"Well you do have exceptionally good taste," Phedre said. "Alcuin is very beautiful too."

She wondered not for the first time if Hannibal had any inkling that Alcuin was in love with him. He'd never said as much, of course, but it was obvious. At least to her. And she was very fond of Hannibal but didn't love him, and she was fairly certain Hannibal felt the same way about her. So at the same time she felt a bit guilty, while also thinking it might be best for Alcuin to protect his heart.