He beamed. “You remember my name!”

She blushed, still reeling from seeing his true appearance. “Of-of course, my lord, it would be an insult to-”

He chuckled her excuses away. “What are you doing so far out? Wouldn’t it be dangerous for one such as yourself?”

She straightened her back in response. “I can take care of myself quite well, my lord. I thank you for the concern, but I know these hills quite well.”

“Of course, of course, my apologies, I meant no offense.”

She cast him a surprised and confused look. “There’s no need to apologize to one such as myself, lord Arstel.”

For a moment a look of very mild frustration passed his face, but it softened again with a smile of amusement.

“Well, this is quite a ways from your home, might I offer you a ride back?”

“Oh, please no, thank you, you’re very kind but I mustn’t-”

“Please, I insist. What would it say about myself if I let a young lady walk home by herself when I had the means to ease her burdens?” He extended his hand out to her from atop his horse.

She blushed again, but could not refuse. Merrium took his hand and let him pull her up into the saddle behind him. For a brief moment she was shocked by his strength, as he seemed to lift her with such ease by only his arm. She carefully held onto his leather armor, keeping only as close as she dared. He was warm, and smelled clean and strangely of flowers. After making sure she was secure he set his horse into a trot back towards Theremore.

“I’m sorry, for any discomfort I give you,” he began. “I never properly introduced myself, but you were very perceptive and quick on your feet.”

“There’s no discomfort my lo-”

“Please,” he interrupted, but not unkindly. “Its okay, I understand. It can’t be easy knowing you're in the presence of royalty.”

Merrium blushed again, but was glad he didn’t see. He cleared his throat awkwardly after the moment of silence.

“Um, anyway...I just wanted to say, there really is no need to be so formal with me. I very much prefer people to speak comfortably and open with me if at all possible.”

“If...if that is really what you desire… I shall do my best then.”

He brightened. “Do you really mean that?”

“Of course, my lord. Our household is to be host to your future visits, it will be our duty to provide you with whatever you may desire.”

“Ah, yeah, about that…” He scratched the back of his head sheepishly. “I’m sorry for the sudden intrusion.”

“It’s no trouble at all,” Merrium assured. “You are providing a great opportunity for our household, we will do our best to repay your kindness and exceed your expectations.”

“Well, I have a little more to look forward to, then,” he said brightly.

Merrium’s homestead began to draw into view, and Arstel seemed to reluctantly slow his horse. He came to a stop at the gate, sliding off first to assist Merrium down to her feet.

“Well...you’re home now,” he said awkwardly.

She smiled a little in amusement as he bashfully searched for other words.

“Thank you very much for the ride,” she said.

He smiled gratefully. “It was my pleasure. It’s of course too late in the evening now, and we’ll be leaving in the morning, but...I do still hope to have your guidance in the future.”

“I’ll have the whole day planned,” she assured, and he beamed.

“I look forward to it,” he said, and then very gently took her hand and pressed her fingers to his lips. “Until next time, then, Miss Merrium?”

Her heart fluttered. “O-of course!”

She watched him ride away in a daze, not understanding what just transpired...again. She clutched the hand he kissed to her chest, feeling warm and scared. What was she to make of this sudden gesture? He is a Prince, she is just a knight’s wife. Wife. Her heart should not be fluttering to such flattery.

Merrium shook her thoughts free and headed back into the house, intending to busy herself once again with prepping dinner. William’s snores continued, but the smell of fresh stew would wake him. As she worked she hummed, unable to help the lightness that had settled in her chest.