More time with the Duke

The couple sat on the bench, looking up as they watched the sun set and the stars fill the sky. As they appeared, Corina reached up, pretending to catch them in her palm. "I wonder what each of those words up in the sky is like. Maybe there are people just like us somewhere."

"I think there probably are," Alex said.

"Wouldn't it be amazing if we had a way to visit them all?" The princess inquired. "I would want to learn all about the people who live so far away."

"It would definitely be a wonderful learning experience," the brunette man agreed. "Though you may run into a race of murderous beasts. Imagine seeing a twelve foot-tall shark man with sharp teeth."

Corina groaned and scratched the side of her head. "Maybe I'm not interested in exploring after all."

Alexander chuckled at her response. "That's probably the best plan."

Corina wanted to sit closer to him. He was so far away, but she didn't want to appear rude or off-putting. Delicately, she folded her hands in her laps. "Husband?"

Alex looked in the opposite direction when she addressed him as her husband. He was sure it was going to take a lot of time for him to get used to the endearing title. Even so, he liked the sound of Corina addressing him with the affectionate name. "Yes?"

"May I sit closer to you?"

Immediate regret washed over her once she uttered the question. 

"I would enjoy it if you would," he admitted.

Corina sighed with relief. 

Slowly, she scooted closer. The princess positioned her body close enough so their legs touched. She giggled and smiled warmly in his direction when she felt his toned thighs against her skin. "Thank you."

"You're most welcome," Alex whispered as he gazed into her eyes. 

Her eyes were captivating. He could spend a lifetime looking into them. He wished to gaze at the blue orbs whenever he could.

He wondered how someone as sweet as she could exist. Her entire being was like a dream.

Alex took a deep breath, then extended his arm toward her. Hesitantly, he rested his hand on top of hers. His stomach fluttered with a multitude of butterflies.

The two looked at one another. His face was flushed, and her cheeks were rosy. Both of them were struck by how adorable the other was. Neither of them had experience with the opposite sex, so everything that had happened up to the current point was unexplored territory.

Alex was unsure of what to say, and the princess had nothing to add. Somehow, it was relaxing to just sit there together. They didn't necessarily need words to strengthen their bond. It was relaxing, especially for Alexander, who always had to act the part of a duke.

After a moment of silence, the two laughed and gazed into each other's eyes. It was as if their eyes were speaking for them.

The night air was cool and breezy, which was a contrast to how the air felt when the sun burned bright. She didn't realize the days would be hot and the nights cold.

"I'm sorry," Alexander sighed. "I didn't know it would be so chilly."

"No," Corina shook her head. "I love it."

"Are you sure?" He asked with concern.

"I'm not used to the heat," she nodded. "I prefer the light breeze."

"We can go back inside."

"Not yet," she begged. "I would like to spend more time with you."

A grin spread across his lips at her response. He hesitated, but decided to go through with wrapping an arm around her shoulder, pulling her close to him. "Is this a little better?"

"Mhm," Corina hummed.

He leaned in and placed a timid kiss on her forehead. When his lips met with her skin, her eyes closed. She really enjoyed the small act of affection.

"I wish the night would last forever," Corina whispered.

"I wouldn't be able to deny feeling the same."

Corina rested her head against his shoulder, which sent a shiver through Alexander's spine when he felt her soft, blonde locks cascade down his back. It made him wonder what it would be like to be in bed with her, their bodies tangled together. How would it feel to have her lay on top of him, her soft hair brushing against his entire body?

He straightened his posture in embarrassment as he felt parts of him react to the thoughts. He draped his free arm across his lap to hide it from Corina.

Corina opened her eyes and gazed up at his face. "Is something wrong?"

"N-No, nothing at all," he stammered out. It wasn't a lie, as there was nothing negative about how he felt, but he didn't want to admit the real reason for his embarrassment.

Alexander just couldn't. 

"Corina," he spoke, an attempt to distract his thoughts. "Would you like to head inside and share a light meal with me before we retire for the night?"

"Yes," Corina replied.

The blonde didn't want to move from her position. His body was warm, comforting, and larger than her own. She wished they were already married so she could sleep next to him. She enjoyed his warmth for just a moment longer before she stood.

Alexander also stood, then offered his arm to her. She took hold of his arm and leaned close to him as they walked out of the garden, their steps in sync.

The man led her through the castle to a set of double doors in the far back. He glanced up at a gruff, muscular knight who stood guard. "Please have Calvin bring us leftovers from the dinner party."

"With pleasure," the knight bowed, then walked away.

Alexander pulled the door open, holding it open for Corina. "After you."

Corina nodded, then took a few steps inside. She gasped in surprise by how large the room was, and it seemed to be connected to two others, judging by the doors she saw. 

On one side of the room was a polished, intricately carved desk with stacks of papers and other odds and ends on the top. To the opposite end of the room were a small wooden table and two chairs, while the center had a plush sofa positioned over a marvelous emerald rug.

"It's gorgeous, " she breathed out.

"This portion is my study," Alexander stated with pride. "I spent most of my time alone going over documents and writing letters to political leaders. When they visit Mystic, I also hold meetings here."

Corina pointed toward one of the doors. "Where do the doors lead?"

"My bedroom is connected," Alex nodded. "The other door leads to a wash area."

Corina blushed. She didn't realize the Duke had invited her into his personal living space. Receiving such an invitation on her first day in the palace was truly an honor. "You've already led me to your lair," she teased. 

"It's hardly a lair," he laughed in response.

Alex led her to the couch in the center of the room. He waited for her to take a seat before he seated himself. He made sure to sit as close to her as they had been outside, so their bodies touched once more. 

He let out a happy sigh. He could grow use to feeling her body at his side.