Long May She Reign

Kisses (Ep 3)

Out by the lake, Owen sat with his friends, gossiping and giggling between each other.

"Martyn, you're up next. Tell us about your best kiss, not your first one," Owen urged, fanning out her skirts to make herself more comfortable.

Martyn blushed a little and chuckled, "He was not a boy, he was a man," he leaned in closer to the group.

Owen gasped and pushed Martyn's shoulder in excitement, "You have to say who now!"

Martyn shrugged teasingly, "Look, I'll only say this; do not sit and wait for a boy our own age when there are men with experience or deal with your needs in your own."

Owen blushed as her friends giggled, he hid her face in her hand to compose himself.

"That means it's Gabriel's turn," Martyn gestured towards his lifelong friend.

Gabriel pretended to ponder for a moment, "My first kiss is in my close future. I know it's not exciting but you have to understand that my family has no titles so I cannot afford little slip ups," they sighed a little, "I think I found someone to wed, he is a noble man. His name is Tomás and his father is the King of Portugal. He is taking his time on the trade deal he is here to negotiate and I truly believe that it is to stay here with me," he blushed.

Water took Gabriel's hand, "You know that being involved with a prince is dangerous because they must marry for an alliance and you come from common people."

Gabriel squeezed her hand gently, "Tomás is like Scott, a bastard who has favour with his royal father. Tomás, however, has money and land but you must not worry for I am not a fool. A real royal would look at me for no reason apart from to ruin my reputation, I can care for myself," he shook their head a little.

As a servant girl approached quickly, a horse could be heard, "Your Majesty! Your uncle is here!"

Owen sighed and stood, "Which uncle has decided to grace French Court?"

"Claude, Ma'am, Claude de Guise," Sarah curtsied.