Long term goals

The morning after, I woke up hearing my wife's songs.

I just lied in bed, listening to her in silence, until she noticed me. I smirked at her, in secret displeased that she stopped singing for the shock.

We spent the day together.

I observed her morning routine and counselled her about the dress to choose; I drank her bitter tea and observed the way she applied some makeup on her face; I talked with her about serious matters, like her lady in waiting and official duties.

The day before, I instructed her maid to find a spot on her schedule for a stroll around lunchtime. I would have passed in the gardens at that hour and incidentally meet my wife.

In the end, she invited me to walk with her on her own.

I was so happy with that small detail that I didn't think about the consequences. I hadn't had time to talk with Martia, but I was sure she would have helped my wife.