Hostage Bride. Anne Herries

you let him take my uncle with him when he leaves?’ she asked breathlessly.

      ‘I have already informed the prince Count Torrs escaped before you arrived,’ Raphael said, deciding that it would be best to tell her as little as necessary. If, God forbid, she was ever held as the prince’s prisoner she couldn’t tell what she didn’t know. ‘You will not be required to pay the ransom.’

      ‘Will you allow me to leave? One of my escorts is here in the village waiting for me,’ she said.

      ‘My men knew his intention and it was reported to me. Fitzherbert has been sent away. You will remain here under my protection for the moment,’ Raphael told her.

      ‘But if …’ Rosamunde’s knees trembled. ‘Am I your prisoner?’

      ‘We live in uncertain times, lady. You would not be safe if I let you leave here. I cannot be sure you have told me the whole truth but, even if you are Rosamunde and not the lady Angelina, you must remain here until I have time to escort you to your home.’