apparently eager to foster matrimonial harmony between alexandra and her husband , he said , while beaming at her , `` his grace has been here more'n an hour awaitin ' for you-prowling back and forth , fair champin ' at the bit with impatience to see you- '' surprised and shamefully pleased , alexandra smiled at jordan as he strode out of the stables , but her smile abruptly faded when she saw that his face was as dark as a thundercloud .