Palace Gardens

Richard was walking along gardens, alone with without guards. He always had a relaxing walk after breakfast. But he stopped suddenly as he saw a young lady sat on the grass, with her naked feet in the water. Stepping closer, he recognized Aurora and surprised

Aurora..I didn't know you were here. May I join you?

He asked hesitantly, remembering their last conversation

Richard took a breath for her answer.Almost ignoring what she said he sat next to her

I know you're angry, Aurora. But I want to say..sorry. I never meant to hurt you. Your confession shocked me. I care for you and I'm surprised that you have doubts about that..

He said. She was looking elsewhere. But he knew she was listening him

Richard smiled as she splashed him with her foot. He looked at her with a tender glance

I was not angry. How could I be angry against you, Aurora? It's just my fault. Sometimes..I can't control my reactions. That's all..

He said removing gently a red curl from her face with his hand

Richard took a deep breath and nodded

Thank you, Aurora. This means a lot to me. You were important in my life, and you still are..

He replied leaning his hand on the grass and looking at her

Richard surprised. She placed his hand on her chest and he could feel her heartbeat. He looked at her in surprise

I..I feel your heart, Aurora. It beats fastly. Ae you alright?

He asked, wondering what she meant for something wrong

Richard frowned. She looked alright until few minutes ago. Now she was feeling suddenly bad. He couldn't avoid to worry

Oh Aurora..you and your sister have such a delicate health. Are you sure you're alright? You look pale..

He added holding her cheek quite worriedly

Richard looked at her in silence for a long moment. It was evindent that she was still suffering. He nodded

Aurora, I just wish to help you. I would do everything for you. So..don't treat me as a stranger, please. Cause you know that we are not. Especially..after what's happened between us..

He answered, feeling that she wanted not involve him in her life

Richard sighed. A tender smile appeard on his lips and he opened his arms. Slowly he pulled her towards himself, leaning softly her head on his chest

I'm here, Aurora. I'm here. I'll never leave you..

He whispered. He felt her so fragile, and he instinctively wrapped his arms around her and kissed softly her red hairs

Richard almost giggled for her request but he nodded. He was caressing her hairs with slow movements

He is fine. Thank God Max is an healthy baby boy. He eats and sleeps all day. I envy babies's life. They have no worries. They only have someone who takes care of them all time. Oh..and don't worry. If you'll fall asleep in my arms, I'll carry you in your bed personally..

He whispered into her ear

Richard frowned suddenly after hearing her revelation. He looked down at her with a perplexed face

What? Are you saying..that Valery asked your help to get rid of Isabella? But..why she did such thing? I..I can't believe that..

He mumbled. He was still holding her in his arms, but his mind was full of deep thoughts

Richard leaned his hand on her head with a thoughtful air. He thought deeply at her words about his niece

I had no idea that Valery acted in such way with you, Aurora. Probably..she is just jealous of Max, cause she fears I will neglect her. You know..she considers me like a father. But I'll talk with her. And about Max..I have intention to recognize him, actually..

He kissed her red hairs again and smile

Many things changed, I can't deny it. But not my affection for you, Aurora..

Richard smiled. He was looking around holding her tightly in his arms

I think you know what affection is, Aurora. And..I love the way you care for me. Only..special friends warn someone about dangers in his own family. And you have no need to be jealous. Children are the most beautiful gift but...there are other beautiful things during life..

He replied, catching the meaning of her words