Chapter 44: Day 62

Because they had returned to their chambers very late, Matthias and Lilia were in the throes of extreme passion when Bella entered their quarters just past dawn. She giggled, excused herself, and left. Three hours later, Lilia rang for Bella.

"I'm sorry, my Lord, my Lady!" Bella exclaimed. "I assumed you would just be waking!"

"It's alright, Bella," Lilia said. "It is no secret we do that a lot!"

"What can I do for you, my Lady?"

"We plan to stay in bed until our meal with the Prince and Princess this evening; you may have the day to yourself."

"Thank you, my Lady!"

Matthias and Lilia went to sleep, and, as she'd said, slept until later that afternoon. When they awoke, they washed, dressed, and joined Prince Robert and Princess Miri for the evening meal.

🎲🎲🎲

Tristan was on his way to a tavern when he saw a very pretty girl at a vegetable stand along a busy street. When he made eye contact, she smiled, so he stopped to speak with her.

"Tristan of Newtown," he said.

"Paula," she replied. "Are you here for the celebration?"

"Indeed, I am! Sir Milos and Lady Karla are friends, and we serve together in Count Matthias' Company."

"That must be exciting! Certainly more than selling vegetables from our family farm."

"Have something to eat with me, and I'll tell you all about it."

"I need to tend the stall until dusk, then put everything away."

"I'm in no hurry," Tristan replied.

"I'm expected home," Paula said.

"Wouldn't you rather have food and ale, and hear some exciting stories?"

"I would, but..."

"If you want to say 'no'," Tristan interrupted, "just say it, and I'll be on my way."

"I do want to join you," Paula said, "but my father would not approve."

"How many years do you have?"

"Almost seventeen."

"Then you are of the necessary age to decide for yourself! Why did you smile at me?"

Paula blushed and looked down.

"Because you are so handsome in your leather armor," she said timidly.

"And I noticed you because you are beautiful! You want to get to know me, and I want to get to know you."

They were interrupted by several customers who bought carrots, cucumbers, cabbage, squash, onions, and more. From what Tristan could discern, they appeared to be regulars, as they greeted Paula by name and didn't try to haggle.

"I promise you'll have a good time," Tristan said when the final customer had moved away with her purchase.

Paula looked uncertain, but before Tristan could say anything, two more customers approached the stall and made purchases. After serving those customers, she began packing her remaining goods into boxes.

"Where do you store the boxes?" he asked.

"In the second basement of the bakery," she replied. "My uncle runs it, and being so far underground ensures it is cool and keeps the produce fresh."