Finding Normal In Hollyville

Chapter 28

Rose sat with her hands folded in her lap as the king studied her. For some reason his penetrating stare made her want to break out into a smile. Especially because every few seconds he threw a knowing smirk at Edwardus. While he took the time to study her face she found herself doing the same thing to him.

The first thing she noticed was he looked a but frail and tired. His skin was timeworn and wrinkled. His hair was a mixture of dark and white hair, giving it a kind of salt and pepper look.  His eyes had a jaded look to them, she could tell the years of ruling the country had taken a toll on him. It made her wonder if the same would happen to Edwardus. She pushed the nagging doubt aside telling herself she would always be there to help him keep love and laughter in his life.

His goatee and mischievous smile is what helped Rose to feel at ease with him, most men with a short goatee were usually easy going. His voice though was still strong and held a tone of authority that she was sure he used to keep people in line.

"Well Ms. Stevens I can see why my son is so smitten with you. You are indeed a beauty to look at. Your personality is very warm and friendly too." Said the king

"Thank you your highness" Rose replied with a slight bow of her head.

"Oh please my dear. You're carry my first grandchild and you're about to be my daughter in law. You're free to call me Achilles when we're in private"

"Then please call me Rose. It would be an honor"

"As you wish. Son, you have my blessing. It is a great joy to finally see you happy. Happiness is what ice always wanted for you and your sister. I know I've failed you as a father but I plan to right my wrong before I leave these earth"

Rose could feel Edwardus tense beside her. She gave his hand that sat on her leg a comforting squeeze telling him it would all be alright. He looked at her with a look of adoration and a smile in his face before turning to Hus father. However she kept her gaze on him for the simple fact that sometimes it was just too hard not to stare at him.

"Thank you father but please don't talk like that"

She wanted to reach out and smooth away the worry lines from his face but instead she just kept holding his hand.

"Don't worry son. It will all turn out how it's suppose to. You just focus on convincing the prime minister that marrying Rose is what's best and not marry the princess."

"Honestly I don't know why this is even an issue. Nothing more than a spoiled princess wanting to get her own way. Ever since that earthquake literally divided this country its been a nightmare trying to govern the country and the island under the same law. We don't even want the other island anymore. We don't want to become one. That earthquake did us a favor. What they need to do is move on and not stir up war over something so small"

"It will all be alright son. I trust you to make it all right. Just sit the old stubborn coot down and talk to him"

"Yes sir"

"Now if you young folks don't mind. The old man needs to retire to his chambers and get some sleep before the night's festivities"

Rose and Edwardus stood as the king made his way out of the room. His walk was slightly laden and Rose could tell Edwardus noticed it too. When she moved around him and placed her hands in his cheeks and made him look at her, she saw something like guilt in his eyes and it clutched at her heart. Before she could utter a word he brought his lips to hers and kissed her with a desperation she had never sensed in him before. She kissed him back knowing right now this is what he needed. Just to feel close. Just knowing she would always be right there when he needed her.