Anne
For the next one and a half months, I immersed myself in assisting Marilyn with the intricate preparations for her impending wedding. Engaging in these tasks provided a welcome distraction, redirecting my thoughts from the burdens that previously occupied my mind. The letters from Constable Green, once a regular source of information, have ceased for the past month and a half. In the lonely hours of the night, I find solace in reading and rereading the copy of the initial report he sent me in his last correspondence.
Anticipating no imminent letters, I understand there is little I can accomplish while residing away from my home in Azurelia. A glimmer of hope resides in my heart that, once Marilyn's wedding concludes, I might journey back to Azurelia, if only for a brief respite. The yearning for home weighs heavy on my soul - for my siblings, for my parents, and most profoundly, for Andrew. Though I know his radiant smile will not grace my return, I can pay my respects at his resting place, a pilgrimage I've postponed for far too long.
"Your Highness?" Elliot's voice gently pulled me from the depths of my thoughts. I found myself seated in the garden, bathed in the warm embrace of spring's gentle sunlight. The season had cast away the lingering chill of winter, inviting me to revel in the renewed vibrancy of nature. It had become a ritual of mine to seek solace in the garden, where the blossoming flowers, lush green grass, and the harmonious melodies of birds created a serene symphony.
Draped in a pale pink dress, I no longer required the comfort of a shawl. Alone in my contemplation, I often indulged in tea and biscuits, relishing the fragrant ambiance that accompanied the unfolding of spring. Until this moment, Elliot had never ventured into my solitude. Yet, on this day, a shift in the ordinary unfolded.
Turning my head, I observed him standing at a respectful distance. With a bow of his head and hands intertwined before him, he exuded an air of composed dignity. Dressed in a beige shirt, black trousers, and knee-high boots, Elliot's neat and orderly appearance reflected the meticulous attention he paid to his attire. Despite the distance, his presence felt remarkably near, punctuating the tranquility of the garden with unspoken significance.
Offering him a friendly smile, I greeted, "Good afternoon, Elliot. How are you on this fine day?" Gesturing to the empty chair positioned a few feet from mine, I continued, "Come, have a seat. Would you care for some tea and biscuits? Mrs. Tillman baked these delectable coconut biscuits this morning. They are truly exquisite." My words flowed with warmth and genuine hospitality as I turned back to savor a sip of the warm tea.
I didn't allow him the chance to decline my offer, a practiced maneuver acquired through shared time under the same roof. Recognizing that direct requests might be met with reluctance, I chose to gently assert my intentions. The solution lay in swift command, a subtle mastery I had cultivated in our shared space. Elliot, ever the loyal servant of the Kingdom of Azurelia, found comfort in his designated role. While his inherent nature resisted being merely asked for companionship, my learned approach allowed me to gently command, always mindful to wield it in a manner befitting friendship rather than authority.
He hesitated briefly, casting a glance around before choosing to sit on the chair beside me. In the tranquil garden, we found ourselves alone. The gardener had just concluded the tasks of trimming bushes and grass, leaving us to the serenity of the outdoor space. The remaining household staff were occupied within the manor, and there were no prying eyes to witness our conversation.
"Your Highness, Lady Marilyn's wedding is in two weeks," he pointed out. I responded with a hum, offering him a warm smile. Observing that he hadn't prepared himself any tea, I took it upon myself to extend the courtesy. In matters as simple as pouring tea, I preferred not to summon additional help; the routine acts of daily living served as a respite from the constant attention bestowed upon me. "The lord and the lady have requested your, uh – and my, presence at Elderwood," he continued.
A smile adorned my face as I nodded in acknowledgment, reaching for the teapot to pour Elliot a cup. "I know that, Elliot. I've been aiding Lady Marilyn in the wedding preparations," I informed him. However, as I began pouring the tea, I sensed a sudden panic emanating from him.
"Your Highness, I pray you – permit me. I would sooner meet my demise than have you attend to my needs, for I am your humble servant and the roles should not be reversed," he anxiously expressed. His cheeks flushed, eyes widened, and he hastened to take the cup from my hand, ensuring there was no inadvertent contact. With a bow, he issued another apology, "I extend my sincere apologies if my actions led you to believe I sought your service for tea, Your Highness." His persistent apologies began to wear on my patience.
I sighed, my patience gently wearing thin. "Please, stop apologizing, Elliot. There's no need," I emphasized, hoping to convey a sense of ease and understanding.
Elliot sighed, the weariness evident in the subtle furrow of his brow, and nodded thoughtfully. As he carefully poured himself a cup of tea, he began sharing the details, "The wedding festivities are set to span six days, and we are expected to be present in Elderwood throughout that time. Interestingly, I had the chance to meet Lord Joseph for drinks the other day..." His words intrigued me; I hadn't imagined Elliot engaging in social activities within the confines of Silverhelm.
"Oh?" I inquired, my curiosity piqued.
Elliot met my gaze with a polite smile, his eyes reflecting a hint of camaraderie, "Yes, Joseph and I have developed a sort of friendship through our shared interest in archery," he revealed.
"Oh, I see. You have an interest in archery?" I inquired, extending the plate of biscuits toward him.
Taking a biscuit with a polite bow, Elliot expressed his gratitude, "Thank you, Your Highness." He took a moment to enjoy the treat before continuing, "Indeed, I am trained in archery," he confirmed.
The revelation held a certain poignancy. Elliot, with his military background in Azurelia, was skilled in archery. It both intrigued and saddened me that this was the first piece of personal information I had learned about him, and much after Lord Joseph of Silverhelm no less. A bittersweet smile played on my lips as I mused, "Well, isn't that lovely? I wouldn't mind witnessing your skills in action, Elliot. It would be a delight to see you in roles other than just my guardian," I remarked. His hesitant smile indicated that he wasn't inclined to carry the conversation, so I sighed and prodded, "You were saying?"
"Oh, yes, umm – so," he hesitated to continue, seemingly unsure of his words. I had a suspicion about the direction he was heading. "We will be surrounded by other guests and, umm," he paused again.
I understood what was bothering him. Setting my teacup down, I delicately rested my finger on my cheek, feeling a sense of amusement at his hesitation. "Yes?" I prompted, encouraging him to continue.
"We might have to – uh, share a space due to our fabrications about, well – you know what," he expressed, his nervousness providing a hint of entertainment.
I let out a chuckle, "Dear God, Elliot, do not be circumspect. We may find ourselves compelled to lodge together, for in the gaze of the Silverhelm aristocracy, we are deemed a joyfully wedded couple. I understand that scrutiny shall be upon us, and therefore, we are obliged to enact the role of a couple throughout these six days," I articulated.
He gulped and lowered his eyes, releasing a sigh, "Your Highness, I would have remained behind and fabricated an illness if it weren't my duty to guard you wherever you go," he replied.
I graciously smiled, "I comprehend. You need not be troubled, Elliot. It is a mere six days. What dire fate could befall us in such a short span, am I not correct?" I chuckled softly. "We shall endure it together, so fret not," I reassured him with a comforting smile.
He sighed, and a subtle smile adorned his countenance. Despite his tension and worry, he seemed to find solace in the reassurance. It was apparent that he remained on edge and concerned, yet acknowledging it might not yield much difference. He wasn't inclined to reveal his sentiments about these six days, and I recognized that his discomfort would far surpass mine during this period.
"Very well, Your Highness. I must take my leave now," he spoke with a respectful bow, the air thick with the formality of courtly manners. As he began to rise, a palpable sense of duty and protocol surrounded him. However, just as he was poised to depart, a surge of emotion compelled me to detain him.
"Elliot, linger a moment longer, would you?" I implored, conveying both urgency and a touch of vulnerability. The gravity of the upcoming conversation hung like an invisible tapestry, woven with unspoken significance.
He required no second bidding. With a fluid and graceful motion, he returned to his seat, his eyes reflecting a blend of dedication and curiosity. "Certainly, Your Highness," he responded promptly, a subtle spark in his gaze revealing an eagerness to delve into the matters that lay ahead. It was as though he sensed the weight of the impending discourse and stood prepared to navigate the intricate intricacies of our conversation.
I released a heavy sigh, my gaze settling upon him. He cut a rather dashing figure, and it struck me that I hadn't scrutinized his features so closely beneath the radiant sun until now. The sunlight played a mesmerizing dance on his countenance, revealing a revelation I hadn't fully appreciated before.
His hazel eyes, bathed in sunlight, orchestrated a captivating symphony of green and brown hues, each tone vying for attention. The realization washed over me. I had failed to recognize the striking allure of his eyes until this moment. Long and luxuriously curled lashes framed those captivating orbs, almost provoking a twinge of envy within me.
His nose, slender and elegant, harmonized with the softness of his lips, creating a visage that was both refined and appealing. A well-defined jawline adorned with a velvety hint of stubble contributed to his rugged charm. The warm touch of the sun bestowed a delicate pink tint upon his pale cheeks, a testament to the gentle caress of its rays.
In that instant, it became apparent that the whispers circulating among the ladies of Silverhelm were not without merit. Elliot, indeed, stood as a paragon of masculine beauty, leaving me in silent agreement with the unspoken sentiments of admiration that surrounded him.
Aware that he awaited my response, I blinked and averted my gaze, feeling an unexpected heat rise to my cheeks. Embarrassment washed over me like an unexpected wave. I found myself blushing at the realization of openly admiring him. It felt like an uncharacteristic vulnerability, a sentiment I wasn't accustomed to revealing.
Clearing my throat in an attempt to compose myself, I finally spoke, "There is something I wished to discuss with you," I confessed, my tone tinged with a mix of nervousness and determination. "Upon our return from Elderwood, I wish to journey home."
Surprise flickered in Elliot's eyes as my words hung in the air. "Pardon?" he responded, his voice betraying a blend of confusion and curiosity. The unexpected nature of my request seemed to catch him off guard, leaving an air of anticipation lingering between us.
With a heavy sigh, I faced Elliot, the weight of a year and a half of uncertainty bearing down on me. "It has been a year and a half, Elliot," I began, my voice carrying a mix of frustration and longing. "You must convey to my father that I insist on returning. I penned my request to him weeks ago, but his silence weighs heavily on my heart."
My expression hardened, a stern resolve settling into my features. "Convey my message to him, Elliot," I insisted, my words carrying the weight of an unyielding determination. "His disregard for my plea will not deter me from my cause. I cannot remain in Silverhelm indefinitely. Life must move forward. You, too, cannot put your life on hold for my sake. This prolonged limbo has to cease. A year and a half is ample time to quell the dangers that befell me after Andrew's murder. It is high time I return home for good," I declared, the emotions in my plea ranging from desperation to a firm insistence.
A pregnant pause lingered in the air before Elliot finally broke the silence, his words hesitant. "Umm, alright, I will convey your wish to your father, Your Highness." Yet, the furrowed lines on his forehead betrayed a lack of enthusiasm for my proposition.
A weary sigh escaped my lips as I observed his reluctance. "It is not merely a wish, Elliot," I responded, my voice carrying a mix of frustration and determination. "Consider it a command. Make it clear to my father that I am returning to Azurelia, irrespective of his sentiments on the matter."
The firmness in my tone mirrored the growing resolve within me. "Whether he likes it or not," I asserted with unwavering determination, the emotions in my words ranging from frustration at the perceived resistance to a palpable insistence on reclaiming control over my destiny.