Deception

Chapter 17

A single curl of hair was wrapped around my finger as I curled it slowly. My head resting against the softness of the pillow. The sheets resting over my body as, light escaping into my room as I opened my eyes shyly. I gave a sigh as I rubbed my eyes, today was another meeting of the Nobles. It had been three weeks since I had last seen Robin. Surprisingly it's been quiet, but I have overheard the Sheriff and a man Lucky George I think talking the other day in the castle.

As I slowly got out of bed, my body felt stiff, it ached with every moment as I rubbed the back of my neck. When my feet touched the cold floor I shivered from the different temperature. I struggled standing as if my feet forgot how to hold my weight as I leant against the bed post. I admit I felt slightly dizzy as I shook it off and took the bath that the servants had prepared for me.

The coolness of the water against my aching skin was refreshing. The sweet scent of roses made me drowsy, I must have drifted to sleep whilst I was in the tub since when I got dressed in a deep blue dress with three quarter sleeves. I found my father had already left to for the council of nobles. My hair was neatly designed before I was escorted to Nottingham Castle. A few of the nobles were chatting in the outer hall as I knew the meeting must have finished.

I hastily made my way inside and down the steps as I could feel Guy's stare on my back as I walked to my father's side. He glanced at me for a moment before his eyes were staring over my shoulder as I knew it had to be either the Sheriff or Guy. Probably be Guy staring at me wondering why I wasn't here for the entire meeting, not that it is any of his business.

"You alright?" My father asked as I nodded with a small smile, yet something didn't feel completely right.

"I just over slept" I told him chuckling as I could see he was slightly relieved, I must admit this was probably the best sleep I have had in a while, since I thought I saw that man in the woods way back when. I could hear boots clicking on the stone as my father retreated slightly as I turned to see a smirking Guy as he stood close to me.

"Lady Esme, it's nice to see you here finally" He smirked, I knew he was playing with me as I chuckled slightly.

" I overslept" I admitted shyly as I saw him pull out a silver necklace holding it out for me. It was beautiful, simple and elegant. The Celtic style and the forging made it even more beautiful. He went round me and placed it round my neck, as he stroked my skin as he pulled his hand away. Even through the leather gloves it made my stomach turn uncomfortably as I showed no emotion.

"Do you like it?" He asked me as he came towards me to admire it around my neck. My fingers trailed along the silver metal, it weighed nothing yet I almost felt like it was a burden embarking on my skin.

"Yes, I do, but..." I told him hesitantly, I just didn't want him to think he can buy me.

"It’s simple silver. You have no need of gold or gaudy jewels." He smiled proud, as my father who was watching us from over the corner was then taken away by a few of Guy's men as I gave a small gulp. I didn't want to be left alone with Guy.

"But really, I cannot accept it." My voice was hesitant as he looked at me very confused.