Affair with the King

Part 23

True to his word, Juan returned home to Sarah. He and his company arrived to much fanfare, successful in their battle. She was there to greet him, along with the Queen Mother. Caterina did not bother to attend his welcoming. 

Sarah tried to remain as dignified as Annabelle, watching the men enter the gates from the castle's grand staircase, but as soon as she saw him, she couldn't wait. She had important news to tell him. She ran down the steps as fast as her feet would carry her. He quickly dismounted his horse, ready for her to jump into his waiting arms. He lifted her off the ground, laughing as she showered his face with kisses, spinning her around.

When he placed her down, she searched his face for any sign of wound. He laughed as she fussed over him, finally finding a gash on the back of one hand. "You're hurt!".

"A scratch", he assured her, hooking a finger under her chin to force her to look at him. "I'm home". 

"Thank you, God", she cried, burying her face in his chest, gripping his shirt. 

He kissed the top of her head, stroking her hair. He was touched by the emotion she displayed. 

"I promised you, didn't I?", he asked, gently. 

She looked up at him, eyes shiny with tears. "You did".

"Come", he said, "let's be alone". 

She nodded, allowing him to lead her up the castle steps. He stopped for a few moments, greeting his mother. Sarah stepped away to allow the two a few moments of privacy. She saw Manuel approaching, eyeing one of Annabelle's young ladies in waiting, Marie. Stepping next to Marie she asked what she thought of Manuel.

"He's very handsome", Marie said, blushing. 

"Would you like an introduction?", Sarah asked.

Marie looked at her surprised. "Oh, I'm sure he would have no interest in me".

"I'm almost certain he would!" Sarah laughed, taking Marie by the hand and leading her to Manuel. She introduced the two, Manuel kissing Sarah on the cheek in greeting, then taking Marie's hand and bowing before kissing it. 

"My Lord, you're hurt", Marie said, noting a nasty cut on his neck.

"It's nothing", Manuel insisted. 

"Nonsense", Sarah interjected. "Marie, would you tend to him? As a personal favour to the king?".

Marie curtsied to Sarah. "Of course, my lady". 

"Be kind", Sarah whispered, as she hugged Manuel goodbye. "Or you shall have me to deal with". 

He laughed, embracing her as he would an old friend. Sarah left the young couple, returning to Juan. 

"What are you up to?", he asked, amused by her obvious attempt at matchmaking. 

"Not everyone is as bold as you were with me", she teased. "Some need a little push in the right direction". 

He laughed, turning his attention back to his mother. "My lady, may I please borrow your lady. I am grievously injured and need a fair maiden to tend to my well being as well". 

She smiled at her son. To Sarah, she said, "please tend to the cut on his hand. I will see you at dinner?".

Sarah curtsied, thanking her. Juan bowed, kissing her hand. They left Annabelle, hurrying to their suites. As soon as they were behind closed doors, he had her pressed up against them, kissing her hungrily. She was eager to receive his affection, missing his touch greatly, but she had the news.