A New Visitor

"The garden is refreshing, mother in law." Garry smiled at her as they kept walking. But his gaze often flew back to the main building.

"You are flattering me. Who did not know about the magnificent rose garden in your palace? I have heard many ladies wanted to see it but you never allowed it." She laughed when he nodded.

"I do not like noise. But you are always welcome to visit us. Ana would feel at ease, if she would often meet you." she paused and turned towards him.

Her face still had a smile but her eyes were probing.

"And why did that matter to you, Garrion?" Looking at the confusion on his face, she let go of the pretense, "I know you only married her to fill the position because only our family could challenge the royal family. Princess would not be able to act arbitrarily if Any would marry you." He had made everything clear.