And what would you know of love, a Templar knight who is sworn to celibacy, and has probably never bedded a woman, let alone felt the love and joy in one’s heart at having met the one woman in the world who can truly make you glad to be alive.”
Marcus bowed slightly. “I will concede that you understand the affairs of the flesh and heart far better than I ever will, however, you are aware that you could face serious consequences if you are found guilty of such an affair?”
Denys’ smile slowly dissipated. “Yes, I am aware of this, and it weighs heavily on my heart. We have kept our affair in strict confidence, yet should word come out, there is little I can do except embrace it.”
“Despite what it will do to Lady Joanne, who proclaims her innocence? Wouldn’t it be better for her if you would simply back up her story and also claim there had been no affair? That this letter is false?”
“But didn’t you state that the letter claimed there were witnesses and that proof would follow? Surely once what has been promised is produced, there will be no denying it by her or myself. And should that occur, wouldn’t it be better to declare our love for each other, rather than let those of the Court believe it was merely some tawdry affair of the flesh?”
Marcus sighed. The man was right in everything he said, though he feared the consequences would ultimately be the same. The King’s Court would care nothing of why the affair had taken place, merely that it had. Lady Joanne would be imprisoned, and Sir Denys perhaps put to death.
It was yet another reason he was happy to have taken the vow of celibacy decades ago.
The affairs of the heart too often led to sin.
“I doubt they will be swayed by your commitment to each other, Sir Denys.”
Denys frowned at him then quickly headed from the room. “Come with me, I would show you something.”
Marcus exchanged a look with Simon, who had stood silently to the side the entire time, mostly shaking his head in disbelief. They followed the proud adulterer down a hall then into a large room, well lit by lamps and a roaring fire.
Denys motioned toward a large portrait showing him standing along the River Seine, a woman at his side, staring up at him lovingly, her hand on his chest. “Is this not proof of my love?”
Marcus stared at the large painting, the quality exceptional, the likeness of Denys striking, and the woman at his side equally beautiful. “I’m sorry, I don’t understand.”
“I had it commissioned from an artist I have been patron to for several years now. Lady Joanne has no idea I’ve had it made. My friend met her on two occasions, and was able to sketch her surreptitiously without her knowing, then used those sketches to create this incredible likeness. I intend to give it to her tonight when we meet, as a gift, a declaration of my love for her.”
Marcus approached the painting, staring at the woman. “Do you consider this a good likeness?”
“As if she were in the room with me now.”
Marcus’ eyes narrowed. “Are you sure?”
“Absolutely. She is as accurate as I.”
Marcus nodded slowly, staring at Denys then the painting, the resemblance between him and the likeness in the portrait remarkably accurate, the artist undoubtedly a talent. He beckoned Simon who stared at it as well for a moment, then shook his head. Marcus turned to Denys. “I’m not sure how to say this, Sir Denys, but this isn’t Lady Joanne.”
Denys stared at him in stunned silence for a moment. “What do you mean?”
“I mean, I met her today, and this is not my cousin.”
Denys’ eyes narrowed then he laughed. “Then whomever you met is an imposter.”
Marcus sighed. “Sir, I think someone is an imposter here, but I doubt it is the woman I met. I can see no possible reason for a woman to seek me out, claim to be someone she is not, and deny an affair that the real Lady Joanne was having.”
Denys’ shoulders sagged slightly, most of the pride in his posture now gone, confusion on his face. “You’re right, of course. That does make little sense.”
Marcus lowered his voice, taking on a more gentle tone. “I think, sir, something more is going on here than either of us realizes.”
Denys collapsed into a nearby chair. “I-I agree. But why? What did—?” He threw his arms against the sides of the chair. “I’m so confused!”
“Yes, sir, as am I, but we must find out the truth. My cousin’s life is at stake, as is her marriage, the honor of her husband, and frankly, sir, your life as well.”
Denys’ eyes widened. “Why, you’re right! If what you say is true, and this woman isn’t Lady Joanne, then I am being accused of a crime I only thought I was committing, not one I have actually committed. I could die for nothing!”
Marcus ignored the selfishness of the declaration. “You said you were going to give her the portrait tonight. Does that mean you had plans to meet her?”
“Yes. I’m supposed to see her shortly.”
“Then I suggest you keep that meeting.”
Denys leaped to his feet, color returning to his cheeks as rage blazed in his eyes. “I agree! I will get the truth out of her, for sure!”
Marcus shook his head, waving his hands. “No, let us do that. You will meet with her, pretend all is well, then we will take her into our custody, and determine what she is playing at.”