Chapter 30 Afternoon tea (1/2)

We arrive in the small garden in my court yard. After the incident concerning Elizabeth and James, I haven't gone to the big gardens in the palace. It is to avoid bumping into my stepsisters and also stepmother.

The table was located at the small gazebo in the garden. When I was about to enter the gazebo I tripped on a rock.

”Ahhh.” I yelped.

I thought I was about to fall when I felt someone held me by the waist.

”Are you all right princess?” Leon was the first one to ask.

When I was pulled up, I see that Leon was the one that caught me.

”Thank you Leon.” I smiled. ”I'm a bit clumsy.”

I looked down on my feet a bit embarrassed.

”It's okay princess. It is my job to protect you.” Leon said.

”You have fast reflexes sir Leon.” William interjected. ”I was about to catch her when you caught her first.”

”Thank you for the compliment young lord. I have been trained since I was young to be a capable knight.” Leon explained.

”That is good to hear. I feel at ease that Alicia has a very capable knight by her side.” William smiled.

The two men were smiling at each other weirdly for a while.

”The tea will get cold princess.” Tricia finally said.

”Let's go inside.” I said.

I take my sit and William sat right beside me. Leon stood a few meters away from us.

I was feeling a bit awkward. There was a tension between Leon and William that I can't seem to tell why.

William poured tea on my cup.

”Here have some of this.” William gave me a biscuit. ”My mother baked them especially for you. I hope you like them.”

”Really?” I asked a little surprised. I haven't met William's mother yet but she made snacks especially for me. I took a bite of the sweet smelling biscuit.

”Hmm, it's delicious.” I smiled brightly. ”Please give my thanks to your mother.”

”I will relay it to her later when I get home. I'm sure she will be thrilled.” William said. ”I am planning to take you to my home to visit in the future.”

My smile faded slowly from my face. William looked at me confused.

”What is it Alicia?” William asked worriedly.

”Well, I would love to go and visit your home. But...” I am a bit sad just by thinking of the reason. ”I am not able to go outside the palace walls without my stepmother's approval.” I made a sad smile.

”Then I will make sure to get approval from the queen.” William said.