"Good morning, my husband."Good morning, my husband." My wife was not as well as she pretended to be; she leaned on me a little more than usual. I supported her gently. "Agnes, please shop for us. We are having up to nine for dinner tonight. Tell the cook at the inn; he will tell you what you need," Victoria gently instructed. "Yes, Countess. I am experienced in hosting a formal dinner. You will not be disappointed." Agnes looked at us strangely. "I -- I..." Her voice faltered. "Yes, we move about during the day. You have nothing to fear from us, dear young girl. I am sorry for last night, but it was necessary. Your father is a stubborn man," Victoria explained, answering Agnes' unspoken question. "You... apologize to me?" Agnes asked, her voice showing her amazement. "Countess, I am your servant. I should not question your will," she said, curtsying. She turned and left the castle purposefully. Victoria sagged against me. Her body felt cold and clammy. I dragged her to a sofa where I made her lie down. She protested feebly, but within a minute, she was fast asleep. She breathed deeply, easily, and steadily. There wasn't much to do until sundown, so I sat down and stroked her hair while she slept. Agnes returned with enough food to feed an army. |