Chapter 9: Dinner (rewrite)

Arrival and Surprises

As Lott and Morgan entered the castle, they were greeted with enthusiasm from the staff.

"Welcome to Your Majesty Lott," they shouted in unison, their voices echoing through the grand hall.

Morgan noticed the maids and footmen lined up in uniform, their training evident in their disciplined demeanour. Despite their rough appearance, which Lott himself regretted, the staff seemed well-trained.

[Lott's staff might look rough, but they're well-trained. I suppose it's a good start. I'll help him refine things over time.] Morgan thought, inspecting the scene with a critical eye.

The Castle Interior

Morgan was immediately struck by the cleanliness and brightness of the castle. Unlike the musty, horse-scented castles she was used to, this one was pristine. The carpets were plush, the stairs were elegantly spiralled, and a large mirror in the living room caught her attention.

[This mirror must be incredibly expensive. How did he manage to get such a thing?] Morgan wondered, marvelling at the luxurious details.

To her surprise, there was no sign of magic involved; the beauty and order of the castle seemed to be the result of meticulous effort and investment.

[So, no magic here. It's all real, and that's impressive.] She mused, trying to reconcile her expectations with the reality of Lott's achievements.

Lott, meanwhile, was internally relieved.

[Looks like Morgan is impressed. I've invested a lot in making this place nice, but it's a work in progress. I hope she doesn't get too caught up in the small details.]

Dinner Preparations

Lott, eager to impress Morgan, suggested they head to the dining room.

"Let's go to dinner. I've asked the chef to prepare our specialities. I hope you enjoy it," he said.

Morgan was curious but also cautious.

[As long as it's not too spicy. I can't stand overly spicy food.] she thought, recalling her dislike for such dishes.

Lott assured her with a smile, [Don't worry, I know your preferences well.]

A Taste of Home

As they sat at the long dining table, which was set for just the two of them, Lott's thoughts revealed a sense of contentment mixed with lingering loneliness.

[At least, with Morgan here, I won't be eating alone anymore. This makes things much better.]

Morgan, glancing at Lott, was touched by the hint of loneliness he had felt before.

[I'm here now, and I'll be with you through everything. We'll face challenges and triumphs together. Our future will be filled with joy and family.]

Her thoughts wandered to their future together, imagining their future children and the life they would build.

Dining Together

When the food was served, Lott and Morgan enjoyed a pleasant meal. Lott, despite his earlier anxieties about the quality of his culinary offerings, was relieved when Morgan praised the meal.

[This is delicious, Lott. You've outdone yourself.] Morgan said, clearly enjoying the food.

[I'm glad you like it. I was worried it wouldn't meet your expectations.] Lott replied, his heart lightened by her approval.

The meal was more than just a dining experience; it was a moment of connection and a glimpse into the future they would share. The two of them, now seated together, felt a deeper bond forming with each passing moment.

As the evening continued, Morgan's initial reservations about the castle faded, replaced by a sense of anticipation for the life they would build together.