A drunk in moonlight

"I just want him to have the childhood I had-it was the best of times. I had no worries or cares-everyday was a day of joy, learning or adventure. There was a wood by our home and beyond that fields which would stretch for miles-the air was pure and clean it was untouched by the world. My brother and I- before Elizabeth was born-would run to the woods and carve pieces of wood-make homes from the bracken and leaves. When Elizabeth was old enough we took her there too-showed her our favourite spots-where the foxes slept at night or where the lark would sing at dawn. I want my son to have that."

Edward then smiled as he realised he dragged on a little,"No I have not met her-but I hear she is quite the little woman. A very precocious child, set in her ways and strong minded. I should think her life very lonely..."

Edward nodded,"With the shape of things to come I pray for that child-I have no doubt that she will encounter many hardships but I also have no doubt that she will fight until her last breath for her birth right."

Edward grinned and folded his arms over his chest and sighed as he looked up to the stars-he saw his favourite constellation and nodded approvingly,"I lived a charmed a life...I think we all wish at some point to return to being a young child. Free of worries or cares...I was never destined to be a duke either. Only in my fathers death did I gain that title and it was greatly unexpected...I do not care for that pomp and grandeur..."

Edward looked to her and grinned,"Well it seems our wishes for our future are very similar..."

Edward looked up and closed his eyes until the music could be faintly heard. He grinned and recognised the tune,"A volta..."he whispered.

Edward laughed,"I would have thought you would have remembered-the first night I met you we danced together. The volta is my favourite...full of passion."

Edward stood up and swept an elaborate bow with a playful grin,"My lady..."

Edward laughed lightly and placed a hand on his chin-pretending to examine her,"Hm...No my lady-you dance with as good a grace as a Queen."

Edward took her hands in accordance with the dance and span her round carefully.

Edward laughed mischievously and as the dance began to reach it's final steps Edward lifted her up gently and span her round. He placed her back down on the ground again and bowed. Once he rose he realised how close they were and though his instincts were to lean closer he took a step back.

Edward laughed and took her hand bringing it to his lips he kissed it softly and then looked up to her warmly. He then realised how intimate this must have looked and let go of her hand,"Thank you..."

He shook his head with a smile,"No...everything is fine..."

Edward nodded and then glanced to the castle,"I better...well I better go back."

He sighed and whispered,"Thank you...again."

Edward nodded and bowed his head,"Good night...my lady."