Sophia de la Cerda Posted November 26, 2018 Share Posted November 26, 2018 The Toledo Group “We can discuss it when you come for tea,” Sophia whispered back to Sarah. Since she didn't specify that a request to dance from her husband didn't count, it probably did. But that was a topic for another time. Did Esteban think they were whispering about him, she wondered? Sarah seemed to know Davina's brother. Esteban agreed to introduce her to the Danish Ambassador and when she greeted both gentlemen, Sophia help up her hand to be kissed. No mention was made of Davina, so she assumed that Viscount Baintree wasn't worred about her absence. She was probably enjoying the entertainment in one of the other rooms. The Ambassador asked Sarah to dance and she bid her new friend farewell and let her husband lead her to the dance floor. “I've enjoyed myself so far. Mistress Jennings is a lady-in-waiting to the Duchess of York. In fact, I met the Duchess before the ball. She is very nice.” Unlike her dreadful husband. Sophia thought that Esteban would be pleased that she had made the Duchess' acquaintance, since she was royalty and also Catholic. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Francis Kirke Posted November 28, 2018 Share Posted November 28, 2018 On 11/10/2018 at 3:02 PM, Aria said: Francis and Frances To Frances' delight, Lord Kingston did approach her. She admired his tall figure as he bowed to her and smiled when he greeted her. “Happy New Year to you too, my lord.” The Duchess flicked her fan at him playfully. “Oh. you know me too well! Unfortunately, there's been nothing new, but who knows what will happen before the night is over? And how have you been enjoying the ball so far?” She fervently hoped that he would ask her to dance. "It would not be a proper celebration if nothing scandalous happened at all!" Francis replied. "Someone must have tied Rochester up somewhere. And those little Moustachio-ed fellows." He giggled at the thought of a bunch of the worst troublemakers restrained in a room. Unfortunately the proper sort would never come up with such a hilarious way of preventing anything interesting from happening. "I have enjoyed it quite a bit, but have been remiss in my desire to seek out a certain lady under the mistletoe and wondered if your supreme graceness might be persuaded to aide me in my quest?" He blinked at her innocently, almost as if hiding the rest of his face behind a fan of his own. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blackguard Posted November 28, 2018 Author Share Posted November 28, 2018 Oxford Group The kisses went well enough. There was hardly room for any complaint. 'It was a pleasure to make your acquaintance Mademoiselle," the Earl bid her as Nicci made ready to depart. "Yes," Lady Oxford was compelled to agree. "You must call upon us before the season is through," Oxford continued, this time not seconded by his wife. "You and Sir John," he added, so as to not create the impression that he had designs on the French girl himself. John was not in a position to answer for Nicci but his look indicated that he was ready at any time. As they walked away, John inquired, "what did you think of them? You will like them even more when you get to know them better." Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blackguard Posted November 28, 2018 Author Share Posted November 28, 2018 The Toledos Baintree bid them farewell, looking about to determine his next encounter. Had he known of the sort of entertainment his sister was enjoying in another room, he would have had a much different purpose. Instead, he wandered over towards Osbourne and Churchill. They had invited him to join them for drinks. They would have questions about his sister as well. "A good acquaintance then," Sophia's husband replied. "She is Catholic then?" He would think more of Sarah if true. He assumed that a lady serving a Catholic Duchess would be a Catholic herself. There was little time for conversation as the last dance before midnight was upon them. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Aria Posted November 28, 2018 Share Posted November 28, 2018 Francis and Frances “The Merry Gang's antics are nothing new. I did hear that Rochester hurt himself while trying to ...” The Duchess hesitated, and a blush fluttered across her pale cheeks. “He was trying to kiss his own backside. Why anyone would attempt such a foolish thing is beyond me. And some lady that nobody had ever seen before supposedly appeared out of nowhere and defeated Dorset in a limerick contest, but I'm not inclined to believe that one.” Frances was flighty but she caught onto some things quickly and Lord Kingston's innocent look, while quite adorable, didn't fool her. “Of course I'll assist you,” she said with a sly smile. “Though I think you should know that some ladies prefer to dance with a gentleman before meeting him under the mistletoe. Maybe that is why she is not currently standing beneath it." Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sophia de la Cerda Posted November 28, 2018 Share Posted November 28, 2018 The Toledos “No, she is like me … a Protestant in a Catholic household.” Sophia knew that Esteban wanted her to convert, and she was almost ready to do it. In truth, she didn't understand why being one or the other was such an issue. All Christians worshiped the same God, so why did they have such diverse beliefs and why did they not all get along? They should be united against heathens, not squabbling with each other. “I like her. We first met last spring, after we returned from Brighton.” By that time, Sophia had joyfully surrendered her virtue to Don Juan and she and Esteban had already discussed marriage. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Raconteur Posted November 30, 2018 Share Posted November 30, 2018 Toledo Group Sarah was left with the Ambassador as Viscount Baintree took his leave somewhat determindly she thought as she watched his retreating back. The Toledo's then went to dance and Sarah had nodded quickly at the Baronesses words regarding further talk. "I shall be happy to accept a dance if you wish it. I am most agreeable either way and shall take no offense if you wish to leave. We can wish the other the Happiest of New Years." Sarah was sincere in her words. She would dance or take her leave it was up to the Ambassador. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blackguard Posted December 3, 2018 Author Share Posted December 3, 2018 The Toledo Group Esteban looked mildly disappointed to learn that Sarah was a Protestant. "Unfortunate. Come, let us dance," he beckoned. Off to the dance floor they went. Her husband was a fine dancer, as she knew. It was the final dance before midnight. When completed, the Baron smiled to his wife, complimented her dancing, and escorted her from the dance area as the King's herald announced "Ladies and gentlemen, it is now midnight and a new year has dawned. God Save the King and may God bless 1678 for the Three Kingdoms!" Chapel bells could be heard to ring in the background. It was a time to offer wishes to those standing near, or for a gentleman to offer a kiss to a lady that caught his fancy, or convenience. Esteban, kissed his wife politely on the lips. "Happy New Year Wife." Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Francis Kirke Posted December 4, 2018 Share Posted December 4, 2018 Francis nodded, "Oh, to be sure, to be sure." He smiled. "I am no lazy fellow." He had fully intended upon dancing with her anyway, without her extra encouragement. "That is, in fact, where I might require your aid." Clearing his throat with a hint of comical drama, he asked, "Would you like to dance?" (OOC - I'll let you decide if they make the last dance or if the bells ring before ) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Aria Posted December 5, 2018 Share Posted December 5, 2018 Francis and Frances The Duchess didn't know that Francis had already planned on dancing with her and thought that he asked because of her not-so-subtle hint. She had made veiled suggestions to gentleman before and saw nothing wrong with it as long as she got what she wanted from them, which was always something proper, like a dance, a stroll around the gardens, or a simple compliment. She chuckled when he cleared his throat, as if he was afraid she would refuse him. “Hmmmm,” she said, tilting her head and studying him in an equally comical way. “I suppose you'll do.” Frances let him lead her to the dance area and they took their places as the musicians began to play. She was a fine dancer, performing the steps with grace and style. She had danced so much over the years, it came nearly as natural to her as breathing. The Duchess smiled at Francis when they came together, but not in a flirtatious way. She loved gossip, but she preferred that it not be about her. When the dance came to an end, she curtsied. “Thank you, my lord. I thoroughly enjoyed our dance and I believe the lady you seek will be impressed. Maybe she will find a sprig of mistletoe to stand under.” They had just left the dance floor when the bells began to ring and the herald announced the arrival of the new year. The Duchess' eyes widened. She usually spent this moment gossiping with her friends, and she had not shared it with a gentleman since long ago when His Majesty had been smitten with her. “Happy New Year, Lord Kingston. I can think of nobody else I would rather ring in the new year with.” Would he kiss her in celebration, even though there was no mistletoe above them? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sophia de la Cerda Posted December 5, 2018 Share Posted December 5, 2018 The Toledos Sophia sighed. It seemed as if Esteban didn't think a lady could be a good friend to her if she wasn't Catholic. Her willingness to convert changed after she heard her husband's words. She would remain a Protestant now, no matter how much pressure he put upon her to embrace his faith. If she was to make such a life-changing commitment, than so should he … by realizing that religious beliefs did not make a person good or bad. All Christians were equal in the eyes of God. Did her husband think he was a better judge of character than God? She forgot her irritation when the dance began. The Toledos might not always see eye to eye, but they danced splendidly together. The young blonde performed the steps with her usual youthful enthusiasm, adding creative and graceful embellishments and an extra twirl or two. As the last note of music hovered on the air, she accepted his compliments graciously and took his arm so that he could lead her from the dance floor. Suddenly, church bells began to ring and the King's hears announced the arrival of the new year. Esteban was not the person that Sophia wanted to ring in the new year with and she wondered how Juan was spending this moment in Madrid. Thinking of her, she hoped, for she was certainly thinking of him. Her husband kissed her with his customary indifference. Juan would have ravished her lips with passion. “Happy New Year to you too,” she said, trying to sound more excited than she felt. She missed her beloved Prince so much. “If there's to be another dance, we should dance together again so that our year will be filled with happiness and prosperity.” Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nicolette Vauquelin Posted December 8, 2018 Share Posted December 8, 2018 Oxford Group "Then let us all attend the Parade together!" Nicolette suggested as the Oxfords proved agreeable to growing their relationship (attending the end of season Military Parade in this mans company was surely the cleverest thing she'd planned all night!) John was agreeable, and so she looked prettily to the Earl for his agreement before they sashayed away to the dancefloor. To the Dancefloor (& Ru?) Her Baron was being very charming tonight. Nicolette crooned, "La, I think they are just adorable." What use she could make of the association was impossible to guess right now, but she had a good feeling that it was a positive step. (Look how Oxford had transformed Johns future!) "Ooooh, but is that the Prince of the Rhine, let us dance near to him...." Nicci was already lining herself up for her next conquest. New Years bells would be an ideal excuse to kiss the prissiest Prince in England! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Charles Audley Posted December 9, 2018 Share Posted December 9, 2018 Charles, returning to the ballroom He was perhaps a trifle late for the last dance, Charles thought, consulting his pocket watch to confirm his suspicions. Unfortunate, but frankly that was a cheap enough price for the time spent with Juliana. Satisfied smile playing about his lips, Charles strolled to the corner, snagging a glass of brandy from a passing servant as he walked. Cocking a hip, he leaned against the wall and sipped at his drink, idly running his eye over the dance floor. There were doubtless a thousand other things he could and should have been doing (seeking out his stepmother and seeing how things had gone between her and Arthur came immediately to mind), but for now he was content to savour his brandy and observe the great and the good of court in all their pomp and splendour. He could look for Mary once the year had turned and his brandy was gone. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blackguard Posted December 10, 2018 Author Share Posted December 10, 2018 The Toledos Sophia seemed happy, which was good. Esteban nodded. "I believe there will be one last dance." he looked about for an indication to support his speculation. Usually there was one dance in the New Year. Everyone in the crowd seemed busy kissing their partners and the room was abuzz with loud voices and well-wishes. It seemed as though there might be a ten minute interlude and the musicians not yet packing up for the evening. "Let us get some holiday punch." He moved her in that direction, hoping that the laced punch would make her sleepy and ready to retire. The Oxford Group "That sounds like a pleasant day," the Earl offered before his wife could conjure an excuse to decline. How could she not want to attend a parade? Surely she would understand that it was important for John to impress his lady friend. As they walked away, midnight was announced and John boldly moved to kiss the French lady. "Happy New Year," he bid her as he moved in for a kiss. Prince Rupert was not dancing, given the pain in his leg, but he was nearby and John was agreeable to making the introduction. "Come, I will introduce you." Fighting their way through the crowd they came upon the Prince, who shifted his attention to the couple as they approached. He had just bid farewell to another gentleman that had gone in search of his wife. "Your Grace, may I introduce Mademoiselle Vauquelin?" Burgoyne offered. he was known to the Prince, though not well. "Lady Misrule as I understand it," he acknowledged as he managed a brief smile. "A pleasure." He was guarded in his manner as he suspected that they had arrived to play some prank upon him. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sophia de la Cerda Posted December 10, 2018 Share Posted December 10, 2018 The Toledos “I hope so,” Sophia replied. She wasn't ready to leave the festive sparkle of the ball for the loneliness of her dreary house. Esteban would probably desert her as soon as they arrived. “There should be one to start out the new year.” After that, she wouldn't be able to stall anymore. At least she had memories of her tryst with Lord Arundel and the promise of seeing him again to keep her company. She felt a bit guilty for cheating on Juan, for it was him she loved above all others. Yet she didn't really regret what she had done. Sophia nodded at her husband's suggestion and let him lead her toward the refreshment tables. “Where were you all evening?” she asked him. “I was looking for you but it seemed as if you had completely disappeared.” Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nicolette Vauquelin Posted December 11, 2018 Share Posted December 11, 2018 (edited) The Oxford Group Nicolette flashed a brilliant smile as they (well, Lord Oxford) agreed! "I cannot wait!" Sometimes life was just so wonderful! All about them Christmas glittered, lights decorations, music and laughter abounded, and it seemed like everything she wanted could be hers! Lord Bougogne was especially generous, and this recent boldness he was showing her was rather attractive too! So as the chimes tolled their midnight Nicci was all too happy to celebrate the turn of a new year with a enthusiastic kiss. Her arms went fully around his neck, her eyes squeezed closed and she imagined herself to be kissing the King, or Francis, or Louis, or Buckingham. Though when she opened her eyes again it was still John. She grinned. John who was currently giving hr everything within his power... It was rather nice she had to admit. Perhaps later she could kiss him again, properly, in private. Gently, to experience the tenderness she knew him to possess. Her eyes flared with her private promise, but then she was all caught up in he excitment of it all again! And here they were pressed in upon the Prince. Knowing his attention to etiquette by repute, she dipped a curtsy "Your Grace, I had so hoped I might one day meet you!" Which was entirely true. And apparently Cumberland already knew of her. "Does my misrule extend to such heights as your own? May I commandeer a New Years kiss to begin the year right!" she cheerfully asked while giving her Barons hand a squeeze. Edited December 11, 2018 by Nicolette Vauquelin Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blackguard Posted December 13, 2018 Author Share Posted December 13, 2018 Toledos "I have been speaking with key lords sympathetic to our cause -- Norfolk, Bristol, and Cumberland. Diego and Maria have been well-placed to listen," Esteban explained, as if Sophia was questioning what progress he was making. "I find it difficult, however, to get much serious talking done." Nicolette Unlike many, the Prince was more wary of bestowing Christmas kisses freely. This was a time for pranks and he worried that too much holiday punch would make younger gentlefolk do something ill-advised. Nicolette's own words about comparing her misrule to his sounded the product of too much libation. In a different circumstance, it could be viewed as an insult. It became clear that she was there just to collect a kiss. The silly thoughts that go through a young girl's minds. It was the holiday, so kisses flowed more freely. He supposed it was flattering in a way. What man would want to have no young ladies wish to kiss him any more? She seemed to have an escort, so there was little enough risk of Peg getting jealous. "Very well," Rupert assented. "Happy New Year Mademoiselle." He bent down to give her a chaste holiday kiss. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sophia de la Cerda Posted December 13, 2018 Share Posted December 13, 2018 The Toledos “It's a ball, Esteban,” Sophia laughed. “I'm not surprised that few gentlemen wished to discuss serious subjects. This is a chance for them to leave their concerns behind for a little bit and just enjoy themselves. Follow up with them in a day or two and they will be more willing to talk politics. What is it that you are trying to achieve?” She doubted that he would tell her, but it couldn't hurt to ask. "And do you think it would help if I got to know their wives?" Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nicolette Vauquelin Posted December 13, 2018 Share Posted December 13, 2018 John, Nicolette, Ru & Peg It was practically guaranteed at the turning of a new year in the middle of a ball, but Nicci happily claimed it as though victorious! Her smile triumphant as they separated. Did the mastermind of military strategy have any appreciation for her female manoeuvring to claim that prize? Probably not. "Hurrah to the New Year!" called she, now turning to the Morganic wife to add, "I only wish that there was some cheery custom we ladies might also share between us, Mrs Hughes. Hmm... which has me wonder if the custom was invented by a gentleman!" she winked. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Francis Kirke Posted December 14, 2018 Share Posted December 14, 2018 On 12/5/2018 at 3:15 PM, Aria said: They had just left the dance floor when the bells began to ring and the herald announced the arrival of the new year. The Duchess' eyes widened. She usually spent this moment gossiping with her friends, and she had not shared it with a gentleman since long ago when His Majesty had been smitten with her. “Happy New Year, Lord Kingston. I can think of nobody else I would rather ring in the new year with.” Would he kiss her in celebration, even though there was no mistletoe above them? Francis & Frances Francis chuckled as she was kind about his dancing. He was now passable, but he was far more graceful with a sword and other different kinds of dances. He smiled as the bells rang, "Happy New Year, Your Grace." There was no mistletoe, but he found her words to be permission. How else might one ring in the New Year with a gentleman one was not married to but with a kiss? He did spare a moment to raise a brow to give her time to present a cheek or protest. Then he leaned forward to give her a soft kiss on the lips to celebrate the moment. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blackguard Posted December 16, 2018 Author Share Posted December 16, 2018 Toledos "War," Esteban was quick to reply amid the loud murmur of the crowd. "As such, it is the business of husbands I fear." Spain was not certain that England had the necessary appetite to join the war against France. The King's sympathies were well known. Thus, it depended upon others who might apply pressure to the throne to make good on the English people's wishes. Nicolette Peg Hughes had just recently rejoined the Prince. Like many spouses, she had come to claim the midnight kiss. Earlier in the ball she had been mingling with a young group of courtiers that did not know enough to dismiss her for the actress she was. "We already have a cheery tradition," Peg replied to the French beauty.. "It is called receiving gifts from our male admirers!" Peg was known to have expensive tastes for one born into modest means. The Prince gifted her all sorts of fancy jewelry and she encouraged him to do more. She had plenty of gambling debts to cover. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nicolette Vauquelin Posted December 19, 2018 Share Posted December 19, 2018 John, Nicolette, Rupert & Peg Nicolette had half expected Peg to be as wary and reserved as Lady Oxford had been, and so now she doubly appreciated the woman’s plucky reply. "That is my favourite tradition! Are you suggesting that our gentleman are just trying to distract us with all these kisses?" Nicolette laughed brightly before thinking of a certain gentleman who was avidly listening. How well of was John anyhow? How short sighted of her not previously have lodged enquiries. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Aria Posted December 20, 2018 Share Posted December 20, 2018 Francis and Frances The Duchess did not protest or turn her cheek toward him. Lifting her chin, she met his eyes and favored Francis with a coy and expectant smile. Frances wanted him to kiss her, and this was the perfect excuse. Sometimes she had flashes of recollection from that hazy night in Brighton and she wished that she could remember all of it. Maybe his kiss would awaken those suppressed memories. Francis kissed her gently and the taste of his lips seemed familiar. A sudden jolt of yearning startled her, as if her body could remember what her mind could not. Fortunately, his kiss was brief, and Frances didn't have to embarrass either him or herself or him by abruptly pulling away. He might see confusion flicker across her face momentarily but her customary graciousness quickly returned. “I think that the lady you were looking for might be jealous of me now,” she said, a playful smile turning up the corners of her lips. “I hope I haven't ruined your chances with her.” Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sophia de la Cerda Posted December 20, 2018 Share Posted December 20, 2018 The Toledos “It's not surprising that nobody wants to talk about war at a celebration,” Sophia remarked. “And don't underestimate the influence that some wives have over their husbands. I would never discuss such things myself, but if their wives grow fond of me, they may urge them to support you because of our friendship.” She wasn't certain about becoming friendly with the Duchess of Norfolk, considering that she was having an affair with her son. Henry would probably not appreciate his mistress becoming close to his mother. Nor could she urge him to persuade his father to Esteban's cause. He would think that she was only using him when in truth, their relationship was based on mutual affection. At least that was the way she believed it to be. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Robert Saint-Leger Posted December 21, 2018 Share Posted December 21, 2018 Beverley & Finch, Beverley Looks for his Wife Quote Beverley and Finch "Excellent, shall we say two o'clock?" the Chancellor offered. He preferred to do his reading of books and manuscripts in the morning while he was fresh. "Official, yes I see," the older man acknowledged after Beverley sought to clarify things. "I cannot say that I know much about finance," Finch was quick to disclaim. "I am a man of the law. But then, you know that." His mind considered the possible paths that Rupert might take to raise money. "I shall be happy to be of assistance if I can. If you tell me the idea, I would be happy to have the issue researched in advance of our meeting," he offered. "Yes, shall we meet at your office?" he asked. "I believe the, erm, legality if more of concern. If there might be any legal, well, loopholes for reviving other ways of funding naval matters outside of just Parliament. Methods, of course, which would not enrage the populace." He added the last bit in quietly. He recognized the potential issues with embarking on such courses of action. The martyred King had revived archaic duties and taxes outside of Parliamentary control, and that had clearly not ended well. "Though given that the, erm, people seem to wish war with France perhaps it is not as much a risk to seek more expedient ways of making sure we are pre-prepared to meet the, erm, French threat. The banks surely d-didn't deliver." So far as Beverley knew, they both knew that there was not actually any intention of going to war...only to capitalize on pretending they were going to war. That, however, could not be voiced even in insinuation, for as far as he knew only the Privy Council was, well, privy. Part of the reason for pretending was not just to get coin from foreign powers in the treaty process, but to recoup coin to pay their naval arrears as well. And get fancy cannon in the bargain and perhaps a marine regiment as well. "But I shall not take more of your time this evening, my lord. I should seek my wife." After taking his leave Beverley sought out his wife to share the rest of the evening and a midnight kiss. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Francis Kirke Posted December 21, 2018 Share Posted December 21, 2018 Francis smiled at her words and then leaned in and whispered in her ear, "What lady?" "We both know I was looking for you," he replied, flirtatiously. "And I would have asked you to dance even if you did not say so." He gave her a cheeky wink. "Though I daresay we have made a number of people jealous. Well done, us." He chuckled. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Aria Posted December 24, 2018 Share Posted December 24, 2018 Francis and Frances “You were?” The Duchess of Richmond gasped melodramatically and placed one hand over her heart. “Why I had no idea!” Her saucy smirk and the laughter in her eyes would tell Francis otherwise. She could jest with few other gentlemen the way she jested with him. And he made her feel pretty. He was able to look past the scars on her face to the woman beneath. He wasn't the only one, but some gazed upon her with pity, which she abhorred. She did not let her disfigurement define her and was still quite popular at court. “Well, I've made some ladies jealous anyway,” she remarked. “So what do we do now? We should spend these moments in a way that will ensure that 1678 will be a successful year for both of us.” Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blackguard Posted December 28, 2018 Author Share Posted December 28, 2018 Beverley The intent was made clear. No doubt it would be the issue of royal prerogatives versus those of Parliament. "I see." He had spoken often to the King, May and even Dandy on the subject. "My office would be best." Finch preferred the confines of his office, surrounded by legal tomes that were his own castle walls. "Yes, attend to your wife by all means. Tonight is not the night to discuss business." Rather, his inquiry had been to prepare him for the research he must accomplish before the meeting. He was expected to know the answers to difficult questions and, as such, preparation was a key component. With a friendly smile, Finch was on his way. He was still worried about his youngest son and had hoped to see him here. Mary was with the Queen's circle. By her presence on the outer edges of the circle, it did not look as thought she has fully ingratiated. She looked gratefully at her husband as he approached to join her. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blackguard Posted December 29, 2018 Author Share Posted December 29, 2018 The Toledos "That is a possibility," Esteban acknowledged while, at the same time, doubting it. Leaders did not let their wives tell them what to do, or so he imagined. He was still relatively young, but the roles of most women were relegated to household and child care functions. It is what he had observed countless times. He looked about eager to take his leave. For him, the evening was at its logical conclusion. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blackguard Posted December 29, 2018 Author Share Posted December 29, 2018 Nicolette "I see kisses as just a promise of what is to come later," Peg replied to Nicci's jovial observation. By that she meant gifts as well as the carnal. The insinuation was plain , which caused the Prince to grumble and shift his stance, as if signaling Peg that she had crossed a line with her wit. John was uncomfortable of the talk mostly because he realized that he would need to be thinking about a gift for Nicolette where, but an hour before, there had been no need for one. His best option was to stay silent at this point. Sensing her partner's discomfort, Peg lifted her long auburn hair to display a large emerald earring. "His Highness has already gifted me these beautiful earrings. He shows me admiration most appropriately." She gave a grateful smile to Rupert and laid her hand upon his arm gently. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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