Royal Affairs

Chapter 5

(Ember's POV)

   Jonathan and I walked through the halls to the foyer and the main door. I was curious as to who this girl was. I didn't have to wait long because the second we stepped in to the foyer a girl that appeared to be a little older than myself, threw herself into Jonathan's arms.

   I watched as he wrapped his arms around the girl. They stood there in the embrace for a moment longer then the broke apart.

   "I'm sorry. I know you have been working but I just had to see you John," the girl said.

   I watched as Jonathan shook his head. "Don't worry Ann. I haven't been to visit you and a few days. I was put in charge of training the Princess and protecting her."

   The girl, who I now know is named Ann, looked at me and blushed. "I take it that is you?"

   I nodded my head and watched as Ann curtsied. I almost didn't mind watching her submit to me. The second I realized this I felt guilty. "No. Please, none of that."

   Ann stared at me with narrowed eyes. Finally she spoke. "Very well. That is kind of you."

   I chanced a glance at Jonathan. "It just doesn't feel right."

   Ann glanced between Jonathan and me before bringing her gaze back on to Jonathan completely. "I was wondering if we might be able to take a stroll."

   Jonathan looked at me. "I would love to, but I am still on duty."

   When I realized that he wasn't going because he had to guard me I felt joy pass through me at the thought that he was choosing me. Then realization hit again. He had to choose me. I was his duty. I sighed. "I can have Sebastian or another guard take over."

   Jonathan looked at me. Joy filled his expression and he looked as if he was going to agree but then frowned. "I can't allow that. Not only would I be avoiding my duty but your father doesn't trust the other guards to watch you."

   I glared at him. "And why is that?"

   "I can't tell you."

   I threw my hands up. "Of course you can't. I don't understand why I must have guards in the castle. Either way he must trust Sebastian if he allows him to guard me through the night."

    Jonathan thought about that. "I suppose you are right," he said slowly. "How about this. We will walk through the gardens but Ember you must come along as well as Sebastian."

   I smiled. "Very well. I just have one request."

   Ann stood glaring at me but it was Jonathan who answered. "What is that one request?"

   "I must change out of these clothes. They are unsuitable for a lady."

   Jonathan chuckled. "Your father informed me that sometime during the day you are to be fitted for your own personal training uniform."

   I frowned and started waking toward my chambers. "How wonderful."

   Jonathan told Ann to stand at the bottom of the stairs and he followed me down the hall to my chambers. "Are your ladies coming?" he asked.

   I shook my head and slipped into my chambers. I started looking for my most beautiful dress. Once I found a suitable dress I changed out of the training clothes and slipped into the warm water that had been brought up sometime earlier. I quickly scrubbed the dirt off and washed my hair with lemon juice. Once I was finished I brushed my hair. I decided to leave it down. I then slipped into my dress and slid slippers on.