Couple Competition

'What was that about? He actually knew who I was?'

While Rosalie was kneading through another wave of uneasy thoughts, she felt a gentle touch fall upon her left shoulder, nearly prompting her to jump out of her skin with shock. 

Matching her astonishment, Damien withdrew his hands, holding them up as if surrendering, and widened his eyes,

"Forgive me, Lady Rosalie. I did not mean to startle you."

With her right hand pressed against her chest, the girl slowly shook her head, the echo of her thumping heartbeat ringing in her burning ears. 

"N-No, it's quite alright, Your Grace. Anyway, you've returned swiftly. Was there a matter of great importance that needed your attention?"

Damien's head shook in negation, mirroring Rosalie's relief.

"Rest assured, it was a trifling concern."

"May I interest you in joining a contest?"