Lucille

Awakened and dressed much earlier than usual, I was sitting at the window in my private parlor, sipping tea and eating fruit with toast and jam when the door to the parlor opened.

Roman’s laser-focused stare met mine as he closed the door behind him.

“Your Highness,” I said, standing, and followed with a curtsy.

His deep voice was lowered. “I’m sorry I didn’t make it to the gazebo last night.” ...