With the help of one of the staff, Joseph got Clarisse inside and into a private room. They laid her on the sofa, and Joseph kneeled on the floor beside her. It was only a few moments before she regained consciousness and opened her eyes.
Joseph dismissed the staff member and helped Clarisse sit up. He sat beside her, his arm protectively around her shoulder and his other hand on hers. He said nothing as Clarisse registered the fact that it was Joseph she had seen. He gave her a moment to become adjusted to the shock.
"Clarisse, my dear, I am so sorry to have given you such a start. I never dreamed that you would react that way; I was just hoping you wouldn't throw something heavy at me, not pass out." He tried to smile, but Clarisse was in no mood to be playful.
"What are you doing here?"
"This place is mine. For quite a while now, in fact."
"You never told me."
"That's right. I didn't."
"Joseph, I don't understand all this."
"Darling, please. I'll explain everything. But first, are you feeling better, can I get you anything?"
"Just an explanation. And then I want to go home. Please have Marcus come for me."
"Marcus is waiting for you outside. He's ready to take you back as soon as you're up to it."
"I can't remember the last time I fainted like that."
"I can. The night I had to tell you Philippe was killed. You collapsed into my arms just like you did tonight. Scary as hell, that night."
"You were always there when I needed you." Clarisse took a breath, and a sip of the water Joseph held out to her.
"I always have been, until recently."
Clarisse nodded. "That's right. So you own this place?" she changed the subject.
"Yes, About 15 years ago I brought Rupert out here to look at it. The owner was moving to America and wanted to sell. The King thought it would be great to own the inn as well as the beach house, but then something happened and he decided against it."
"Pierre joined the church 15 years ago. Rupert was never the same after that." Clarisse lost herself momentarily in memories of long ago.
"After he decided not to pursue it, I researched the property, was able to finance it with investors and the inheritance I received from a wealthy uncle and I've been waiting to retire and run the place. The past year or so has been hard work, but it's kept me busy." He paused, "and kept me from thinking too much."
Clarisse looked at him, studied his face, and noticed the spark had gone out of his dark eyes. "Well, if you'll see me out, I'll say goodnight."
Joseph helped her up and offered his arm, which she declined. He opened the door and walked with her to the car. "Clarisse, may I come by tomorrow, and see you? I think we…"
"No, Joseph." She cut him off. "We've said all that needs to be said. I wish you all the best. I'll be returning to the palace in the morning. Good night." She nodded to Marcus and he helped her inside the car and shut the door. "Good evening, Sir" he said to Joseph and climbed into the driver's seat and steered the limousine down the driveway and back to the beach house.