Raiyne/ Juniper Victorian romance (private)

  Amberlee chuckled when he said he hadn't thought of punishments yet. That threat is less scary knowing you don't actually have a punishment in mind, she thought. She also didn't feel so picked on having heard that event he older maid had to read through and study the books. She repositioned the books to be more comfortable. "Don't worry, I'll be sure to study the books as best I can. Although I am not sure why I can't just do both, work for you and study the books during my off time?" she shrugged. She felt like she could be more open to him when he was out here and they were alone.

When Andres stopped them in their tracks, Amberlee turned her gaze to him, a mischievous smile tugging at her lips. Her heart longed to reach out to him, almost enough to compel her to embrace him. Almost. But she blinked when he told her to focus on him, and subconsciously did just that. She grinned wider when he acknowledged she was rebellious, but that smile faded when it said it had to stop. She parted her lips to speak, to chirp him, but he kissed her. This time, the kiss was fierce. 
Amberlee nearly dropped the books. 
The touch of his hands to her neck, and his kiss, made her heart race. And just as she was most enjoyed it, he stopped again. This time, she couldn't stifle the moan in time, and a little whine slipped from her when he stopped. When he walked on, she scowled, "why do you always do that?" she snapped, then grabbed him by the arm and pulled him back toward her, standing on the balls of her feet to kiss him again while holding onto his arm. She broke the kiss after a moment, "you take my breath away only to leave me wanting more. That's cruel," she whispered against his lips, then stepped away, blushing at her own forwardness. She cleared her throat, "what I mean to say is, I will do my job. When I work for you, I will try to obey your rules and orders," she said softly, her gaze fixed to his as she stood still. 

Last edited on 2022-02-04 at 00:23:36 by Raiyne

Andres considered her suggestion. And when he really thought about it, he sighed “ Well,  when you say it that way… I can hear in your voice that you are really willing to work hard.” He spoke  in a gentler tone as he continued walking  she’s a feisty one… gotta keep her under control though.. he thought as he reached the house “ I will come to the forge to check up  on you  every few days, to see how you are doing on your… assignments. Until then, I will have a list of small things for you to to do. “
He stood in front of Amberlee once more and this time,  let the kiss linger for a minute longer.  I hope the kiss will keep her in line.  “ Now.. get reading. “ he walked her to the door and stopped so she could pass him “  If you have any questions or concerns…. You know here to find me”
 
He gave her a smirk before turning himself around and slowly headed back home, playing with the kids on his way home. “ Now who was it I owed a piggy back ride?” he laughed as a little girl of eight years old   ran to him and smiled “ Me, your Majesty” her voice ringing like bells on wedding day. Her hazel eyes never leaving his for a moment, her smile as wide as the horizon.
                                
“ That’s right. “ Andres said with a laugh as  he kneeled onto one knee as Bree got onto his back before he stood up, “ Hold on tight, little one” he said and without warning ran around like he was a kid all around the town, making Bree laugh.” But he then remembered about his father and his own duties before he stopped and let Bree come back to earth. “ You best run along now. I have business at home”
 
The kids whined, but they knew he was royalty and  had better things to gdo than be with the kids at this hour. “ I will be back when im  free and maybe… just maybe I’ll take someone special out along with te group of you and catch up on old times”
He hugged each of the kids before whistling the whole way back to the house.
When he reached the house, he grabbed an apple and headed up to his  fathers study to talk to him about what he had planned.  And if he hates my idea… well too bad.  He thought as he knocked.

" Father... we need to talk about my plans with Amberlee since she agreed to being a maid in your household... but under my rules and commands" he didn't even let his father speak thought.. at least just yet. " I have given her the to books that were needed and she promised that she would  read them hen on her breaks as she works for me. The only worry I have is her  fiestyness and possible disobedience. "

" Well, she is your responsibility. not mine, son. You do what you see fit. " His father said looking up from his work " You are the  next one in line and I wont  stand in your way of ruling when you have someone to.... train." He gave a laugh before looking back at his work. Leaving Andres to ponder his words.

When he was finished talking with his father, he headed back to the stables to finish grooming and un-tacking the horses and let them free roam where they pleased. Including the forest where his mother and himself went to a few days prior.

Last edited on 2022-02-05 at 10:48:53 by Juniper

  Amberlee's heart skipped a beat when he kissed her longer, and smirked at her before her left. Feeling particularly giddy, she floated into the house. Once inside, she immediately began ready through the first book, Rules.

Amberlee was a few chapters in, when her stomach began growling something fierce. "I should probably get something to eat," she mumbled to herself, "considering one of t he very first things this book says is to keep myself and my body fit, clean and cared for so that I may better serve my lord," she sighed then chuckled, "I better work on the rebellion, if only for his sake. But he keeps rewarding me with kisses whenever he tries to get me in line...positive reinforcement for a supposed undesired action isn't going to work to dissuade me from doing the apparent bad thing," she chuckled as she grabbed an apple, a small slice of cheese, and some of last night's bread for lunch.

During her meal, she had read a few pore pages. At this point, fascination took over. Some of the rules were simply ridiculous in her opinion. But some where actually rather interesting. So far, most were common sense. The usual, don't interrupt, always curtsy or bow, be punctual, don't argue - that last one she knew she would have trouble with. After her meal, she decided to head out to the forest to find some mushrooms, edible herbs, and see what other wonders the forest had to offer. Of course, the book was packed in her satchel as well.
It was that time of the year when she had to trek deeper and deeper into the forest to find what she was after. She didn't mind, of course, it gave her time to simply enjoy her surroundings. But it did mean being away for longer. She found sweet berries as well, much to her own joy. She had thought they were all done by now. 

Amberlee decided to take a little rest in a small clearing. She perched herself atop a large boulder, and continued reading the book she was to study. She would read a few rules, then think on them a moment, attempting to commit them to memory. "There sure are alot," she breathed, "I hope I can remember them all." 
Her brows furrowed as she read one in particular. She blinked and brought the book closer, as if her eyes were deceiving her. "Always avert your eyes when you help your lord or lady dress, and keep your hands disciplined, so that you won't be lead into temptation..." she cocked her head, "wait, I'm supposed to help him dress?" she asked herself aloud, "how am I supposed to do that with averted eyes?" She tried figuring out how she would, but her mind quickly betrayed her and strayed into sinful territory, which caused her to blush as red as the berries in her satchel. "Oh, no no," she said, slamming the book shut, "I'm sure he won't ask me to do that. So, we'll just pretend that entire part of the job doesn't exist and simply move on with life," she mumbled nervously, stuffing the book into her satchel. She was about to head home when she heard horses nearby. She tilted her head, "odd," she whispered, then decided to go investigate. 

Sneaking toward the sound, she soon discovered none other than a black and a chestnut. Upon closer inspection, she recognized them as Andres' horses. She smiled, "well well, I hardly expected to find you two here today," she chuckled, slowly approaching the mares. She clucked her tongue, while she approached, an outstretched hand offering berries to the mares, "they're sweet and juicy. And won't do you any harm. If anything, they might actually be good for you," she reassured. She reached out her second hand and gently stroked Cardriel when she approached, "I wonder, did you two venture this far in, or did I venture that far from home?" she wondered, "and by the looks of it, you're here without him this time," she sighed, a little disappointed, "no matter, I'll be working for him soon enough."

She spent some time simply petting the mares and talking to them. She even braided a small piece of Cardriel's mane and tied one of her hair ribbons into the mare's mane. "There, that suits you wonderfully," she smiled to herself. The forest green ribbon was a stark contrast to the mare's red coat, but it still looked lovely. "I should be heading back. And so should you two," she said to the mares. She gave them each a last pet, then turned and walked away. A few steps later, she turned, waving to them, then jogged away. She had to make it back to her little cottage and get dinner started. 

Cardriel and Ternura let her touch, talk and even braid their mane to just pass the time. The only reason why they were even out in the forest, was because of the sweet grass that grew.  Half of their diet came from eating the grass. Besides that, they got grains, carrots, apples, oats, sugar cubes, and many other foods to fill their hunger. But berries were a special treat.
Cardriel began to enjoy Amberlee’s companymore since she put her own signature on her. A forest green ribbon to be exact. She waved her head playfully before nuzzling Ternura and the two trudged  back to the palace, where one guard and of course, the young Lord himself awaited his mares. “ There they are. “ he finally spoke  a minute later.
 
His eyes thought Cardreil had rolled in some grass while in the forest, but when he took a closer look, he saw the forest green ribbon. He took it in his gentle hand and chuckled to himself “ Amberlee” he whispered. And Carbriel snorted in agreement at her name.
“ You have any idea who that young lady is to me, Carbriel? She’s my maid. And maids do not  put their “ signature” on my horses” he took it out of her mane and placed it in his pocket to rturn it back to her when he was able to. “ Westley… get these trouble maker mares back into their  stalls” he said waving his hand  disapprovingly and walked off  those girls these days…  he thought as he headed inside, grabbed a sandwich and a cup of water, before walking upt he elegant mahogany staircase and began to make a list of Amberlee’s different types of chores for the coming days and weeks. The only thing that began to bother him was when his birthday came… would he need her all day?  I would be helpful….plus I still have the kids to  take to the river for a picnic he thought with a smile.  Ill ask her then if she would be happy to join me and the town kids.

DAILY CHORES: 
-          Wake up at 6:30 and open all curtains, including mine
-          Wake me at 6:45 sharp
-          Prepare clothes and place them on my dresser when you are here with me
WEEKLY:
-          Get rid of the weeds in the garden every week.
-          Wash the clothes that are in the grey bucket and have them done by no later than  2 in the afternoon.

Note: We will switch off bringing in the mares for cleaning and caring for and bringing them back to the pasture. ( But I will be checking for their cleanliness)
 
Then the idea of holidays also cought him off guard.  That wont be hard  he thought at first… but it is customary that  the maid help with the decorations and such.
He looked over the list twice, three times before smiling and clearly pleased with himself before setting it on his dresser and stood up to stretch. “ I need to go into town again" he reminded himself.
He grabbed his black tail coat, a white shirt, black trousers and his flat shoes before kissing his mother on the cheek “ I am going into town again, I will be back when I can. Don’t  wait for me  when the meal comes… ill eat when I can. “
He then headed to the stable and Ternura, his mother’s mare since Carbriel needed a break from being ridden. And groomed her to shininess and put her royal saddle, red quarter blanket, and bridle and headed to the town.  The green forest ribbon in his pocket.

Last edited on 2022-02-05 at 09:30:21 by Juniper

  When Amberlee arrived home, she immediately started preparing dinner. She hummed to herself while washing the mushrooms she found, as well the potatoes and carrots she found. She first chopped up the mushrooms and browned them in a little bit of cooking fat she still had left over. After the desired color was achieved, she place the rest of the prepared vegetables in the pot as well, along with various spices and herbs, then start slowly cooking it in some of the chicken broth she saved from the night before, first bringing it to boil on the hearth, then slowing it to a simmer. I hope father remembers to bring  home fresh bread, she thought. Then wondered if she shouldn't go check up on him. After this is prepared, she concluded.

About two hours later, her soup was almost ready. She ensured the hearth was completely safe and wouldn't burn down the house, before she grabbed her cloak and headed to the door. She would head to town to check on her father and ensure all was well. 
When she reached the town, she first went to her father's forge. "Here you are," she said sweetly, moving to kiss her father on his cheek.
"Amber, sweet child, it's good to see you," Thomas said, taking a moment to look at his daughter, "you look lovely," he complimented.
Amberlee smiled, "thank you father," she purred, curtsying before him, "I came to check on you," she said.
"Thank you, child," Thomas wiped his brow, "hand me some water, please," he pointed to a pale of cold water.
Amber did as her father asked.
"I should be done with this order soon,  then we can head home," Thomas said after taking a large drink of water.
"I will head to the baker then," Amberlee smiled, checking her father's coin purse for the coin needed before waving to him and heading out. She felt the man's eyes on her the entire time she was there, but decided to ignore him completely, since she only had eyes for Andres right now. She didn't care if her father's customer was a nobleman or not, there was only one who held the key to her heart. She giggled, thinking about him, humming to herself as she skipped to the baker

Andres was also headed to the bakers that fine warm morning, to get the bread and other things for the preparations for the picnic. Little did he know that he would come across the love of his life at the same bakers shop.

 I cant wait to see her sparking yes again he thought as he trotted away from his father’s homestead and towards the town.  if I get to see her I have to ask her about the picnic… if shes too busy… ill ask Thomas instead. Im sure he wouldn’t mind a visit from me from time to time He laughed. He arrived at the town a while later and noticed it was busier now than the last time he was there.  Huh…. He thought as he saw another royal by the forge and Thomas working away as always.    Don’t see many other royals around… maybe if I talk to him I can be of service to him in some way and get  to know him. He knew there was a chance that he would steal Amberlee.  No… she wouldn’t go for him… not after those kisses I treated her with already.

He headed over to the forge first to say hello to Thomas and to see if he would need anything of his services “ its no problem at all on my end, Thomas. I know you need someone to help you out with the job around here. You work hard. So im willing to help you find the perfect helper for you. At no charge. “
He hoped off of Ternura and tied her at the post before looking at the other royal very quickly.  Not too different than what I wear… but still… could be a step higher.  But if Im careful, I could be his greatest friend for years to come.

He thought his idea through and introduced himself to  the other royal. And before Andres knew it, the other invited him to a casual lunch. “ I’m afraid I cant go I have other plans with the  town kids and my girlfriend” He bit his lip at the word ‘girlfriend’.  It wasn’t fully true… yet. But he planned on making Amberlee his own. The sooner the better.

He then headed onto the bakers, his horse tied at the forge still. But he knew nothing would happen while he was gone. He passed a few towns folk, and a few of the children, he became friends with over a short period of time. “ Don’t worry I havent forgotten about my promise, Bree” he said  before kneeling to her level “ run along before your mother worries where you are, ok?” he kissed her forehead and turned her around to let her run back to her mother across the way before standing up and dusting himself off.  I’ll never stop loving the little ones he thought as he turned around and  walked the rest of the way to the bakers and instantly saw Amberlee.  And I wont ever forget my girl   He chuckled to himself as he headed over quietly and stood behind her. “ Did someone  here leave their signature on my mares mane this morning? “ he said dangling the forest green ribbon in front of her face playfully. Hoping she would turn around.  Come on…. You know its me, Amberlee. Im the only one that teases you like this. He thought, leaning forward and kissed her neck quickly and wrapped an arm around her waist “ And no need to pay… its all on me, darlin” he then turned her around, so she faced him and kissed her yet again… even longer, not pulling back for a full two minutes.

  Amberlee was busy choosing her desired loaf, when she suddenly heard a voice behind her. She gasped, and startled even more when a forest green ribbon suddenly dangled in front of her. "Andres," she breathed, the smile that bloomed on her lips nearly reaching from ear to ear. She completely forgot about adding his title. Before she knew it, a kiss was placed on her neck, which gave her goosebumps all across her body, a soft purr escaping her, and an arm moved around her waist. Such a possessive gesture. She giggled, and was about to thank him for being generous enough to pay for everything, when he spun her around and kissed her.

This time, the kiss was longer, and in her opinion, infinitely more passionate. Her arms snaked around his neck, pulling herself closer to him. 
When their kiss finally ended, Amberlee was left breathless and a little faint. "You sure know how to make an entrance, my lord," she whispered against his lips, then bit her own lip, "what brings you to town? I didn't think I'd see you today," she giggled, gazing into his eye. Those beautiful blue eyes, which reminded her of the sky. "I apologize about the ribbon, I didn't mean anything by it. I found them roaming in the forest, so we talked a while and Cardriel let me braid her hair. I hoped it would not upset you," she said sincerely, oddly docile and submissive in her ways at this time. She did, however, chuckle inwardly. I'm sure that book would have a heart attack if it saw us like this, she thought, but if he's being openly affectionate in public, where anyone and everyone can see...could that mean that he...that we might have a chance of a future? she wondered, the thought making her emerald gaze dance with excitement. She did not want to release him from her grip, not when the baker stared in awe, or when childlike giggles sounded from outside, or when a small group of noble ladies past by the store and gasped at the sight of Lord Andres with a commoner. All of them just seemed to fade away, Amberlee only focused on Andres.

------------

Meanwhile, back at the forge, Thomas was working hard to finish the lord's order. 

"That girl, is she your daughter?" the lord asked the blacksmith.
Thomas looked up, wiping sweat from his brow, "yes, she is my daughter," he answered as politely as he could.
"Might I know her name?" he asked.
"Certainly, my lord," Thomas said, knowing better than to refuse, "Amberlee Dawson. She is to be a maid in the Osborne residence, serving under Lord Andres himself," he quickly added.
"A maid?" the lord gasped, clicking his tongue, "that is far too mundane a job for such a lovely rose," he said, his mind beginning to wonder if he should not approach her and offer her something better than life as a servant girl. She was lovely. And even though she was the daughter of a commoner, she carried herself as any noble lady did. And there was something about her that was...alluring. He pushed off the wall he leaning against and began walking out.
"My lord?" Thomas called.
"Take your time, blacksmith, I'm just going for a walk," the young lord called back charmingly. He straightened his tail coat before taking to the streets, wondering what he might find.

“ I wanted to bring this back to you, Amberlee… And to ask if….” He looked around to make sure no one was listening, but when his eyes caught hold of the other royal, his heart sank Hes gonna come over here and ask her something if I dont ask her now he thought as he took her arm, gently. And pulled her aside before looking at her “ Amberlee… Before I get the crazy idea that this other royal sweeps you off your feet, I have a question.” He gulped and looked into her eyes “ Will you be my girlfriend… even though you are a maid in my fathers household?” Then said “I know it’s a spur of the moment… but I cant stop thinking about you and Im afraid someone else would take you away from me” then remembered something “ And do you want to go on a picnic with me and a few of the towns kids?”

He really wanted to get to know her better, and really take her for his own.  No matter what happens between us… im not letting her off the hook easily when it comes to another royal who already has his eyes on her. If a fight comes, I wont loose. Ive probably had more training hat him. He thought as he the casually brought Amberlee back to the bakers and paid for her loaf and then paid for his.

He then got behind Amberlee and put his lips to her ear and whispered “ I suggest you find a  way home, that royal is after you…. But he wont ever get you. Your mine.  Forever.” She kissed her neck  playfully before moving from her neck to her lips and held the kiss to show the royal that she was his. He then broke the kiss for a minute so he could speak “ if you ever get in the predicament where he harasses you or even lays a finger on you….  My pocket knife is In your pocket. Keep it with you at all times”  that should give her the safety she needs when im away and not in town He thought “ and one more thing…. If he mentions about you being a maid… tell him is permanent and it cant be changed. “ he then kissed her again, wrapping his arms around her her waist. Everything around him had disappeared. It was just him and her. “  I think I'll stay in town a bit, just for you, Angel. Important duties can wait” Then he saw the other royal really approach them and he got defensive and held Amberlee’s hand.  His blue eyes on the other royal.

   Amberlee was still grinning dreamily after the passionate kiss they shared. But Andres' sudden question snapped her out of that state. "I beg your pardon?" she fumbled over her own words when he asked her to be his girlfriend. Did I hear right? Did he just ask me to be his girlfriend? She was still trying to figure out if that question was real or a simple figment of her imagination, when he was suddenly behind her, his lips to her ear. The warmth of his breath made her body feel like it was on fire. Her eyes rolled back and she bit down on her lip to stop from breathing a moan. And then he placed a kiss on her neck again. And then her lips. Amberlee considered dropping the loaf of bread on the floor and dragging him off into a back room to kiss him for the remainder of the day without interruption. But he stopped and said something about a knife in her pocket. "What?" she mumbled, and she vaguely heard something about saying the maid position is permanent, then he kissed her again. Andres made Amberlee lose her mind when he kissed her, she lost all focus and train of thought in that moment, and she never wanted it to end. As if he knew that, he always ended it too soon in her opinion, and it always left her wanting more.

The baker's door bell rang as someone entered. That sound bringing Amberlee back to her senses after the euphoric kisses.

The black haired young lord walked into the bakery. He grinned at Andres, quite the display of possession you put up there, but does she even really want that? he thought. "Ah, Lord Andres, fancy meeting you here," he greeted with a friendly smile. His gaze drifted to the blacksmith's daughter standing at Andres' side. He immediately noted the jade ring on right index finger. Either you don't understand the significance of a pure jade ring on your finger, or there is far more to you than meets the eye. Interesting, he thought, subtly thumbing the ring of pure onyx that sat on his right index finger. "Why, if it isn't the lovely Miss Dawson," the young lord grinned as he walked right up to her, "pray, forgive me. Your father was kind enough to give me your name. My name is Claude Faustus, and it an absolute pleasure to make your acquaintance," he purred with a charming grin.
Amberlee fought the urge to step back. Not because she feared him, but something seemed a little out of place. Andres suddenly asking her to be his girlfriend, and now this? What's going on? she wondered. She merely curtsied to him, but remained silent, her gaze glued to his. In this light, she could have sworn his hazel eyes seemed...golden.
Claude grinned when she remained defiantly silent. Such a perfect curtsy. You are a commoner, yet carry yourself like a noble. How fascinating, he thought. He placed his hands in his pockets, a very casual gesture. He glanced at the array of baked goods the baker had on display, his gaze immediately fixing to the small, glazed pastries. "Are those fairy cakes?" he asked with surprise.
"Yes, my lord," the baker said, "I baked them fresh this morning."
"Give me three dozens," Claude almost demanded, then smiled very charmingly, and added, "if  you please, good sir."
"Right away, my lord," the baker smiled, setting to work to pack the fairy cakes. A delight to any who enjoys sweet things, fairy cakes were a very expensive dessert because of two ingredients that were incredibly difficult to come by. For one to buy three dozen showed immense wealth.
Claude grinned with satisfaction, then turned his gaze back to Andres and Amberlee, "a little birdie told me you are to be a maid in  the Osborne household," he said casually, as if merely making conversation, but he said the word maid as if it were an insult for her to be working as such.
Amberlee blinked. She glanced back at Andres, then returned her gaze to Claude. She cleared her throat and squared her shoulders, "that's right, my lord. Lord Andres has been kind enough to offer me such an honorable position. And it is a permanent position," she added, just as he told her to say.
Claude chuckled, "oh, dear sweet girl, there's nothing honorable about it. Judging by the way he's holding your hand, I'm going to assume you're the apparent girlfriend. Yet, he would have you work as a maid, cleaning after him and caring for him as if he were still a babe-"
"I would appreciate it if you do not insult my lord," Amberlee snapped, scowling at this Claude. Don't ever interrupt a noble, the rule flickered in her mind. She had failed, and with a strange new lord no less, but she couldn't help it. She clenched her jaw. If a punishment was to be given, she would deserve it, according to those silly rules.
Claude's grin grew wider. "Feisty little thing, aren't you?" he chuckled, something flashing in his eyes, but it wasn't certain if it was mischief or rage. "I meant no offence, to you or your lord. I merely think it is beneath the girlfriend of such a powerful noble to be a mere scullery maid," he said, very, VERY subtle jabs at Andres hidden in his words, "but I will respect your decision if you choose to accept that..." he searched for a word, "humble job. It says a great deal about your character, my lovely flower."
Amberlee scowled at the nickname. "Amberlee," she found herself saying, "my name is Amberlee. My Lord," she added his titled with a strained effort.

"My lord, your desserts," the baker said, three boxes ready.
"Ah, thank you, my good man," Claude said charmingly, handing the baker his payment.
"My lord, this is too much," the baker protested.
"Consider it a tip," Claude smiled, "and a thanks for baking such lovely pastries."
The baker beamed, "thank you for your kindness, my lord," he exclaimed,  bowing as low as his old back would.

Amberlee's scowl turned to confusion. Am I judging him too harshly? He seems nice enough to the baker, charitable even. Maybe, like Andres, there's more to him than that noble façade, she thought curiously.
"If you ever get tired of playing maid, seek me out. Perhaps I can offer something more. Like...making you a lady-in-waiting, perhaps," Claude offered with a mischievous smile.
Amberlee's brows rose, "my lord, such a position is reserved only for those of a lower ranking noble birth," she said softly.
Claude shrugged, "I'm sure my house can make an exception for one such as you," he said charmingly, then he took a single box of pastries. He handed it to Amberlee, "here, a gift. For both you and your father," he said sweetly. 
Amberlee blinked. Her gaze dropped to the box then rose to Claude. She had to release Andres' hand to take the box. "Th-thank  you, my lord," she said with some uncertainty, once again curtsying before him. I guess he really is charitable, she thought, lowering a gaze respectfully as she curtsied.
Stars above, that curtsy, Claude thought, if your hands weren't full, I'd kiss them, and you. Then he did something completely unexpected. He bowed to Amberlee. It was only a half bow, admittedly, but still, such a thing was normally not done. Then he turned to grab the remaining two boxes. "Lord Andres, perhaps you and I should go hunting some time, I would like to get to know you better. Maybe we can be friends," he said to Andres, "I know you are a busy man, but think about it," he grinned, then glanced at Amberlee one last time. "I'll see you around," he said, but it was unsure if it said it to Andres, Amberlee or both. Then he left the bakery.
"Come again!" The baker called after Claude happily.

Amberlee stood with her loaf in the one hand, and the box of desserts in the other. "What just happened?" she breathed, turning to Andres, her eyes seeking his.

Andres let go of Amberlee’s hand and didn’t look at her. His eyes only followed that of the other royal. “ He dares to do such thing, Amberlee. He’s competing against me, to get you. Or should I say… to win  your heart to him.  Maybe even marry he thought. “ I don’t know what im going to do” he said rather aggressively.  “He IS trying to take you away from me, Amberlee. But just because you’re a maid doesn’t mean I love you less.”

Then and only then did he actually have the guts to even look at her. His hand on her chin, making her look at him “I am nothing like him. I don’t show my great wealth. I only use it when it is greatly needed. Unlike him…. And my love for you has only gotten stronger. Be careful. For he knows who and what you are. I saw him looking at the Jade ring on your finger.“ he trailed off and his thoughts began to run wild in his mind. He then sighed as he looked at the ring on his and her own finger “Come to my picnic…. And decide then. If you want to stay with me as a maid and girlfriend…. Or with that boastful Claud, who, in my opinion will only make your life worse. He has yet a plan for you. Whatever it is.. the way he grins at you, it wont be good.” He looked into her green eyes.  Those gorgeous eyes he thought as he leaned in and kissed her yet again, not letting go for a solid five minutes. He knew she wanted more every time, so he freely gave it to her. But when the time truly came, her let go and stepped away a step.
 “ Im sorry, Amberlee… but… I leave the decision up to you who you want to be with” His heart broke at the words he just spoke and a tear feel and he turned around, walking back to Ternura and hopped on before spurring her rather harshly to get her going back to the homestead. His mind clouded at the effect that Claud had on him.  He’s ruthless and and… he's tricking Amberlee into something she wont ever want…  then he thought Would she choose him over me because of his generosity?  Or maybe his great wealth…

He pondered all these thoughts when he reached the homestead and let Ternura into the pasture to cool off. Her quarter blanket, bridal and saddle in his arms.  He headed towards the stable. And it would be that he would stay in the stable all day, worrying about the decision Amberlee would soon make.  If she chooses him over me… I will obey her wishes and go on with life…

He put the saddle and bridle away “I have to think of a way to keep him away from her…” but his friendly gesture of becoming his friend bothered him “ But it would get me closer to what he truly intends to do” he said aloud.

When he had the chance to catch his breath and clear his mind of what happened at the bakers, he stood up, fed Carbriel a sugar cube and walked out of the stable, and back towards the house where he would eat  in his study and ponder what was his next step in all this.

He let the maid know about the picnic and told her to get everything ready. " This is my only chance to  take back what is mine. " he whispered to himself as he waited til that afternoon to hang out with the towns kids and Amberlee. I just hope she isnt mad because of how I acted at the bakers. A  mischievous smile  crept to  his lips at the thought of Amberlee at his side on a blanket with the little ones around them.  this is gonna be so great.

Last edited on 2022-02-06 at 08:58:51 by Juniper

    When the time for the picnic came, Amberlee had decided to attend it. 
After Andres had just left her standing there in the bakery, she was very confused. She felt like she had done something wrong, or that he had somehow gotten the impression she could like such a pompous, arrogant prick. She had stood there, staring after him for a good minute before she finally went back to her father, explaining the entire ordeal to him. Thankfully, that Lord Claude had already left, however he had paid her father a very large tip. Charity is one thing, Amberlee had thought, but she was beginning to wonder if he wasn't flaunting. Admittedly, the part that had shocked her the most, was that Andres had said he loves her. So, after mauling it over for a while, she decided to head home, dress in her prettiest turquoise blue dress with silver trimmings, braid her long hair and decorate it with fresh flowers, and even went so far as to put some gloss on her lips. She wanted to look as pretty as she possibly could, even though she wasn't a noble. And she wanted to look that pretty for Andres alone. Then she made her way to the picnic.

Upon arrival, she was the last to arrive it seemed, she let herself hang back for a little while. She simply watched Andres with the children. They all seemed so happy to be out here with him. 
It seems as though you've calmed a little since earlier, she thought smiling sweetly at him, I hope you're not still mad at me. She still believed she had done something to upset him. You look so handsome, Andres, like a dream come to life. How could I ever simply want another, as if that's such an easy thing to do. I didn't want any, until I met you. My heart yearns for you and you alone. I think I...I think I love you too. But I have no idea how to say that to you, she thought, watching him silently, a gently smile on her lips. She had not noticed the direction of the breeze changed, carrying her sweet scent of fresh spring blossoms right to Andres and the children. Perhaps now, you will actually have a conversation with me that isn't so rushed, she hoped.

The breeze caught Andres’s attention as he looked away from Bree and in the direction of where the breeze came from. And there, standing in a gorgeous dress, was Amberlee herself. Just watching him and the kids And there goes my heart he thought as he stood up, went past his mare Carbriel and walked right up to Amberlee. And as always, greeter her with a gentle, yet long kiss. His hand around her neck before taking her own hand in hers. “ Amberlee.. the way I acted toards you when the other noble was  there…. I shouldn’t have done such thing… I was jealous and angry…. I….”
He exhaled as he looked into her eyes “ I am not one to be of jealous type.” He didn’t know what else to say so he just led her to the soft red and gold royal blanket and sat her down right beside him. “  You know I want what is best for you, Amberlee… but with him around… I don’t know what im supposed to do…. Especially when you are here and im at home doing things for my father….” He broke off the sentence when Bree  sat in his lap and forced him onto his back “ come on Andres…. You promised you would let me get on Carbriels back today.. please?”
 
Andres chuckled, taking his blue eyes off of Amberlee and focused on Bree for a little bit “ Bree… I know… I will let you  ride her, but only for a short bite. I have important matters to attend to today during this… picnic” he  then gave a smirk at Amberlee’s direction before sitting up “ Amberlee… since he offered me a little invitation.. I think Im going to take it. “
When he saw her   look on her face he laughed even more, taking her hand in his “ It’s a hunting trip… nothing more. On the plus side… I would be able to get to see what he is truly like. And see what he really wants from you.”
He pulled her closer into him, his gentle warm arms around her. His head on hers, looking at the river. His breathing  slow and steady. “ I do love you, Amberlee. There are no words than the three I could ever say.”  Im really going soft he thought I have to stay on top of my game if I am to keep her
Everything aside, he thought of the hunting trip.  What would I even where?  He began to think  And I cant take Carbriel. Shes too old for trips like this. Ternura will do much better.
He was lost in thought when a kiss brought him back to reality and a smile crossed his face “ Amberlee… this is why I cant let you go. Your wanting more of me, makes me think you are the perfect one for the job and for everything I have in store for you. And before I forget…. How are those two books coming along?” then looked at her, his hand on her chin " getting close to the end I hope... the sooner you are working for me... the better"

  Amberlee's smile widened when Andres approached her. Her gaze dropped to his lips just before he kissed her. And her world once again shifted. He had such an effect on her, her young lord, the prince of her heart, how could he ever consider for even a moment she would fall for anyone else. She held him close while they kissed, trying to reassure him of this truth.
He tried explaining why he acted the way he did when Claude was around, and she found herself smiling wider at him. "Lord Andres, please, you need not explain yourself. I understand. Lord Claude was out of line and I most certainly don't blame you or think any less of you," she said gently, lacing her fingers with his as he lead her to the blanket and the children.
Amberlee burst out laughing when the little girl forced him onto his back. He's so good with these children, I wonder if he'll be that way with his own one day, she thought, a tender love shining bright in her eyes. One of the younger boys approached Amberlee, and she turned her gaze to him. 
"Hello miss," he said, "you're very pretty," he admitted shyly
Amberlee chuckled, "why thank you, young sir. And what might your name be?" she asked sweetly
"Name's Kevin," the boy said with a bright smile, revealing his missing teeth
"Well, Kevin, my name is Amberlee. And it's wonderful to make your acquaintance," she said with the bow of her head. She did, however, return her attention to Andres when he spoke again. He told her he'd accept Claude's invitation and her smile faded a little, her gaze clearly betraying the fact she wasn't entirely okay with that, but had no right to voice it yet. But her fears and doubts drifted away when he pulled her into him. She smiled once again, placing a hand on his chest. "Alright, if you truly think it's a good idea. And you have to promise not to be reckless and get yourself hurt, okay?" she said a little too firmly. She had to inwardly scold herself for being so open and forward with him. This will take some getting used to, she thought, if I am to be both his maid and his girlfriend. I'll have to remember to keep things professional while I'm there working for him, and then I have to let myself be open and free when we're alone like this. She sighed softly, this is going to be trickier than I thought. It's okay, I'll figure it out later. For now, let's just enjoy- her thought was cut short when she looked up and saw he was lost in thought. She grinned and decided to be bold. She reached up and placed a kiss on his cheek.

"The books are coming along well enough," Amberlee answered, although in truth she'd only been reading one so far. His hand on her chin once again made fire rush through her body. Her heart began racing. "And what exactly is it you have in store for me?" she asked with a mischievous smile, "have you already decided on the list of duties I am to tend to?" she teased. Her gaze dropped to his lips then rose to his eyes once again, "tell me, you mentioned I am to sleep in the loft. So I will be spending my days and nights there with you?" she asked, grinning, "if you keep me busy all hours of the day, when will we ever have time to do things like this lovely picnic? Or even this?" she reached up and kissed his lips again. She only hoped that her moment of bravery that allowed her to be more forward with him wouldn't scare him off

Andres felt that he truly was the prince of Amberlee’s heart forever. But life in his father’s house would be the way to prove it. Not just the many kisses they exchanged every so often.  He smiled when she, in a way, forgave him. Making him smile.

“ I promise I’ll be in one piece when I come running back to you, Amberlee. Not idea what will happen to the other royal…. But that’s not my place to set eyes on at this time….  “ he glanced over at Amberlee with a  grin that she knew all too well.  “Anything you want to recall back to me like I asked? “ he said  with a wink. “What I have in store for you, is confidential…. But you will find out soon enough” he said moving his hand from her chin to her cheek, from her cheek to her hair, taking a piece that cover her lovely eyes. “ As for the warm soft loft…. You don’t have  to sleep there if you don’t want to… but once in a while you must, so I know you are willing to continue working for me. “ he looked into her eyes, those hypnotizing eyes.  How they make me want you so much more he thought. “ As for the chores that I am going to give you…  I have thought of them… but you must do them no matter what is listed on the sheet.  The dressing will be extremely difficult for her he thought before laughing out loud just as the kids stood up when their parents came over to pick them up “ I’ll give you a ride on Carbriel later, Bree. I promise”

She gave a wave before walking away. The same happened with Kevin. And then it was just him and Amberlee. He scooted closer to her and leaned his head to hers, resting his lips against hers, but didn’t kiss her. He teased her to make her beg for it. “   You never ease to amaze me, do you, Amberlee? You make me get hot inside and just want to kiss you every minute of every day. But I am a royal and I know my place.”

He then laughed as he  got her on her back, his eyes looking down, his body lifted above her “ You on the other hand…. You do not know your place just yet.. you are just learning, and your mischief will just get in the way. So, I have a tiny goal for you to work on, And it is this, You must control the urge to want to kiss me every time you see my face. I know you get giddy, so I want to train you out of that. You must control yourself, you understand?” He then, to end the tease, her kissed her lightly before grabbing her hand in his and stood up “ I wanna bring you to the house right now and get you started. But I don’t think the time is right… "

He chuckled as Carbriel came over and nuzzled him letting him know it was time to go “Carbriel… come on old girl.. Ill feed you later.. I want the time with this lovely love of my life for a few more minutes, please.”
 But Carbriel wouldn’t have it, she placed her head in between them and  nudged Ambrelee to get on her.

   Amberlee chuckled when Andres implied Lord Claude might not be in one piece after the hunting trip. When he asked for her to repeat back some of what she learned, she grinned mischievously at him, "well, as a maid in your household, I may not interrupt a Lord or Lady when they speak, always curtsy when your lord or lady enters or leaves the room," she gently brushed her fingers against his, "always be punctual. Do not argue with your lord or lady," she said, then smiled, "do I pass the test?" she asked playfully. She chose purposely to not repeat back the part about averting your eyes when you help your lord or lady dress.
She leaned into his touch, first  her chin, then her cheek. She was curious how sleeping in the loft meant she'd continue working for him. But this once, she decided not to argue about it. An attempt at following the rules on her part. "I'll make you a deal, I will sleep over on on the nights my father doesn't need me, does that sound fair?" she asked sweetly. She grinned at him when he told her she had to do the chores, no matter what. Challenge danced in her bright eyes, and a playful mischief. What could he possibly have in store for me that he won't just tell me? she wondered. She also wondered why he laughed, but before she could ask, the parents arrived for the various children. 

Amberlee waved goodbye to all the children, before returning her attention to Andres. Now they were alone. Her heart immediately started racing. When he scooted over to her, she blushed slightly, but at the same time, it felt so natural, so right that she relaxed and once again leaned into him. But when he only rested his lips against hers, and didn't kiss her, she felt confused. Did she say or do something wrong? "Andres," she breathed, "my lord...will you make me beg?" she whispered, her lips brushing against his with every word. She realized, a minute too late, that the effect he had on her, was no longer just her heart, but her entire body. A strange new sensation. She was so caught up in that, she didn't notice when he pushed her onto her back.

Amberlee gasped, her eyes wide with thrill. He was over her. Oh dear, stars help me, I don't know if I'm ready for this! a panicked thought rushed through her. Her heart was pounding so loudly in her ears, she could barely hear his words. But when he told her she must resist the urge to kiss him, she scowled. "What?" she barked before she could think. And then he kissed her, and she melted once again. 

The next thing she knew, she was on her feet. She blinked, standing looking utterly confused with life. Why does he always do this? Does he enjoy seeing me so flustered? Making me beg? she wondered, realizing deep down she may like it a little too much for her own good. She was about to argue with Andres, telling him that she was ready to start right away, that she learned better on the job anyway. But then Cardriel intervened. She smiled at the mare, gently stroking her, "please?" she asked nicely, "just give me a few more minutes with him. We have such precious little time to be together alone, please just give me a bit more time with him." But it seemed her pleas fell on deaf ears, or very stubborn ones. 
Amberlee chuckled, rather amused by this, "it seems fate is a cruel mistress this day, and that it has decided we must leave," she said with a sadness in her voice. She smiled at Andres, then lowered her gaze. She wondered how things would be between them from now on.


---------

Unbeknownst to either of them, Lord Claude had sent a letter to Lord Andres, inviting him out on a hunt with him tomorrow starting at dawn. The letter read he'd meet him in town and they could ride out together from there, and that he was very much looking forward to the trip.