Tewdric nodded. "As it happens I was given some warning about your medical history. I confess, that it has been a concern."
Meeting her in yes, he decided it was time to be blunt. "I don't want you to have any illusions. For me, a marriage is primarily a matter of providing a legitimate heir for my House, a duty I have so far neglected in pursuit of my career. As to your age, I would say that it worries me . . . the opinions we hold in youth are not necessarily those that we hold when we are older. And I will not tolerate infidelity, however understandable your affinity for younger men might be, under the circumstances. My wife must be above suspicion, because my heirs' claim to the legacy House of Nott is sacrosanct above all else. Which is why I want you to think carefully before agreeing to this match. If you are unwilling, or unready, it will do neither of us any good. I have . . . seen the consequences of that, often enough, in my practice and in society. I can smooth matters over with your family, if necessary."