As midnight approached and the guests began to depart, Sir Edward found himself wanting nothing more than for the evening to last forever. He had never imagined that spending time with someone like Hanne could be so... enjoyable. And yet here he was, wishing they had all the time in the world together.
"My lady," he said softly as they made their way back to her chambers, "I must confess something." His heart raced as he waited for her response.
She gasped softly in surprise and looked at him curiously and asked. "Oh, and what is it?"
He took a deep breath, hesitating for just a moment before speaking again. "I've never felt this way about anyone before," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "You're so beautiful... and kind... and smart..." He trailed off, unable to find the words to express how he truly felt.
Sir Edward cleared his throat uncomfortably. "My Lady... I mean, Marina," he stammered, "I would never..." He looked from Duke Cale back to her, unsure of how to continue.
Duke Cale smirked, clearly enjoying the discomfort he was causing. "Oh, really? Because if I were you, Edward," he drawled, "I'd be careful not to get too close. Marina is a dangerous woman to cross."
She crossed her arms over her chest, snorting in displeasure. 'Look who's talking, Duke Cale.'
The tension in the air was thick enough to cut with a sword. Sir Edward shifted uncomfortably in his chair, wishing he could just disappear for a while. But Duke Cale seemed intent on making an example of him, and Marina didn't seem to have any idea how to defuse the situation.
As the evening wore on, the confrontation between them only grew more strained. Every time Sir Edward tried to speak with Marina, Duke Cale would butt in with some sarcastic comment or warning.