Indeed.
“I apologise, your majesty,” I stated, executing another curtsy. “I have come primarily on behalf of Lady Vera.”
Ashton appeared momentarily relieved.
Lady Vera?He enquired, squinting at me. “What business does Lady Vera have?”
“I have been informed that you, Lady Elsie, Prince Jayce, and Lady Jane will be entering the kingdom this evening,” I elucidated.
He exhaled audibly and nodded, indicating prior knowledge of my impending inquiry.
“Does Lady Vera desire an invitation?””He enquired.”
My eyes expanded as warmth flushed my cheeks.
“Oh goodness no,” I remarked with a nervous chuckle. “In fact, Lady Vera has been feeling anxious recently due to Prince Jayce’s apparent disregard for her.” Notwithstanding her endeavours.
“My brother is exceedingly complex,” Ashton remarked, shaking his head in dismay as he contemplated Jayce.
“She fears he may stray and possibly develop an interest in Lady Jane,” I exclaimed before I could restrain myself.
He was momentarily taken aback, but it quickly transformed into laughter.
Lady Jane is merely a cherished friend to him. She is additionally the sister of his best friend. “Inform Lady Vera that there is no cause for concern,” he stated. “What prompted her to send you to converse with me?””He enquired, with curiosity.”
I was uncertain how to respond. I wished to conceal from him that Ms. Shirley had observed us in the library and harboured suspicions regarding the nature of our friendship. He must remain oblivious to this. Particularly now, as the other maids are likely speculating that Ashton has a preference for me.
I inadvertently chuckled with nervousness.
“I serve as her handmaiden.” “It is my duty, Your Majesty,” I informed him, maintaining my composure.
He scrutinised me for an extended period before nodding gradually.
“I am pleased to assist you in any way possible,” he commenced.
I cleared my throat once more; it was reassuring to learn that he would assist, and Vera would also be gratified. However, she explicitly requested that I enquire if he could be considerate of her this evening, potentially persuading Jayce to engage in intimacy with her. I was uncertain how to broach such a topic.
I consistently perceived Prince Ashton as approachable, which I appreciated; however, our conversations predominantly revolved around literature.
Is there additional information?He enquired, perceiving my unease.
I paused before responding, then nodded slowly and gazed up at him with embarrassment.
“She requests that you subtly suggest to Prince Jayce the importance of paying her greater attention,” I conveyed, feeling a tinge of embarrassment as I continued.
He paused momentarily to evaluate my expression, contemplating my words and comprehending their significance.
Is that correct?“He enquired, elevating his eyebrows.”
“I regret having to approach you for this, Your Majesty,” I articulated slowly.
He laughed once more and shook his head in incredulity.
Ashton gently assured me to inform Lady Vera that she need not be concerned, as he would endeavour to keep him attentive to her.
I smiled at him, gratified by his willingness to perform that favour.
“I express my gratitude, your majesty,” I articulated.
“Is that everything you required?”He enquired.
I acquiesced.
Indeed, your majesty. I value the time you have afforded me. I responded, “Lady Vera will be gratified by the news.”
Inform her that I cannot guarantee the outcomes she desires. “I will certainly make an effort,” Ashton assured me.
I offered him another smile before executing a curtsy.
I replied, “Thank you,” before proceeding to his door.
Molly?”He called out to me; I turned to confront him briefly before departing. ‘Thank you for visiting me.’
(Perspective of Jayce)
What is Molly doing exiting Ashton’s study?
A surge of anger welled within Jayce as he observed Molly exit Ashton’s study and proceed towards the foyer. He remained concealed in the corner to avoid detection.
Would Ashton truly stoop to engage in an affair with a maid while married to the most exquisite woman in the kingdom? It was illogical, and he was not that imprudent.
This was not the first occasion Jayce had observed Molly with Ashton, yet it irked him that they resorted to such extreme measures to conceal their actions, particularly given their ineffectiveness in doing so.
He may have summoned Molly due to her absence at the library, or she may have independently decided to visit him out of longing.
Zayden proposed, “Enquire with a guard to determine if they overheard anything,” as Jayce glanced at a pair of guards stationed outside Ashton’s study.
The guards appeared astonished as Jayce neared them; they both bowed promptly as Jayce cleared his throat.
“The maid who conversed with my brother.” Did you overhear their conversation?Jayce enquired, attempting to maintain a subdued tone to prevent Ashton from eavesdropping from within his study.
They exchanged glances and gazed back at Jayce.
“No, your majesty,” one of them replied. “However, she indicated that she required a discussion with him concerning Prince Jayce…” Um… you.
Jayce dismissed thoughts of Molly for the evening. He surmised the nature of her conversation with Ashton and felt a sense of irritation. It was evident that she desired him intensely, resorting to his brother in an attempt to influence him.
However, that was not a viable option. He had no desire to engage in intimacy with that maid. It was nearly absurd.
