Anne Lumley's bedchamber

"Charles raised an eyebrow"

Oh I don't make proposals, usually. Often women thmselves make proposals to me. And...then I think about if accepting ot not...

"He answered, trying to be serious"

She chuckled,"I'm not most girls, Charles-you won't find me begging,"she grinned at him mischeviously.

"Charles leaned his back against the wall and crossed his arms on his chest"

Begging? Oh...I don't see you begging, my lady. Ladies never do that with me...usually. Some are very bold and ask directly what they want. But...I'm sure you're not one of them, Anne...

"He said with a teasing glance in his eyes"

"Not at all, I'll be bold and ask you though...what do you want?"she asked with a smile, surpressing a giggle.

"Charles laughed, leaning back his head"

Uhm...this is a dangerous question to ask, my lady. My answer could be...not good for a gentleman. Ehm...and I consider myself like that...

She faced him bravely with a playful smirk,"I can't trust you if you are not honest with me."

"Charles raised his eyebrow again"

Oh but I'm fully honest to you, my lady. Aren't you?

"He asked, noticing how much her eyes looked bright in the sunlight"

She rolled her eyes,"Of course I am. I told you secrets I haven't told any one."

"Charles smiled"

Oh really? I'm honoured, then. And I assure you...that your secrets are safe with me...

"He said with warm voice, winking again"

"They'd better be,"she said and grinned.

She then walked to her wardrobe and ran her hand through her gowns. She paused at one of red silk and smiled.

"Charles followed her with her glance. Still remaining in his position, he smiled"

I'm sure that dress suits on you, Anne...

"He said staring at her"

She smiled and looked at him,"It's one of my favourites."

She then sat on her bed again, sunlight highlighting her warm skin.

"Charles shrugged"

Why don't you wear it? I would like to see you...

"He added smiling"

She laughed and threw off her velvet night coat, tossing it over to him.

"Wait there,"she said mischeviously and danced behind her canvas screen. She quickly changed herself into the gown; with short sleeves and a little train, edging round her shoulders.

She emmerged and curtsied theatrically.

"Charles looked at her. An admired and amused smile appeared on his face"

You are...beautidul, my lady. Truly. I have no words. The dress suits on you...

"He whispered, realizing he was mumbling stupid words"

She smiled and walked over with hands on hips,"Thank you,"she said lightly and rapped his shoulder.

"Charles smiled her back"

It's just the truth. Do you still have doubts about your beauty?

"He asked with kidding tone, admiring her figure"

She shrugged and sat beside him,"I'm a woman. Comes with the territory."

"Charles nodded. He took a breath looking around room"

I see. Do you usually show this dress to your husband. If you did...his problem would be easily solved...

"He said meaningfully and ironically"

"First time I've worn it. I had it made for my coming to court,"she replied.

"Charles nodded and stood up"

Very well. I'm sure you'll have many occasions to show this dress in court, my lady. Now, forgive me...but I need to go. My wife is surely wondering where I am...

"I am sure she must be. Pass on my congratulations to her,"Anne said as she unlatched the door for him.

"Thank you,"she said and leaned on the door,"You have been most kind."

"Charles reached the door. He smiled and bowed kindly at her"

It has been...a pleasure to meet you, lady Anne. I wish you a good day...

"He smiled again, looked at her once more time and left the room"