Just the beginning

It takes Alexander a whole week to accept.

He visits Lavinia and me every day. Sometimes, he stays for the night. Seldom, he walks back to his room.

The chamber I occupied has become more comfortable and cosy. The maids light the fire and keep it warm for me.

I also have a small working room attached.

I still need to walk to the Lady's office for some documents.

I can't just forget about my duties. Even if they're not my duties anymore, I shouldn't let Stoneyard be unmanaged for the time of this little tantrum of mine.

The day Alexander accepts to get married, it's sunny and windy. Not the perfect day to take a stroll in the gardens because the breeze is chilly, but I don't care.

«I will marry you,» he says, looking me in the eyes. «And this is my own wish. Not something anyone else forced me to do.»

I can't help but smile. I can restrain myself for a few seconds only before jumping in his arms and hugging him tightly.