Summer Party

Richard listened her in silence. He was playing with his finger around his goblet, staring at it. After taking a deep breath, he smiled

I really appreciate your advices, Anna. And I thank you for that. You know..I have the feeling that you're talking about..a certain lady. But..this is not important. I got your message..and I can honesty say that I do not wish other children besides Max, for now. Except from my Queen..if she was here..

He took a sip from wine and looked at her. A teasing smile came on his lips

Do you really think I don't know how to avoid to get a woman pregnant..my Lady?

Anna was liking the path this conversation was flowing at. She turned to face him, crossing her leg. Feel free to indulge this maid. So tell me how does a man control himself. She was eager to know just in case her spouse did they same to Anna in their Marriage.

Richard couldn't avoid to giggle. He turned his eyes around garden, pretending to look at people taking and drinking. Then he looked at her again frowning but still smiling

Ehm..are you serious? I mean..a true gentleman should not talk about certain details..with a Lady. Especially a noble Queen like you are, Anna. I would be very sorry if you felt..shocked by my words..

He said holding his goblet and still keeping his cunning smile

Nothing I say seems to phase you. No it was wrong of me to ask about such things. Anna smiled keeping her eyes fixed on him. What was your life like before you were King. Mine was placid.

Richard smiled softly. He shrugged before taking another sip from wine

No need to apologize, dear Anna. I noticed that many people are curious about my private life..and even my intimate life. But I'll answer to you. I'm not a womanizer, like someone here think. I never sleep with a woman just for fun. I respect every single lady I shared bed with. I have not an harem..

He laughed and turned his eyes towards his guests before looking at her again

My life before being crowned King was very placid too. I love placid life. I used to ride when I was not studying. Or simply I played chess with my brother. I'm a simple man, Anna..

Dear Richard I did not say that you were running a harem! But I am glad to see you have a sense of humour about it. Anna looked at him her mind wondering if he found her attractive. Can I stay until Christmas tide. Long travels make me feel ill. I won't be of any bother to you.

Richard smiled warmly hearing her proposal

Dear Anna..you may stay her as long as you wish. I would be happy and honoured spending Christmas tide in your company. And a beautiful woman like you..shouldn't tire herself in travelling. You're more than welcome here, Anna..

He added leaning for a moment his hand on hers

Anna gave him a smile. He had a certain way to make anyone feel at ease whilst in his company. Anna leaned on the arm of his chair, her eye's looking elsewhere. I can see why the ladies swoon over you, Richard. You make people feel like they are the center of you're world. Will you excuse me I need to retire to my chamber.

Richard gave his goblet to a servant and stood up. He extended his hand towards her and smiled

Of course..I'll let you retire and have rest, Anna. It has been lovely talking to you. Hope you'll honour me with your delicious presence soon..

He said with warm voice. And staring at her eyes, he kissed gently her hand

We shall see dear Richard. I thought you said delicious present. It was to hard not to have a harmless flirt with him. It's hard not to have a laugh with you.

Richard laughed

Oh and I find your irony irresistible too, Anna. A very rare virtue for a woman. I wish you..a very nice evening..

He added bowing with his head and smiling teasingly