Grieving

He stood firmly in my path just as I reached for the door handle, his eyes downcast as he spoke. 

"Pardon me, Your Grace. She requested that no one be allowed to approach her chambers." Peter's voice was laced with apology as he bowed slightly.

I furrowed my brows in confusion. This was unexpected, but not entirely surprising. It was late, but I hadn't anticipated her outright refusal to let me enter her rooms.

Peter's expression remained unchanged as he shrugged again. He didn't seem inclined to move from his spot.

"How about I demand that you let me in?" I suggested with a frown.

"Please don't," Peter pleaded urgently. "You entrusted me with her protection, and I will defend her with my life if it comes to that... But please, don't."

Suddenly, the door handle clicked. The edge of the door hit his back as they swung open just enough for a young maid to emerge. She bowed briefly before disappearing around the corner. A second maid followed closely behind, carrying a tray of dishes. She closed the door behind her with a flick of her elbow and hurried away at a brisk pace.

"Stop right there," I said sternly, frowning deeply. "What's going on?"

The maid spun around on her heel, her eyes wide with surprise. "Sir, I... She… She's grieving. The lady was wailing and crying until she fell asleep just a few moments ago."

Of course, I thought bitterly. What else would she do after losing her entire family in such a gruesome manner? How can I expect her to care for my entertainment, when there is nothing left from the life she once had?

"Get lost," I growled at the maid, hoping that my words might lessen the impact of hers just a little. She bowed and scurried away down the hallway.

"Defend her from danger, grant her every wish... But deny me access to her rooms once again, and I'll cut you down like a pig," I warned Peter quietly.

"My lord, she needs to have at least some semblance of security." He replied quietly, his eyes on the floor.

"Thanks for the reminder. When she gets up, tell her I'll stop by in the morning, or tell the maid who's going to wake her." I growled and turned to leave, bitter and irritated.