The chatbox has been hidden for this page. It will reopen upon refresh. To hide the CBox permanently, select "Permanently Toggle Cbox" in your profile User Settings.
This chatbox is hidden. To reopen, edit your User Settings.
Theodora wasn’t certain what was the most worrying about the news,or the fact that Achilleas had not shown up as they had planned. From what she’d been told, and what she had experienced herself, he was a man of his word. So, what had happened?
She had quickly decided (after pacing back and forth for nearly an hour) to take matters into her own hands:
Her dress was white, a golden strap around her stomach and neck, leaving her shoulders and arms bare. The band around her waist was thicker, though did little to hide her form between flowing white. Even with her elegant attire, Theodora couldn’t help but to feel a little intimidated as she stood outside the Mikealidas’ family palace
"This way, my lady.” A servant announced. With a quick nod, she took a deep breath and stepped forward. She was lead into a chamber somewhere inside. Apart from herself, the room was left empty, and the young brunette took the moment to step closer to the wall. Her head tilted back as she gazed up on the painting above her head. It was a beautiful piece in its own right, though as much could be said about most art. She had always found them to be a nice past-time, especially when one's mind raced. She wondered if it was too bold of her to show up like this. Should she have stayed put and waited for word? For an explanation?
No. That felt silly. She was entitled to an explanation, was she not? Sitting around and waiting seemed like fruitless efforts. She was far too stubborn for that.
Her attention was then quickly stolen by two small birds sitting outside the window to her left. As if enchanted, the brunette walked over. Her fingers splayed across the frame of the window. She could see the birds clearly, their green-blue feathers shimmering like gold caught in sunlight. They were beautiful and Theodora found herself a little jealous at their freedom.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
Theodora wasn’t certain what was the most worrying about the news,or the fact that Achilleas had not shown up as they had planned. From what she’d been told, and what she had experienced herself, he was a man of his word. So, what had happened?
She had quickly decided (after pacing back and forth for nearly an hour) to take matters into her own hands:
Her dress was white, a golden strap around her stomach and neck, leaving her shoulders and arms bare. The band around her waist was thicker, though did little to hide her form between flowing white. Even with her elegant attire, Theodora couldn’t help but to feel a little intimidated as she stood outside the Mikealidas’ family palace
"This way, my lady.” A servant announced. With a quick nod, she took a deep breath and stepped forward. She was lead into a chamber somewhere inside. Apart from herself, the room was left empty, and the young brunette took the moment to step closer to the wall. Her head tilted back as she gazed up on the painting above her head. It was a beautiful piece in its own right, though as much could be said about most art. She had always found them to be a nice past-time, especially when one's mind raced. She wondered if it was too bold of her to show up like this. Should she have stayed put and waited for word? For an explanation?
No. That felt silly. She was entitled to an explanation, was she not? Sitting around and waiting seemed like fruitless efforts. She was far too stubborn for that.
Her attention was then quickly stolen by two small birds sitting outside the window to her left. As if enchanted, the brunette walked over. Her fingers splayed across the frame of the window. She could see the birds clearly, their green-blue feathers shimmering like gold caught in sunlight. They were beautiful and Theodora found herself a little jealous at their freedom.
Theodora wasn’t certain what was the most worrying about the news,or the fact that Achilleas had not shown up as they had planned. From what she’d been told, and what she had experienced herself, he was a man of his word. So, what had happened?
She had quickly decided (after pacing back and forth for nearly an hour) to take matters into her own hands:
Her dress was white, a golden strap around her stomach and neck, leaving her shoulders and arms bare. The band around her waist was thicker, though did little to hide her form between flowing white. Even with her elegant attire, Theodora couldn’t help but to feel a little intimidated as she stood outside the Mikealidas’ family palace
"This way, my lady.” A servant announced. With a quick nod, she took a deep breath and stepped forward. She was lead into a chamber somewhere inside. Apart from herself, the room was left empty, and the young brunette took the moment to step closer to the wall. Her head tilted back as she gazed up on the painting above her head. It was a beautiful piece in its own right, though as much could be said about most art. She had always found them to be a nice past-time, especially when one's mind raced. She wondered if it was too bold of her to show up like this. Should she have stayed put and waited for word? For an explanation?
No. That felt silly. She was entitled to an explanation, was she not? Sitting around and waiting seemed like fruitless efforts. She was far too stubborn for that.
Her attention was then quickly stolen by two small birds sitting outside the window to her left. As if enchanted, the brunette walked over. Her fingers splayed across the frame of the window. She could see the birds clearly, their green-blue feathers shimmering like gold caught in sunlight. They were beautiful and Theodora found herself a little jealous at their freedom.
He had been bent over papyrus for what felt like hours. There were neat stacks of it; items answered,those that required no response, some he had yet to read. And yet, for all the many minutes he had been staring at it, Achilleas had done nothing. The reed pen sat in his hand where it had rested all afternoon and yet it was not inked. He could not concentrate, his thoughts still a whirl from the arcus earlier on.
A cup of wine sat on the desk beside him but he had not touched it and he had not eaten since that morning, but had waved away the servant girl who had brought a platter from the kitchen. He felt drained, as if he had been fighting and the heat in his blood that carried him through conflict had faded away. But there had been no battle, just words and consequences that he still couldn’t fully get his mind to filter through.
When the knock came upon his door, Achilleas frowned at the man who entered. He had said he didn’t want to be bothered. He was very busy sitting and not doing very much at all. But the servant did not quail under the glare the baron levelled at him - he was used to working for Irakles, after all - but rather just bowed and announced that the Lord Mikaelidas had a visitor; His bethrothed awaited him in the solar.
Achilleas blinked, stared.
“Oh Gods” he muttered, pushing to his feet and sweeping a hand through his hair. He had completely forgotten their arrangements for the afternoon, had not even sent word. Taking a gulp now from the wine he had ignored all afternoon, Achilleas shook his head at himself, and made his way through the halls to the solar chamber, a bright and light room just off the central courtyard. Walking in, he found Theodora looking out one of the windows, hand pressed to the frame.He watched her a moment before announcing himself, the way the low slanting light of early evening limned her in gold, as if the Hesperides themselves had painted her thus. Almost reluctantly, he cleared his throat.
“ Theodora” He crossed the space to her, reached for her hand and let his head drop in a display of contrition“ Forgive me, I have no excuse. What with..everything, our arrangement entirely slipped my mind”
It was hardly flattering he knew, to be told such a thing, and Achilleas searched the young woman’s face for signs of reproach or annoyance. He was surprised that she had come, but oddly pleased too, for surely it was indicative of some desire to see him?
He led her over to a carved wooden bench beneath the window and drew her down next to him, gaze running appreciatively over her, and he felt a little of the tension of the day bleed away. He opened his mouth to speak again, only to fall silent as a slave girl entered, bearing wine which she poured for them both before setting the jug upon an ornate stone table and slipping out of the room again.
Achilleas took a sip, it was a pale rose, light and refreshing, and he let the sharpness cut through what remained of his somewhat dazed state of mind, turning serious eyes upon his betrothed. “Your father will have told you of what transpired earlier I take it?”
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
He had been bent over papyrus for what felt like hours. There were neat stacks of it; items answered,those that required no response, some he had yet to read. And yet, for all the many minutes he had been staring at it, Achilleas had done nothing. The reed pen sat in his hand where it had rested all afternoon and yet it was not inked. He could not concentrate, his thoughts still a whirl from the arcus earlier on.
A cup of wine sat on the desk beside him but he had not touched it and he had not eaten since that morning, but had waved away the servant girl who had brought a platter from the kitchen. He felt drained, as if he had been fighting and the heat in his blood that carried him through conflict had faded away. But there had been no battle, just words and consequences that he still couldn’t fully get his mind to filter through.
When the knock came upon his door, Achilleas frowned at the man who entered. He had said he didn’t want to be bothered. He was very busy sitting and not doing very much at all. But the servant did not quail under the glare the baron levelled at him - he was used to working for Irakles, after all - but rather just bowed and announced that the Lord Mikaelidas had a visitor; His bethrothed awaited him in the solar.
Achilleas blinked, stared.
“Oh Gods” he muttered, pushing to his feet and sweeping a hand through his hair. He had completely forgotten their arrangements for the afternoon, had not even sent word. Taking a gulp now from the wine he had ignored all afternoon, Achilleas shook his head at himself, and made his way through the halls to the solar chamber, a bright and light room just off the central courtyard. Walking in, he found Theodora looking out one of the windows, hand pressed to the frame.He watched her a moment before announcing himself, the way the low slanting light of early evening limned her in gold, as if the Hesperides themselves had painted her thus. Almost reluctantly, he cleared his throat.
“ Theodora” He crossed the space to her, reached for her hand and let his head drop in a display of contrition“ Forgive me, I have no excuse. What with..everything, our arrangement entirely slipped my mind”
It was hardly flattering he knew, to be told such a thing, and Achilleas searched the young woman’s face for signs of reproach or annoyance. He was surprised that she had come, but oddly pleased too, for surely it was indicative of some desire to see him?
He led her over to a carved wooden bench beneath the window and drew her down next to him, gaze running appreciatively over her, and he felt a little of the tension of the day bleed away. He opened his mouth to speak again, only to fall silent as a slave girl entered, bearing wine which she poured for them both before setting the jug upon an ornate stone table and slipping out of the room again.
Achilleas took a sip, it was a pale rose, light and refreshing, and he let the sharpness cut through what remained of his somewhat dazed state of mind, turning serious eyes upon his betrothed. “Your father will have told you of what transpired earlier I take it?”
He had been bent over papyrus for what felt like hours. There were neat stacks of it; items answered,those that required no response, some he had yet to read. And yet, for all the many minutes he had been staring at it, Achilleas had done nothing. The reed pen sat in his hand where it had rested all afternoon and yet it was not inked. He could not concentrate, his thoughts still a whirl from the arcus earlier on.
A cup of wine sat on the desk beside him but he had not touched it and he had not eaten since that morning, but had waved away the servant girl who had brought a platter from the kitchen. He felt drained, as if he had been fighting and the heat in his blood that carried him through conflict had faded away. But there had been no battle, just words and consequences that he still couldn’t fully get his mind to filter through.
When the knock came upon his door, Achilleas frowned at the man who entered. He had said he didn’t want to be bothered. He was very busy sitting and not doing very much at all. But the servant did not quail under the glare the baron levelled at him - he was used to working for Irakles, after all - but rather just bowed and announced that the Lord Mikaelidas had a visitor; His bethrothed awaited him in the solar.
Achilleas blinked, stared.
“Oh Gods” he muttered, pushing to his feet and sweeping a hand through his hair. He had completely forgotten their arrangements for the afternoon, had not even sent word. Taking a gulp now from the wine he had ignored all afternoon, Achilleas shook his head at himself, and made his way through the halls to the solar chamber, a bright and light room just off the central courtyard. Walking in, he found Theodora looking out one of the windows, hand pressed to the frame.He watched her a moment before announcing himself, the way the low slanting light of early evening limned her in gold, as if the Hesperides themselves had painted her thus. Almost reluctantly, he cleared his throat.
“ Theodora” He crossed the space to her, reached for her hand and let his head drop in a display of contrition“ Forgive me, I have no excuse. What with..everything, our arrangement entirely slipped my mind”
It was hardly flattering he knew, to be told such a thing, and Achilleas searched the young woman’s face for signs of reproach or annoyance. He was surprised that she had come, but oddly pleased too, for surely it was indicative of some desire to see him?
He led her over to a carved wooden bench beneath the window and drew her down next to him, gaze running appreciatively over her, and he felt a little of the tension of the day bleed away. He opened his mouth to speak again, only to fall silent as a slave girl entered, bearing wine which she poured for them both before setting the jug upon an ornate stone table and slipping out of the room again.
Achilleas took a sip, it was a pale rose, light and refreshing, and he let the sharpness cut through what remained of his somewhat dazed state of mind, turning serious eyes upon his betrothed. “Your father will have told you of what transpired earlier I take it?”
Though she had not heard him come into the room, she did not jump at the sound. Rather, the brunette turned her head in his direction, a smile forming on her lips as he drew towards her. The smile softened somewhat at his apology and she offered his hand a gentle squeeze. "I would never hold it against you." She reassured him. After all, she could hardly blame him for, with everything that had transpired earlier. She, too, would likely have found her mind preoccupied had their roles been switched.
She followed him without reluctance as he lead them towards a small bench. Sitting down, she found the very same faint trace of crimson reach her cheeks at their closeness, though did nothing to fight it. Her attention was quickly drawn towards the servant, accepting the wine with a grateful smile.
Allowing the liquid to swirl in her cup for a moment before taking a sip, Theodora wondered if this was something she'd ought to get used to: She understood the importance of politics, and how easily it could tear the minds of men away. She had seen it countless times, though up until now, had never considered the fact that she might find herself so closely to such an union.
"He did, yes." She nodded, lifting her gaze from the cup to look upon Achilleas. She found the accusations hard to believe, of course, but that was neither here, nor there. She worried for her sister ― as if she didn't have enough on her mind with the baby being due soon. "Though, I would like to hear your perspective of things, too." She offered, the corners of her lips tugging upward into a smile. "How are you with all of this?"
Perhaps it was a good thing she had not come to the meeting herself ― or perhaps it would have been better if she had. In many ways, it was easier to simply distance oneself from it all and simply let someone else make the decisions. It was silly, she knew that, and it was a little ignorant of her. Still, she didn't envy those who had attended. She didn't envy those who had to vote ― or those who had refrained from doing so. "I was a little worried when you didn't show." She admitted. "I hope me showing up isn't an inconvenience. I'm sure you have enough on your mind as is."
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
Though she had not heard him come into the room, she did not jump at the sound. Rather, the brunette turned her head in his direction, a smile forming on her lips as he drew towards her. The smile softened somewhat at his apology and she offered his hand a gentle squeeze. "I would never hold it against you." She reassured him. After all, she could hardly blame him for, with everything that had transpired earlier. She, too, would likely have found her mind preoccupied had their roles been switched.
She followed him without reluctance as he lead them towards a small bench. Sitting down, she found the very same faint trace of crimson reach her cheeks at their closeness, though did nothing to fight it. Her attention was quickly drawn towards the servant, accepting the wine with a grateful smile.
Allowing the liquid to swirl in her cup for a moment before taking a sip, Theodora wondered if this was something she'd ought to get used to: She understood the importance of politics, and how easily it could tear the minds of men away. She had seen it countless times, though up until now, had never considered the fact that she might find herself so closely to such an union.
"He did, yes." She nodded, lifting her gaze from the cup to look upon Achilleas. She found the accusations hard to believe, of course, but that was neither here, nor there. She worried for her sister ― as if she didn't have enough on her mind with the baby being due soon. "Though, I would like to hear your perspective of things, too." She offered, the corners of her lips tugging upward into a smile. "How are you with all of this?"
Perhaps it was a good thing she had not come to the meeting herself ― or perhaps it would have been better if she had. In many ways, it was easier to simply distance oneself from it all and simply let someone else make the decisions. It was silly, she knew that, and it was a little ignorant of her. Still, she didn't envy those who had attended. She didn't envy those who had to vote ― or those who had refrained from doing so. "I was a little worried when you didn't show." She admitted. "I hope me showing up isn't an inconvenience. I'm sure you have enough on your mind as is."
Though she had not heard him come into the room, she did not jump at the sound. Rather, the brunette turned her head in his direction, a smile forming on her lips as he drew towards her. The smile softened somewhat at his apology and she offered his hand a gentle squeeze. "I would never hold it against you." She reassured him. After all, she could hardly blame him for, with everything that had transpired earlier. She, too, would likely have found her mind preoccupied had their roles been switched.
She followed him without reluctance as he lead them towards a small bench. Sitting down, she found the very same faint trace of crimson reach her cheeks at their closeness, though did nothing to fight it. Her attention was quickly drawn towards the servant, accepting the wine with a grateful smile.
Allowing the liquid to swirl in her cup for a moment before taking a sip, Theodora wondered if this was something she'd ought to get used to: She understood the importance of politics, and how easily it could tear the minds of men away. She had seen it countless times, though up until now, had never considered the fact that she might find herself so closely to such an union.
"He did, yes." She nodded, lifting her gaze from the cup to look upon Achilleas. She found the accusations hard to believe, of course, but that was neither here, nor there. She worried for her sister ― as if she didn't have enough on her mind with the baby being due soon. "Though, I would like to hear your perspective of things, too." She offered, the corners of her lips tugging upward into a smile. "How are you with all of this?"
Perhaps it was a good thing she had not come to the meeting herself ― or perhaps it would have been better if she had. In many ways, it was easier to simply distance oneself from it all and simply let someone else make the decisions. It was silly, she knew that, and it was a little ignorant of her. Still, she didn't envy those who had attended. She didn't envy those who had to vote ― or those who had refrained from doing so. "I was a little worried when you didn't show." She admitted. "I hope me showing up isn't an inconvenience. I'm sure you have enough on your mind as is."
Where he looked for disfavor he found none, and Achilleas wondered at that, finding himself smiling back despite how weary he felt. When they were seated, he kept a hold of her hand, looking at where their fingers threaded together before he looked up at her, his expression turning a little guarded as she asked for his perspective.
That was difficult He had been trying to find where his opinion settled all afternoon, and it was impossible. On one hand he heard the echo of his father’s words over and over again: that Stephanos was not prepared to rule, that he was too hot-headed. His cousin done nothing if not demonstrated that side of himself today. But then he’d been grossly provoked, and Achilleas could not help but think back to the conversation he’d had with cousin those weeks back. Stephanos had been unhappy with his father then, that was clear. Had he cause? Then there was the evidence that had been presented. It all swam together into a wash of information that he could not fathom. He gave a mirthless laugh before he spoke.
“How am I? I am...trying to seperate the truth from the lies, and left with the impossible choice of supporting either my King or my father. Who is now acting Regent and likely furious that I did not support the motion he put forward. In amongst all of that I am just perfect”
But she did not deserve his annoyance, and Achilleas shook his head. “ Pay me no heed. It has been a long day.” He looked away then, and took a long drink, a few breaths before he focused on his betrothed once more. He thought he could see on her face that she did not perhaps understand the gravitas of all of this...what it meant, could mean for their future.
If Stephanos was found guilty, unfit to rule, then his father would become King, and he Crown Prince. Not a thing he had looked for, but not one that Achilleas could honestly say he would be unhappy with either, were it not at the expense of his cousin.
Theodora spoke again, uncertainty creeping into her tone and he realised that he was hardly being the most welcoming. He had forgotten her and then she had made the effort to come here, forgiven him for the slight and now he was taking out his irritation on her. It would not do. And then realising that he had not considered the effect upon his betrothed’s family, he spoke quickly. “ And you? Your family….I’m sorry, this is just as trying for you.”
Olympia was married to Stephanos, and now the pair of them under house arrest. And what would happen if the King was not returned to the throne? Achilleas suddenly did not want to speak on it anymore, did not want to think on it even.
“I am glad you came” He was being a fool not to be making the most of it, of a chance for something sweeter to come out of what had been an unsavoury afternoon. “ And you are not an inconvenience” Blue eyes settled upon brown and Achilleas reached up to push a tendril of dark hair away from Theodora’s face. “ Will you stay for dinner? I will escort you home afterwards…”
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
Where he looked for disfavor he found none, and Achilleas wondered at that, finding himself smiling back despite how weary he felt. When they were seated, he kept a hold of her hand, looking at where their fingers threaded together before he looked up at her, his expression turning a little guarded as she asked for his perspective.
That was difficult He had been trying to find where his opinion settled all afternoon, and it was impossible. On one hand he heard the echo of his father’s words over and over again: that Stephanos was not prepared to rule, that he was too hot-headed. His cousin done nothing if not demonstrated that side of himself today. But then he’d been grossly provoked, and Achilleas could not help but think back to the conversation he’d had with cousin those weeks back. Stephanos had been unhappy with his father then, that was clear. Had he cause? Then there was the evidence that had been presented. It all swam together into a wash of information that he could not fathom. He gave a mirthless laugh before he spoke.
“How am I? I am...trying to seperate the truth from the lies, and left with the impossible choice of supporting either my King or my father. Who is now acting Regent and likely furious that I did not support the motion he put forward. In amongst all of that I am just perfect”
But she did not deserve his annoyance, and Achilleas shook his head. “ Pay me no heed. It has been a long day.” He looked away then, and took a long drink, a few breaths before he focused on his betrothed once more. He thought he could see on her face that she did not perhaps understand the gravitas of all of this...what it meant, could mean for their future.
If Stephanos was found guilty, unfit to rule, then his father would become King, and he Crown Prince. Not a thing he had looked for, but not one that Achilleas could honestly say he would be unhappy with either, were it not at the expense of his cousin.
Theodora spoke again, uncertainty creeping into her tone and he realised that he was hardly being the most welcoming. He had forgotten her and then she had made the effort to come here, forgiven him for the slight and now he was taking out his irritation on her. It would not do. And then realising that he had not considered the effect upon his betrothed’s family, he spoke quickly. “ And you? Your family….I’m sorry, this is just as trying for you.”
Olympia was married to Stephanos, and now the pair of them under house arrest. And what would happen if the King was not returned to the throne? Achilleas suddenly did not want to speak on it anymore, did not want to think on it even.
“I am glad you came” He was being a fool not to be making the most of it, of a chance for something sweeter to come out of what had been an unsavoury afternoon. “ And you are not an inconvenience” Blue eyes settled upon brown and Achilleas reached up to push a tendril of dark hair away from Theodora’s face. “ Will you stay for dinner? I will escort you home afterwards…”
Where he looked for disfavor he found none, and Achilleas wondered at that, finding himself smiling back despite how weary he felt. When they were seated, he kept a hold of her hand, looking at where their fingers threaded together before he looked up at her, his expression turning a little guarded as she asked for his perspective.
That was difficult He had been trying to find where his opinion settled all afternoon, and it was impossible. On one hand he heard the echo of his father’s words over and over again: that Stephanos was not prepared to rule, that he was too hot-headed. His cousin done nothing if not demonstrated that side of himself today. But then he’d been grossly provoked, and Achilleas could not help but think back to the conversation he’d had with cousin those weeks back. Stephanos had been unhappy with his father then, that was clear. Had he cause? Then there was the evidence that had been presented. It all swam together into a wash of information that he could not fathom. He gave a mirthless laugh before he spoke.
“How am I? I am...trying to seperate the truth from the lies, and left with the impossible choice of supporting either my King or my father. Who is now acting Regent and likely furious that I did not support the motion he put forward. In amongst all of that I am just perfect”
But she did not deserve his annoyance, and Achilleas shook his head. “ Pay me no heed. It has been a long day.” He looked away then, and took a long drink, a few breaths before he focused on his betrothed once more. He thought he could see on her face that she did not perhaps understand the gravitas of all of this...what it meant, could mean for their future.
If Stephanos was found guilty, unfit to rule, then his father would become King, and he Crown Prince. Not a thing he had looked for, but not one that Achilleas could honestly say he would be unhappy with either, were it not at the expense of his cousin.
Theodora spoke again, uncertainty creeping into her tone and he realised that he was hardly being the most welcoming. He had forgotten her and then she had made the effort to come here, forgiven him for the slight and now he was taking out his irritation on her. It would not do. And then realising that he had not considered the effect upon his betrothed’s family, he spoke quickly. “ And you? Your family….I’m sorry, this is just as trying for you.”
Olympia was married to Stephanos, and now the pair of them under house arrest. And what would happen if the King was not returned to the throne? Achilleas suddenly did not want to speak on it anymore, did not want to think on it even.
“I am glad you came” He was being a fool not to be making the most of it, of a chance for something sweeter to come out of what had been an unsavoury afternoon. “ And you are not an inconvenience” Blue eyes settled upon brown and Achilleas reached up to push a tendril of dark hair away from Theodora’s face. “ Will you stay for dinner? I will escort you home afterwards…”
A little surprised at the tone, Theodora's brows furrowed: While she knew it wasn't directed towards her personally, it was a little hard not to find herself a little taken aback. But then, she had to remind herself, she hadn't been there. She hadn't witnessed it all first hand. She could only react to what she'd been told, and even then, she didn't think she'd really had a chance to process it yet. Maybe it had yet to really sink in.
Allowing a moment of silence to stretch between them as Achillaes attention turned towards his drink, Theodora pursed her lips as she considered his words. Truly considered them. "While I agree that it's an impossible choice to make, and it would be understandable that your father would be furious at you for not picking him, I also think you're entitled to your own opinion." She offered a simple shrug at that, letting her gaze drift towards the birds once more. "What you choose to do with that opinion is a whole different matter." She continued, gazing at him with a soft smile.
It was hard for Theodora to wrap her mind around it all: On one hand, this was an excellent opportunity for her, but on the other... It would mean the potential downfall of her own sister ― and her unborn child. She could only imagine that Achilleas found himself in a similar predicament.
Of course it was an impossible choice to make. Ambition could only go so far before the lines started to get blurry.
At his question, the brunette couldn't help but to sigh. "I wish I could tell myself that Olympia is more than capable of taking care of herself." And the same could be said for her husband. "But it's a very delicate situation, and I can't honestly say that I'm certain everything will work out fine." One way or another, someone would lose: What if these accusations turned out to be false, what then of Achilleas' father?
Allowing some of the tension to slip from her shoulders, Theodora found herself leaning into the touch offered. She supposed, if nothing else, she could at the very least be relieved at that. "Well," she drawled, humor coloring her features as she looked at him. "Dinner's the least you can do for forgetting about me."
In an attempt to hide her grin, she lifted the glass to her lips and took another sip of the wine. With the glass still hiding her lips, Theodora leaned back against the bench and sighed. "Though, I might need a few more minutes to simply lie here and pout." It took everything she had to keep a straight face: The glass of wine shielding her lips helped, sure, but she couldn't quite stop the amusement from reaching her eyes as she looked up at him through her lashes.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
A little surprised at the tone, Theodora's brows furrowed: While she knew it wasn't directed towards her personally, it was a little hard not to find herself a little taken aback. But then, she had to remind herself, she hadn't been there. She hadn't witnessed it all first hand. She could only react to what she'd been told, and even then, she didn't think she'd really had a chance to process it yet. Maybe it had yet to really sink in.
Allowing a moment of silence to stretch between them as Achillaes attention turned towards his drink, Theodora pursed her lips as she considered his words. Truly considered them. "While I agree that it's an impossible choice to make, and it would be understandable that your father would be furious at you for not picking him, I also think you're entitled to your own opinion." She offered a simple shrug at that, letting her gaze drift towards the birds once more. "What you choose to do with that opinion is a whole different matter." She continued, gazing at him with a soft smile.
It was hard for Theodora to wrap her mind around it all: On one hand, this was an excellent opportunity for her, but on the other... It would mean the potential downfall of her own sister ― and her unborn child. She could only imagine that Achilleas found himself in a similar predicament.
Of course it was an impossible choice to make. Ambition could only go so far before the lines started to get blurry.
At his question, the brunette couldn't help but to sigh. "I wish I could tell myself that Olympia is more than capable of taking care of herself." And the same could be said for her husband. "But it's a very delicate situation, and I can't honestly say that I'm certain everything will work out fine." One way or another, someone would lose: What if these accusations turned out to be false, what then of Achilleas' father?
Allowing some of the tension to slip from her shoulders, Theodora found herself leaning into the touch offered. She supposed, if nothing else, she could at the very least be relieved at that. "Well," she drawled, humor coloring her features as she looked at him. "Dinner's the least you can do for forgetting about me."
In an attempt to hide her grin, she lifted the glass to her lips and took another sip of the wine. With the glass still hiding her lips, Theodora leaned back against the bench and sighed. "Though, I might need a few more minutes to simply lie here and pout." It took everything she had to keep a straight face: The glass of wine shielding her lips helped, sure, but she couldn't quite stop the amusement from reaching her eyes as she looked up at him through her lashes.
A little surprised at the tone, Theodora's brows furrowed: While she knew it wasn't directed towards her personally, it was a little hard not to find herself a little taken aback. But then, she had to remind herself, she hadn't been there. She hadn't witnessed it all first hand. She could only react to what she'd been told, and even then, she didn't think she'd really had a chance to process it yet. Maybe it had yet to really sink in.
Allowing a moment of silence to stretch between them as Achillaes attention turned towards his drink, Theodora pursed her lips as she considered his words. Truly considered them. "While I agree that it's an impossible choice to make, and it would be understandable that your father would be furious at you for not picking him, I also think you're entitled to your own opinion." She offered a simple shrug at that, letting her gaze drift towards the birds once more. "What you choose to do with that opinion is a whole different matter." She continued, gazing at him with a soft smile.
It was hard for Theodora to wrap her mind around it all: On one hand, this was an excellent opportunity for her, but on the other... It would mean the potential downfall of her own sister ― and her unborn child. She could only imagine that Achilleas found himself in a similar predicament.
Of course it was an impossible choice to make. Ambition could only go so far before the lines started to get blurry.
At his question, the brunette couldn't help but to sigh. "I wish I could tell myself that Olympia is more than capable of taking care of herself." And the same could be said for her husband. "But it's a very delicate situation, and I can't honestly say that I'm certain everything will work out fine." One way or another, someone would lose: What if these accusations turned out to be false, what then of Achilleas' father?
Allowing some of the tension to slip from her shoulders, Theodora found herself leaning into the touch offered. She supposed, if nothing else, she could at the very least be relieved at that. "Well," she drawled, humor coloring her features as she looked at him. "Dinner's the least you can do for forgetting about me."
In an attempt to hide her grin, she lifted the glass to her lips and took another sip of the wine. With the glass still hiding her lips, Theodora leaned back against the bench and sighed. "Though, I might need a few more minutes to simply lie here and pout." It took everything she had to keep a straight face: The glass of wine shielding her lips helped, sure, but she couldn't quite stop the amusement from reaching her eyes as she looked up at him through her lashes.
He could see that he had spoken too harshly, and was irritated at himself for not measuring his tone. But Theodora did not draw away as he feared she might have done, but rather was just quiet for a moment before she responded. He gave her words the consideration they deserved - she did not know his father well, that much was clear enough, and yet he felt somehow supported by her.
He was entitled to his opinion. Though perhaps that was problem here, as he had yet to decide which way it fell. Maybe because it was unconscionable to accept that his father might have contrived this whole scenario, worse, that there was any truth to Stephanos’ suspicions. If that were true then Achilleas would...well he did not know what he would do. Emilios had more of the story, he had read it on his brother’s face when everything had been unfolding, but there had been no time to speak with him. Indeed, his brother seemed as slippery as an eel of late, Achilleas barely having seen him except when they had been ordered to the same location by their father.
“It is too soon to speculate” he said gently a moment later, trying to offer some comfort in turn to Theodora who rightfully worried about her sister. He had seen her only a couple of days previously and could understand the fears for her, and the baby. “But the truth will come out and then all we can do is see justice done.”
Truth. Achilleas knew well enough that the interpretation of such could be twisted and manipulated so it told a story that was not quite there. And getting to a point where it could be found amongst all of this mess? That was a task in itself.“Lets set it aside for this evening” he said finally. “ We can do nothing and I am done thinking on it.”
There was a slow smile as Theodora let their conversation shift to one of a lighter suggestion, and the warrior adopted a suitable abashed expression.
“Indeed, the least I could do” he said lightly, though there was something in his gaze that was not so. It was nice, he decided, to have such a distraction from heavy business, and as he watched the woman drape herself dramatically against the bench, Achilleas was reminded of why he had wanted her in this first instance. All of the memories he could call to mind, each of those that he had taken out and considered over the years, all of them were similar. Times where he had felt lighter, unburdened. Free, even.
They had been brief respites of course - he had not been granted the luxury of endless hours to spend as he wished. But it was the idea of it that had sustained him. And she could offer him that, in a way.
“I will leave you a moment to pout then” he said suddenly, and stood. “Allow me to speak with the housekeeper”. He needed a moment to regather himself, knocked a little off kilter by the unexpected realisation. And he should let the cooks know that Theodora would be joining him. With no wish to sit at a table with Meena or his half sisters, he asked that they be served instead in the solar room where they were, and when he returned, he was followed by a couple of girls who quietly went about setting a table for the Lord and his betrothed. One of them, a pretty girl with large dark eyes, lifted them once or twice toward Theodora, and there was a watchful sort of hostility there, but the other had nudged her and the servant lowered her gaze and did not look up again, leaving the room.
Oblivious, Achilleas stood by the window, wine cup in one hand, the other folded across his chest as he looked down at his betrothed, amusement evident. “ If you are done pouting then - though you do very prettily- perhaps you might join me”
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
He could see that he had spoken too harshly, and was irritated at himself for not measuring his tone. But Theodora did not draw away as he feared she might have done, but rather was just quiet for a moment before she responded. He gave her words the consideration they deserved - she did not know his father well, that much was clear enough, and yet he felt somehow supported by her.
He was entitled to his opinion. Though perhaps that was problem here, as he had yet to decide which way it fell. Maybe because it was unconscionable to accept that his father might have contrived this whole scenario, worse, that there was any truth to Stephanos’ suspicions. If that were true then Achilleas would...well he did not know what he would do. Emilios had more of the story, he had read it on his brother’s face when everything had been unfolding, but there had been no time to speak with him. Indeed, his brother seemed as slippery as an eel of late, Achilleas barely having seen him except when they had been ordered to the same location by their father.
“It is too soon to speculate” he said gently a moment later, trying to offer some comfort in turn to Theodora who rightfully worried about her sister. He had seen her only a couple of days previously and could understand the fears for her, and the baby. “But the truth will come out and then all we can do is see justice done.”
Truth. Achilleas knew well enough that the interpretation of such could be twisted and manipulated so it told a story that was not quite there. And getting to a point where it could be found amongst all of this mess? That was a task in itself.“Lets set it aside for this evening” he said finally. “ We can do nothing and I am done thinking on it.”
There was a slow smile as Theodora let their conversation shift to one of a lighter suggestion, and the warrior adopted a suitable abashed expression.
“Indeed, the least I could do” he said lightly, though there was something in his gaze that was not so. It was nice, he decided, to have such a distraction from heavy business, and as he watched the woman drape herself dramatically against the bench, Achilleas was reminded of why he had wanted her in this first instance. All of the memories he could call to mind, each of those that he had taken out and considered over the years, all of them were similar. Times where he had felt lighter, unburdened. Free, even.
They had been brief respites of course - he had not been granted the luxury of endless hours to spend as he wished. But it was the idea of it that had sustained him. And she could offer him that, in a way.
“I will leave you a moment to pout then” he said suddenly, and stood. “Allow me to speak with the housekeeper”. He needed a moment to regather himself, knocked a little off kilter by the unexpected realisation. And he should let the cooks know that Theodora would be joining him. With no wish to sit at a table with Meena or his half sisters, he asked that they be served instead in the solar room where they were, and when he returned, he was followed by a couple of girls who quietly went about setting a table for the Lord and his betrothed. One of them, a pretty girl with large dark eyes, lifted them once or twice toward Theodora, and there was a watchful sort of hostility there, but the other had nudged her and the servant lowered her gaze and did not look up again, leaving the room.
Oblivious, Achilleas stood by the window, wine cup in one hand, the other folded across his chest as he looked down at his betrothed, amusement evident. “ If you are done pouting then - though you do very prettily- perhaps you might join me”
He could see that he had spoken too harshly, and was irritated at himself for not measuring his tone. But Theodora did not draw away as he feared she might have done, but rather was just quiet for a moment before she responded. He gave her words the consideration they deserved - she did not know his father well, that much was clear enough, and yet he felt somehow supported by her.
He was entitled to his opinion. Though perhaps that was problem here, as he had yet to decide which way it fell. Maybe because it was unconscionable to accept that his father might have contrived this whole scenario, worse, that there was any truth to Stephanos’ suspicions. If that were true then Achilleas would...well he did not know what he would do. Emilios had more of the story, he had read it on his brother’s face when everything had been unfolding, but there had been no time to speak with him. Indeed, his brother seemed as slippery as an eel of late, Achilleas barely having seen him except when they had been ordered to the same location by their father.
“It is too soon to speculate” he said gently a moment later, trying to offer some comfort in turn to Theodora who rightfully worried about her sister. He had seen her only a couple of days previously and could understand the fears for her, and the baby. “But the truth will come out and then all we can do is see justice done.”
Truth. Achilleas knew well enough that the interpretation of such could be twisted and manipulated so it told a story that was not quite there. And getting to a point where it could be found amongst all of this mess? That was a task in itself.“Lets set it aside for this evening” he said finally. “ We can do nothing and I am done thinking on it.”
There was a slow smile as Theodora let their conversation shift to one of a lighter suggestion, and the warrior adopted a suitable abashed expression.
“Indeed, the least I could do” he said lightly, though there was something in his gaze that was not so. It was nice, he decided, to have such a distraction from heavy business, and as he watched the woman drape herself dramatically against the bench, Achilleas was reminded of why he had wanted her in this first instance. All of the memories he could call to mind, each of those that he had taken out and considered over the years, all of them were similar. Times where he had felt lighter, unburdened. Free, even.
They had been brief respites of course - he had not been granted the luxury of endless hours to spend as he wished. But it was the idea of it that had sustained him. And she could offer him that, in a way.
“I will leave you a moment to pout then” he said suddenly, and stood. “Allow me to speak with the housekeeper”. He needed a moment to regather himself, knocked a little off kilter by the unexpected realisation. And he should let the cooks know that Theodora would be joining him. With no wish to sit at a table with Meena or his half sisters, he asked that they be served instead in the solar room where they were, and when he returned, he was followed by a couple of girls who quietly went about setting a table for the Lord and his betrothed. One of them, a pretty girl with large dark eyes, lifted them once or twice toward Theodora, and there was a watchful sort of hostility there, but the other had nudged her and the servant lowered her gaze and did not look up again, leaving the room.
Oblivious, Achilleas stood by the window, wine cup in one hand, the other folded across his chest as he looked down at his betrothed, amusement evident. “ If you are done pouting then - though you do very prettily- perhaps you might join me”
She nodded at that: He was right, of course. Worrying would get them nowhere, and neither would wishful thinking. It was what it was and it would end the way it did, and no matter what either of them felt about it, in truth, there was very little speculating could do.
With another nod, Theodora agreed: They would gain very little from continuing down this path. "Very well." No, she wouldn't argue it ― she didn't want to. She could worry about all of this later, as she was certain the time would arise anew and she'd find herself yet again worrying about the future of her sister, and what that all meant for the rest of them. But it was as Achilleas had said ― it was far too soon to speculate and thinking any further on it would only drive her mad.
It was easy for Theodora to make the change ― to allow herself the moment to simply let her worries wash away and take on a much more playful nature. It was easier than she had expected it to be, and it came much more natural too. Achilleas was easy to be around, she'd decided. Once she had come to terms with the situation, and with the wedding drawing ever nearer, it was simple to take it for what it was.
He was a good man. He was a kind, admirable and admittedly very handsome man. He was a good match, and though it might not have been the one she'd first preferred, she'd come to enjoy his easy going nature. There was something about the way he looked at her that made her feel at ease. As if it was possible ― that everything would work out just fine.
And it was a breath of fresh air.
The humor drained from her face was and was replaced by gentle confusion as he abruptly stood. She was a little disappointed he hadn't played along. A little frustrated, though she did her best to hide it, Theodora placed the cup on the window still and nodded. Her eyes followed him as he walked out of the room, and only after she was sure he was gone, she allowed a heavy sigh to fall from her lips. She knew she was acting a little rash, and expecting too much, too soon. They did have all the time in the world, after all.
The doors opened once more and Achilleas ― accompanied by two servants ― entered the room. Pushing herself into a proper sitting position, rather than foolishly draping herself as she had done before, Theodora didn't miss the way one of the girls seemed to look at her, but thought very little of it. Instead, her attention quickly returned to her betrothed as he stood over her.
It was ironic, in a way, how she'd gone from pretending to pout, to actually be pouting. She couldn't very well admit to that, of course. Reaching for her glass once more, Theodora rose. "I suppose it will do for now." She chirped, raising a coy eyebrow in his direction. "We'll see how the rest of the evening pans out."
Lifting her hand as she walked past him, she ran her fingers through her soft waves of brown and let her hair loose from its clip and spill down her bare back. Glancing over the set table, she had to admit she was grateful he'd opted for the two to dine alone, rather than being accompanied by the rest. Looking at him over her shoulder, Theodora offered a coquette smile. "It looks absolutely luscious." With that, she turned away and started moving towards the table once more with the smallest of swings to her hip as she walked.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
She nodded at that: He was right, of course. Worrying would get them nowhere, and neither would wishful thinking. It was what it was and it would end the way it did, and no matter what either of them felt about it, in truth, there was very little speculating could do.
With another nod, Theodora agreed: They would gain very little from continuing down this path. "Very well." No, she wouldn't argue it ― she didn't want to. She could worry about all of this later, as she was certain the time would arise anew and she'd find herself yet again worrying about the future of her sister, and what that all meant for the rest of them. But it was as Achilleas had said ― it was far too soon to speculate and thinking any further on it would only drive her mad.
It was easy for Theodora to make the change ― to allow herself the moment to simply let her worries wash away and take on a much more playful nature. It was easier than she had expected it to be, and it came much more natural too. Achilleas was easy to be around, she'd decided. Once she had come to terms with the situation, and with the wedding drawing ever nearer, it was simple to take it for what it was.
He was a good man. He was a kind, admirable and admittedly very handsome man. He was a good match, and though it might not have been the one she'd first preferred, she'd come to enjoy his easy going nature. There was something about the way he looked at her that made her feel at ease. As if it was possible ― that everything would work out just fine.
And it was a breath of fresh air.
The humor drained from her face was and was replaced by gentle confusion as he abruptly stood. She was a little disappointed he hadn't played along. A little frustrated, though she did her best to hide it, Theodora placed the cup on the window still and nodded. Her eyes followed him as he walked out of the room, and only after she was sure he was gone, she allowed a heavy sigh to fall from her lips. She knew she was acting a little rash, and expecting too much, too soon. They did have all the time in the world, after all.
The doors opened once more and Achilleas ― accompanied by two servants ― entered the room. Pushing herself into a proper sitting position, rather than foolishly draping herself as she had done before, Theodora didn't miss the way one of the girls seemed to look at her, but thought very little of it. Instead, her attention quickly returned to her betrothed as he stood over her.
It was ironic, in a way, how she'd gone from pretending to pout, to actually be pouting. She couldn't very well admit to that, of course. Reaching for her glass once more, Theodora rose. "I suppose it will do for now." She chirped, raising a coy eyebrow in his direction. "We'll see how the rest of the evening pans out."
Lifting her hand as she walked past him, she ran her fingers through her soft waves of brown and let her hair loose from its clip and spill down her bare back. Glancing over the set table, she had to admit she was grateful he'd opted for the two to dine alone, rather than being accompanied by the rest. Looking at him over her shoulder, Theodora offered a coquette smile. "It looks absolutely luscious." With that, she turned away and started moving towards the table once more with the smallest of swings to her hip as she walked.
She nodded at that: He was right, of course. Worrying would get them nowhere, and neither would wishful thinking. It was what it was and it would end the way it did, and no matter what either of them felt about it, in truth, there was very little speculating could do.
With another nod, Theodora agreed: They would gain very little from continuing down this path. "Very well." No, she wouldn't argue it ― she didn't want to. She could worry about all of this later, as she was certain the time would arise anew and she'd find herself yet again worrying about the future of her sister, and what that all meant for the rest of them. But it was as Achilleas had said ― it was far too soon to speculate and thinking any further on it would only drive her mad.
It was easy for Theodora to make the change ― to allow herself the moment to simply let her worries wash away and take on a much more playful nature. It was easier than she had expected it to be, and it came much more natural too. Achilleas was easy to be around, she'd decided. Once she had come to terms with the situation, and with the wedding drawing ever nearer, it was simple to take it for what it was.
He was a good man. He was a kind, admirable and admittedly very handsome man. He was a good match, and though it might not have been the one she'd first preferred, she'd come to enjoy his easy going nature. There was something about the way he looked at her that made her feel at ease. As if it was possible ― that everything would work out just fine.
And it was a breath of fresh air.
The humor drained from her face was and was replaced by gentle confusion as he abruptly stood. She was a little disappointed he hadn't played along. A little frustrated, though she did her best to hide it, Theodora placed the cup on the window still and nodded. Her eyes followed him as he walked out of the room, and only after she was sure he was gone, she allowed a heavy sigh to fall from her lips. She knew she was acting a little rash, and expecting too much, too soon. They did have all the time in the world, after all.
The doors opened once more and Achilleas ― accompanied by two servants ― entered the room. Pushing herself into a proper sitting position, rather than foolishly draping herself as she had done before, Theodora didn't miss the way one of the girls seemed to look at her, but thought very little of it. Instead, her attention quickly returned to her betrothed as he stood over her.
It was ironic, in a way, how she'd gone from pretending to pout, to actually be pouting. She couldn't very well admit to that, of course. Reaching for her glass once more, Theodora rose. "I suppose it will do for now." She chirped, raising a coy eyebrow in his direction. "We'll see how the rest of the evening pans out."
Lifting her hand as she walked past him, she ran her fingers through her soft waves of brown and let her hair loose from its clip and spill down her bare back. Glancing over the set table, she had to admit she was grateful he'd opted for the two to dine alone, rather than being accompanied by the rest. Looking at him over her shoulder, Theodora offered a coquette smile. "It looks absolutely luscious." With that, she turned away and started moving towards the table once more with the smallest of swings to her hip as she walked.
He found his interest in what was being served for dinner dwindling rather rapidly as he watched Theodora pass him, and he smiled into his wine at her less than subtle flirting
Well then.
“That.It.Does” he remarked, moving to join her at the table, though his attention was not at all on the food that had been set out for them. He was surprised too, at this change from Theodora the day before. She had seemed uncertain then of her boundaries and so Achilleas had deliberately been more restrained today. Not that he was complaining.
Taking his seat across from her, the man drank her in, his gaze intense and unwavering as he wondered if it were just the absence of her own family that saw this shift. They were much less likely to be disturbed here it was true.
“Eat” he urged after a moment, and he made some pretence at least at being hungry, though he did not seem to taste the food that he consumed. More, he watched Theodora, the small details that he had not noticed before, the habit she had of looking up through her eyelashes at him. Did she know the effect she had upon him? He was beginning to think she did. Taking a sip of wine, he let it roll around his mouth a little, considering. He put down the cup then, seemed to reach some kind of a decision.
“You asked me yesterday where lines are supposed to be drawn.” Achilleas said, and he toyed with the fork he held, twirling it between his fingers before he looked up at her steadily. “ I would tell you I have no compunction with us setting out our own lines. I’ll be guided by you in this, Theodora, but I am no saint.”
He reached over to close one of his hands over hers, his finger tracing the line of her wrist as he went on. “ You have no idea how frustrating it has been having this wedding pushed back again and again, and it is harder still when I see you like this. You are beautiful, as you well know and you do not need to win my affections, you have them already.”
Achilleas paused a moment and arched a brow at her across the table. “Do not toy with me if you would rather wait”
He laid it out for her, for he was not a man to toy with words, and prefered to be direct. It was the same trait that set him in good stead with his men, that had the people of his barony place their trust in him.
Now though, in this scenario, it weighted the atmosphere with unspoken promise. If she wanted to allow herself more, he was all too willing to oblige.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
He found his interest in what was being served for dinner dwindling rather rapidly as he watched Theodora pass him, and he smiled into his wine at her less than subtle flirting
Well then.
“That.It.Does” he remarked, moving to join her at the table, though his attention was not at all on the food that had been set out for them. He was surprised too, at this change from Theodora the day before. She had seemed uncertain then of her boundaries and so Achilleas had deliberately been more restrained today. Not that he was complaining.
Taking his seat across from her, the man drank her in, his gaze intense and unwavering as he wondered if it were just the absence of her own family that saw this shift. They were much less likely to be disturbed here it was true.
“Eat” he urged after a moment, and he made some pretence at least at being hungry, though he did not seem to taste the food that he consumed. More, he watched Theodora, the small details that he had not noticed before, the habit she had of looking up through her eyelashes at him. Did she know the effect she had upon him? He was beginning to think she did. Taking a sip of wine, he let it roll around his mouth a little, considering. He put down the cup then, seemed to reach some kind of a decision.
“You asked me yesterday where lines are supposed to be drawn.” Achilleas said, and he toyed with the fork he held, twirling it between his fingers before he looked up at her steadily. “ I would tell you I have no compunction with us setting out our own lines. I’ll be guided by you in this, Theodora, but I am no saint.”
He reached over to close one of his hands over hers, his finger tracing the line of her wrist as he went on. “ You have no idea how frustrating it has been having this wedding pushed back again and again, and it is harder still when I see you like this. You are beautiful, as you well know and you do not need to win my affections, you have them already.”
Achilleas paused a moment and arched a brow at her across the table. “Do not toy with me if you would rather wait”
He laid it out for her, for he was not a man to toy with words, and prefered to be direct. It was the same trait that set him in good stead with his men, that had the people of his barony place their trust in him.
Now though, in this scenario, it weighted the atmosphere with unspoken promise. If she wanted to allow herself more, he was all too willing to oblige.
He found his interest in what was being served for dinner dwindling rather rapidly as he watched Theodora pass him, and he smiled into his wine at her less than subtle flirting
Well then.
“That.It.Does” he remarked, moving to join her at the table, though his attention was not at all on the food that had been set out for them. He was surprised too, at this change from Theodora the day before. She had seemed uncertain then of her boundaries and so Achilleas had deliberately been more restrained today. Not that he was complaining.
Taking his seat across from her, the man drank her in, his gaze intense and unwavering as he wondered if it were just the absence of her own family that saw this shift. They were much less likely to be disturbed here it was true.
“Eat” he urged after a moment, and he made some pretence at least at being hungry, though he did not seem to taste the food that he consumed. More, he watched Theodora, the small details that he had not noticed before, the habit she had of looking up through her eyelashes at him. Did she know the effect she had upon him? He was beginning to think she did. Taking a sip of wine, he let it roll around his mouth a little, considering. He put down the cup then, seemed to reach some kind of a decision.
“You asked me yesterday where lines are supposed to be drawn.” Achilleas said, and he toyed with the fork he held, twirling it between his fingers before he looked up at her steadily. “ I would tell you I have no compunction with us setting out our own lines. I’ll be guided by you in this, Theodora, but I am no saint.”
He reached over to close one of his hands over hers, his finger tracing the line of her wrist as he went on. “ You have no idea how frustrating it has been having this wedding pushed back again and again, and it is harder still when I see you like this. You are beautiful, as you well know and you do not need to win my affections, you have them already.”
Achilleas paused a moment and arched a brow at her across the table. “Do not toy with me if you would rather wait”
He laid it out for her, for he was not a man to toy with words, and prefered to be direct. It was the same trait that set him in good stead with his men, that had the people of his barony place their trust in him.
Now though, in this scenario, it weighted the atmosphere with unspoken promise. If she wanted to allow herself more, he was all too willing to oblige.
There was a great deal of things in life that Theodora wasn't certain of. There was also a great deal of things that she didn't know. The one thing she did know though, was that she wanted this to work. She wanted there to be a happy ending waiting somewhere at the end of the road. She had held back so many times, being too caught up in the things that she couldn't have. She hadn't allowed herself to truly consider anything else.
Perhaps that had been her biggest mistake. Rather than fighting it, she should have given him a chance. It seemed as if it wasn't too late, and Theodora was prepared to give it her all. No. She was done being selfish. She was doing acting like a spoiled brat.
Theodora's gaze didn't waver from Achilleas' own as the two sat. She could see the intensity shimmering in those blue orbs: Being away, and being truly alone ― she had to admit, it made being a little more daring a little easier. And so did the way he looked at her.
"As the Lord wishes." The words were offered with a touch of light and playful amusement. The food held very little interest to her at this point: It was a hard thing to focus on, when a gentle flush spread across her body. Swallowing the food, her fingers found the wine once more, feeling its warmth slide down her throat and join the growing heat in the pit of her stomach.
She found comfort in his words: It had been something that had been pressing on her mind for quite some time now. She had never been betrothed before, and she knew that many hadn't exactly followed the path of righteousness. Still, there, at least to Theodora, seemed to be a lot more trouble that came from allowing oneself to slip far from the morals of society ― as well as allowing one's self control to slip away completely. She had made such a mistake herself, and had paid for it. This time, though, it felt different. "I think..." She began, brows furrowing as she searched for the right words. "I think I'd like that very much. Making our own rules, I mean."
She didn't shy away from his touch, and instead, she placed her free hand atop of his. "I do think I have some idea." She mused, but quickly continued, "Though, I must also admit that I find great relief in hearing you speak the words." There was something to be said about such forward honesty. At times, she wasn't certain where the two stood. While his affections had always been clear to some extent, she still found him very hard to read. It was easy to allow her own insecurities and flaws take away her better judgement.
Theodora found herself with a choice to make: She had been honest when she said she'd wanted more. She truly did want a chance to explore them as a couple. Up until now, it had felt much more like a business arrangement than something promised out of passion or even love. If there was anything Theodora had never wished for herself, it was a marriage based solely on their parents politics ― even though it had always been something someone in both their positions would normally have to accept.
It didn't have to be like that for them, did it?
Rather than answering his question, Theodora rose from her chair. She removed her hand from his and for a moment, she studied his expression. As if searching for any form of doubt and when she thought she found none, she cupped his face between her fingers and leaned forward, placing her lips against his. "I hardly think anyone ― not even the Gods themselves would hold it against us." She whispered against his lips, surprised once again at their softness. Whatever reluctance she might have felt towards him, and their union, and their future together evaporated as she traced her lips from his, to the corner of them and then finally, following the line of his strong, masculine jaw.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
There was a great deal of things in life that Theodora wasn't certain of. There was also a great deal of things that she didn't know. The one thing she did know though, was that she wanted this to work. She wanted there to be a happy ending waiting somewhere at the end of the road. She had held back so many times, being too caught up in the things that she couldn't have. She hadn't allowed herself to truly consider anything else.
Perhaps that had been her biggest mistake. Rather than fighting it, she should have given him a chance. It seemed as if it wasn't too late, and Theodora was prepared to give it her all. No. She was done being selfish. She was doing acting like a spoiled brat.
Theodora's gaze didn't waver from Achilleas' own as the two sat. She could see the intensity shimmering in those blue orbs: Being away, and being truly alone ― she had to admit, it made being a little more daring a little easier. And so did the way he looked at her.
"As the Lord wishes." The words were offered with a touch of light and playful amusement. The food held very little interest to her at this point: It was a hard thing to focus on, when a gentle flush spread across her body. Swallowing the food, her fingers found the wine once more, feeling its warmth slide down her throat and join the growing heat in the pit of her stomach.
She found comfort in his words: It had been something that had been pressing on her mind for quite some time now. She had never been betrothed before, and she knew that many hadn't exactly followed the path of righteousness. Still, there, at least to Theodora, seemed to be a lot more trouble that came from allowing oneself to slip far from the morals of society ― as well as allowing one's self control to slip away completely. She had made such a mistake herself, and had paid for it. This time, though, it felt different. "I think..." She began, brows furrowing as she searched for the right words. "I think I'd like that very much. Making our own rules, I mean."
She didn't shy away from his touch, and instead, she placed her free hand atop of his. "I do think I have some idea." She mused, but quickly continued, "Though, I must also admit that I find great relief in hearing you speak the words." There was something to be said about such forward honesty. At times, she wasn't certain where the two stood. While his affections had always been clear to some extent, she still found him very hard to read. It was easy to allow her own insecurities and flaws take away her better judgement.
Theodora found herself with a choice to make: She had been honest when she said she'd wanted more. She truly did want a chance to explore them as a couple. Up until now, it had felt much more like a business arrangement than something promised out of passion or even love. If there was anything Theodora had never wished for herself, it was a marriage based solely on their parents politics ― even though it had always been something someone in both their positions would normally have to accept.
It didn't have to be like that for them, did it?
Rather than answering his question, Theodora rose from her chair. She removed her hand from his and for a moment, she studied his expression. As if searching for any form of doubt and when she thought she found none, she cupped his face between her fingers and leaned forward, placing her lips against his. "I hardly think anyone ― not even the Gods themselves would hold it against us." She whispered against his lips, surprised once again at their softness. Whatever reluctance she might have felt towards him, and their union, and their future together evaporated as she traced her lips from his, to the corner of them and then finally, following the line of his strong, masculine jaw.
There was a great deal of things in life that Theodora wasn't certain of. There was also a great deal of things that she didn't know. The one thing she did know though, was that she wanted this to work. She wanted there to be a happy ending waiting somewhere at the end of the road. She had held back so many times, being too caught up in the things that she couldn't have. She hadn't allowed herself to truly consider anything else.
Perhaps that had been her biggest mistake. Rather than fighting it, she should have given him a chance. It seemed as if it wasn't too late, and Theodora was prepared to give it her all. No. She was done being selfish. She was doing acting like a spoiled brat.
Theodora's gaze didn't waver from Achilleas' own as the two sat. She could see the intensity shimmering in those blue orbs: Being away, and being truly alone ― she had to admit, it made being a little more daring a little easier. And so did the way he looked at her.
"As the Lord wishes." The words were offered with a touch of light and playful amusement. The food held very little interest to her at this point: It was a hard thing to focus on, when a gentle flush spread across her body. Swallowing the food, her fingers found the wine once more, feeling its warmth slide down her throat and join the growing heat in the pit of her stomach.
She found comfort in his words: It had been something that had been pressing on her mind for quite some time now. She had never been betrothed before, and she knew that many hadn't exactly followed the path of righteousness. Still, there, at least to Theodora, seemed to be a lot more trouble that came from allowing oneself to slip far from the morals of society ― as well as allowing one's self control to slip away completely. She had made such a mistake herself, and had paid for it. This time, though, it felt different. "I think..." She began, brows furrowing as she searched for the right words. "I think I'd like that very much. Making our own rules, I mean."
She didn't shy away from his touch, and instead, she placed her free hand atop of his. "I do think I have some idea." She mused, but quickly continued, "Though, I must also admit that I find great relief in hearing you speak the words." There was something to be said about such forward honesty. At times, she wasn't certain where the two stood. While his affections had always been clear to some extent, she still found him very hard to read. It was easy to allow her own insecurities and flaws take away her better judgement.
Theodora found herself with a choice to make: She had been honest when she said she'd wanted more. She truly did want a chance to explore them as a couple. Up until now, it had felt much more like a business arrangement than something promised out of passion or even love. If there was anything Theodora had never wished for herself, it was a marriage based solely on their parents politics ― even though it had always been something someone in both their positions would normally have to accept.
It didn't have to be like that for them, did it?
Rather than answering his question, Theodora rose from her chair. She removed her hand from his and for a moment, she studied his expression. As if searching for any form of doubt and when she thought she found none, she cupped his face between her fingers and leaned forward, placing her lips against his. "I hardly think anyone ― not even the Gods themselves would hold it against us." She whispered against his lips, surprised once again at their softness. Whatever reluctance she might have felt towards him, and their union, and their future together evaporated as she traced her lips from his, to the corner of them and then finally, following the line of his strong, masculine jaw.
Her hand came to rest atop his, effectively trapping it in place, and Achilleas looked at, raised his gaze to fall upon her face as he tipped his head to the side consideringly. He had not wanted to presume, but Theodora’s response seemed favourable thus far, and he had smiled, surprised as she claimed relief in him asserting his feelings.
“This cannot be news to you surely?”
She has said he was hard to read, but Achilleas could not see how. He thought he had been more than clear. He had asked for the match, had revealed his feelings for her, his hope that she might come to feel the same. But the inclination to argue the point fell away into nothing as he watched her rise and come to him, eyes so dark with pupil as to almost look black as he opened his arms to receive her.
The kiss she gave was gentle, featherlight and sweet, and Achilleas’ hands found a home at her waist, drawing her to him, feeling the press of her body against his as she traced along the line of his jaw.
She was soft, deliciously so, the swell of her curves against hard planes of muscle, and he could not not help but turn to capture her lips with his own, claiming her mouth in a kiss that showed nothing of the reserve she had seen from him up until now. It was hungry, insistent, and Achilleas had pushed to his feet, the chair beneath him scraping across the floor as he stood. He pulled her close, walking them slowly away from the table and the forgotten dinner.
He had forgotten many things, months worth of wanting finally finding an outlet. Had forgotten that the door was not locked, had forgotten his vow not to take it too fast, had forgotten that Meena or the girls or even Emilios could intrude upon them at any moment. He only knew the the taste of her, the feel of silken strands of her hair that slid through his fingers as he drew her mouth to his again, stealing her breath.
Dimly, Achilleas adjusted their course so Theodora’s knees would hit the back of the same bench they had sat upon earlier, and he followed her down, his weight coming to rest atop her, his arm wrapped around her neck and cradling her head.
“I have wanted this for so long” The words were spoken into the dip of her throat, warm and thick like honey, and Achilleas kissed back up to find her mouth, pausing there to look down at her,gaze strafing her face as some last moment of clarity fought its way through his lust fogged mind “You are certain?”
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
Her hand came to rest atop his, effectively trapping it in place, and Achilleas looked at, raised his gaze to fall upon her face as he tipped his head to the side consideringly. He had not wanted to presume, but Theodora’s response seemed favourable thus far, and he had smiled, surprised as she claimed relief in him asserting his feelings.
“This cannot be news to you surely?”
She has said he was hard to read, but Achilleas could not see how. He thought he had been more than clear. He had asked for the match, had revealed his feelings for her, his hope that she might come to feel the same. But the inclination to argue the point fell away into nothing as he watched her rise and come to him, eyes so dark with pupil as to almost look black as he opened his arms to receive her.
The kiss she gave was gentle, featherlight and sweet, and Achilleas’ hands found a home at her waist, drawing her to him, feeling the press of her body against his as she traced along the line of his jaw.
She was soft, deliciously so, the swell of her curves against hard planes of muscle, and he could not not help but turn to capture her lips with his own, claiming her mouth in a kiss that showed nothing of the reserve she had seen from him up until now. It was hungry, insistent, and Achilleas had pushed to his feet, the chair beneath him scraping across the floor as he stood. He pulled her close, walking them slowly away from the table and the forgotten dinner.
He had forgotten many things, months worth of wanting finally finding an outlet. Had forgotten that the door was not locked, had forgotten his vow not to take it too fast, had forgotten that Meena or the girls or even Emilios could intrude upon them at any moment. He only knew the the taste of her, the feel of silken strands of her hair that slid through his fingers as he drew her mouth to his again, stealing her breath.
Dimly, Achilleas adjusted their course so Theodora’s knees would hit the back of the same bench they had sat upon earlier, and he followed her down, his weight coming to rest atop her, his arm wrapped around her neck and cradling her head.
“I have wanted this for so long” The words were spoken into the dip of her throat, warm and thick like honey, and Achilleas kissed back up to find her mouth, pausing there to look down at her,gaze strafing her face as some last moment of clarity fought its way through his lust fogged mind “You are certain?”
Her hand came to rest atop his, effectively trapping it in place, and Achilleas looked at, raised his gaze to fall upon her face as he tipped his head to the side consideringly. He had not wanted to presume, but Theodora’s response seemed favourable thus far, and he had smiled, surprised as she claimed relief in him asserting his feelings.
“This cannot be news to you surely?”
She has said he was hard to read, but Achilleas could not see how. He thought he had been more than clear. He had asked for the match, had revealed his feelings for her, his hope that she might come to feel the same. But the inclination to argue the point fell away into nothing as he watched her rise and come to him, eyes so dark with pupil as to almost look black as he opened his arms to receive her.
The kiss she gave was gentle, featherlight and sweet, and Achilleas’ hands found a home at her waist, drawing her to him, feeling the press of her body against his as she traced along the line of his jaw.
She was soft, deliciously so, the swell of her curves against hard planes of muscle, and he could not not help but turn to capture her lips with his own, claiming her mouth in a kiss that showed nothing of the reserve she had seen from him up until now. It was hungry, insistent, and Achilleas had pushed to his feet, the chair beneath him scraping across the floor as he stood. He pulled her close, walking them slowly away from the table and the forgotten dinner.
He had forgotten many things, months worth of wanting finally finding an outlet. Had forgotten that the door was not locked, had forgotten his vow not to take it too fast, had forgotten that Meena or the girls or even Emilios could intrude upon them at any moment. He only knew the the taste of her, the feel of silken strands of her hair that slid through his fingers as he drew her mouth to his again, stealing her breath.
Dimly, Achilleas adjusted their course so Theodora’s knees would hit the back of the same bench they had sat upon earlier, and he followed her down, his weight coming to rest atop her, his arm wrapped around her neck and cradling her head.
“I have wanted this for so long” The words were spoken into the dip of her throat, warm and thick like honey, and Achilleas kissed back up to find her mouth, pausing there to look down at her,gaze strafing her face as some last moment of clarity fought its way through his lust fogged mind “You are certain?”
"Never underestimate a woman's constant need for validation." She offered a little humorously. It was nothing if not true: While the words could be spoken a million times, all it took was a simple gesture to have it all ripped away and leave nothing but raw insecurity in its wake.
Easily, Theodora allowed herself to swept away with his touch and without a trace of doubt, she allowed her body to be pulled against his. One of her hands moved to rest at the base of his neck, fingers intertwining into his air as the other moved to his neck, pulling him even closer. It was hard not to be aware of the hard, toned muscle that pressed against her body. Nor was it hard not to be aware of the way her heart seemed to quicken its beating as if it was about to leap straight out of her chest and dance across the table.
He was usually so gentle when he touched her, though the hunger that seemingly coursed through his entire being when he kissed her ― when he touched her ― was a truly welcome change of pace. As he pushed them away from the table, Theodora draped an arm over his shoulder, trying to keep herself steady through the fierceness of his lips. Whatever thoughts of catching her breath seemed unimportant. If only she could have stayed like this, she was certain it wouldn't matter.
A grin spread across her lips once she felt the bench poke at the back of her feet, though easily let Achilleas guide her downwards. Shifting, she draped both her arms around him, one hand still resting at the base of his neck while the other followed the line of muscles across his upper back.
Had she been able to, she would have gazed up at him and offered him a brilliant smile. A smile that likely would have enhanced the flush that spread across her cheeks like crimson silk. There was something to be said about being wanted like that ― she found a selfish kind of enjoyment hearing them. Whatever response she might have offered, though, was quickly whisked away when she felt his touch against her neck, leaving a trail of goosebumps in its wake. His lips met hers once more, only to depart too quickly. She met his gaze, unwavering and bold.
"Are you?" She quipped back, but before allowing him a moment to respond, Theodora pressed her lips against his, and unlike any time before, she let all pretenses of modesty wash away. Her lips met his forcefully and hungrily as her hands slipped further down his back, nails scraping against the soft fabric she'd preferred wasn't in the way. Shifting her legs, she pressed her thighs against his waist and curled her fingers against the soft strands of his hair.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
"Never underestimate a woman's constant need for validation." She offered a little humorously. It was nothing if not true: While the words could be spoken a million times, all it took was a simple gesture to have it all ripped away and leave nothing but raw insecurity in its wake.
Easily, Theodora allowed herself to swept away with his touch and without a trace of doubt, she allowed her body to be pulled against his. One of her hands moved to rest at the base of his neck, fingers intertwining into his air as the other moved to his neck, pulling him even closer. It was hard not to be aware of the hard, toned muscle that pressed against her body. Nor was it hard not to be aware of the way her heart seemed to quicken its beating as if it was about to leap straight out of her chest and dance across the table.
He was usually so gentle when he touched her, though the hunger that seemingly coursed through his entire being when he kissed her ― when he touched her ― was a truly welcome change of pace. As he pushed them away from the table, Theodora draped an arm over his shoulder, trying to keep herself steady through the fierceness of his lips. Whatever thoughts of catching her breath seemed unimportant. If only she could have stayed like this, she was certain it wouldn't matter.
A grin spread across her lips once she felt the bench poke at the back of her feet, though easily let Achilleas guide her downwards. Shifting, she draped both her arms around him, one hand still resting at the base of his neck while the other followed the line of muscles across his upper back.
Had she been able to, she would have gazed up at him and offered him a brilliant smile. A smile that likely would have enhanced the flush that spread across her cheeks like crimson silk. There was something to be said about being wanted like that ― she found a selfish kind of enjoyment hearing them. Whatever response she might have offered, though, was quickly whisked away when she felt his touch against her neck, leaving a trail of goosebumps in its wake. His lips met hers once more, only to depart too quickly. She met his gaze, unwavering and bold.
"Are you?" She quipped back, but before allowing him a moment to respond, Theodora pressed her lips against his, and unlike any time before, she let all pretenses of modesty wash away. Her lips met his forcefully and hungrily as her hands slipped further down his back, nails scraping against the soft fabric she'd preferred wasn't in the way. Shifting her legs, she pressed her thighs against his waist and curled her fingers against the soft strands of his hair.
"Never underestimate a woman's constant need for validation." She offered a little humorously. It was nothing if not true: While the words could be spoken a million times, all it took was a simple gesture to have it all ripped away and leave nothing but raw insecurity in its wake.
Easily, Theodora allowed herself to swept away with his touch and without a trace of doubt, she allowed her body to be pulled against his. One of her hands moved to rest at the base of his neck, fingers intertwining into his air as the other moved to his neck, pulling him even closer. It was hard not to be aware of the hard, toned muscle that pressed against her body. Nor was it hard not to be aware of the way her heart seemed to quicken its beating as if it was about to leap straight out of her chest and dance across the table.
He was usually so gentle when he touched her, though the hunger that seemingly coursed through his entire being when he kissed her ― when he touched her ― was a truly welcome change of pace. As he pushed them away from the table, Theodora draped an arm over his shoulder, trying to keep herself steady through the fierceness of his lips. Whatever thoughts of catching her breath seemed unimportant. If only she could have stayed like this, she was certain it wouldn't matter.
A grin spread across her lips once she felt the bench poke at the back of her feet, though easily let Achilleas guide her downwards. Shifting, she draped both her arms around him, one hand still resting at the base of his neck while the other followed the line of muscles across his upper back.
Had she been able to, she would have gazed up at him and offered him a brilliant smile. A smile that likely would have enhanced the flush that spread across her cheeks like crimson silk. There was something to be said about being wanted like that ― she found a selfish kind of enjoyment hearing them. Whatever response she might have offered, though, was quickly whisked away when she felt his touch against her neck, leaving a trail of goosebumps in its wake. His lips met hers once more, only to depart too quickly. She met his gaze, unwavering and bold.
"Are you?" She quipped back, but before allowing him a moment to respond, Theodora pressed her lips against his, and unlike any time before, she let all pretenses of modesty wash away. Her lips met his forcefully and hungrily as her hands slipped further down his back, nails scraping against the soft fabric she'd preferred wasn't in the way. Shifting her legs, she pressed her thighs against his waist and curled her fingers against the soft strands of his hair.
It was afterwards, sprawled upon the floor with naught but a thin woven rug against his back that Achilleas would think he might have found a more..romantic staging for the moment. He was still catching his breath, could feel the frantic thudding of his heart gradually slowing to something more reasonable, and he wanted to laugh all of a sudden, giddy at his good fortune.
Theodora was in his arms, where he had longed for her to be for months, and she was more, more than he could ever have imagined. Ever so lightly, he traced circles over the smooth skin of her shoulder, replaying each moment of their joining, commiting each new thing he had learnt about her to memory.
“ …..Theodora….I wish I could take you to my bed and do that all again” he said languidly, already knowing that it was not possible. Their betrothal might see people turn a blind eye to some things, but Achilleas would not push his luck by keeping her away all night. “Eleven days can not come soon enough.” he added, sounding only a touch petulant.
He shifted, pushed up his elbow to see her face and swept her hair back, a lazy smile spreading across his face as he took in her well-loved appearance. Cheeks flush and lips bruised with kissing, it was all he could do not to ignore his common sense and keep her with him anyway. He leant in to kiss her again.
Achilleas himself was radiating a cat-that-got-the-cream sort of smugness, eyes drowsy but appreciative as they looked down upon her. He watched her steadily for a moment, before he spoke. “ Are you..” sore he almost asked, but then bit it off, dropping in “cold?” as an alternative, as he considered their love making.
She had surprised him again, not at all hesitant, not..new to the ways to coax passion from a man, nor to his efforts in return. Looking at her, he didn’t know quite how he felt about it, some small spark of jealousy, possessiveness kindling somewhere, but Achilleas smothered it for now, not willing to let in intrude in the sweet stillness they had. For a few moments at least.
Where their skin touched was slick with sweat, but Achilleas could feel the chill from the marble tile seeping up through the rug beneath him, he was conscious of Theodora’s comfort too, and so reluctantly, he prompted her to move off him. Sitting up, he reached for the slip of fabric that was her dress, attempted to tug it gently back into its proper position so she might be a little more covered.
“ I am sorry that this was..” He was going to apologise for the fact that they had lain upon the floor after abandoning the bench, and for the fact that he could not bathe with her now and hold her as he wanted to, but the words would not come. For him at least, It had been so long anticipated that he could not bear to regret any moment of it.
“Next time” he amended, “ next time i will love you slowly and we will not be so soon parted.” He made the promise as he stood, stretched and then set about trying to set his own clothes back to something that would approach decent. He reached down a hand to help Theodora to her feet then, pulling her up and into his arms where he held her a long moment. “You don't regret it, I hope?”
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
It was afterwards, sprawled upon the floor with naught but a thin woven rug against his back that Achilleas would think he might have found a more..romantic staging for the moment. He was still catching his breath, could feel the frantic thudding of his heart gradually slowing to something more reasonable, and he wanted to laugh all of a sudden, giddy at his good fortune.
Theodora was in his arms, where he had longed for her to be for months, and she was more, more than he could ever have imagined. Ever so lightly, he traced circles over the smooth skin of her shoulder, replaying each moment of their joining, commiting each new thing he had learnt about her to memory.
“ …..Theodora….I wish I could take you to my bed and do that all again” he said languidly, already knowing that it was not possible. Their betrothal might see people turn a blind eye to some things, but Achilleas would not push his luck by keeping her away all night. “Eleven days can not come soon enough.” he added, sounding only a touch petulant.
He shifted, pushed up his elbow to see her face and swept her hair back, a lazy smile spreading across his face as he took in her well-loved appearance. Cheeks flush and lips bruised with kissing, it was all he could do not to ignore his common sense and keep her with him anyway. He leant in to kiss her again.
Achilleas himself was radiating a cat-that-got-the-cream sort of smugness, eyes drowsy but appreciative as they looked down upon her. He watched her steadily for a moment, before he spoke. “ Are you..” sore he almost asked, but then bit it off, dropping in “cold?” as an alternative, as he considered their love making.
She had surprised him again, not at all hesitant, not..new to the ways to coax passion from a man, nor to his efforts in return. Looking at her, he didn’t know quite how he felt about it, some small spark of jealousy, possessiveness kindling somewhere, but Achilleas smothered it for now, not willing to let in intrude in the sweet stillness they had. For a few moments at least.
Where their skin touched was slick with sweat, but Achilleas could feel the chill from the marble tile seeping up through the rug beneath him, he was conscious of Theodora’s comfort too, and so reluctantly, he prompted her to move off him. Sitting up, he reached for the slip of fabric that was her dress, attempted to tug it gently back into its proper position so she might be a little more covered.
“ I am sorry that this was..” He was going to apologise for the fact that they had lain upon the floor after abandoning the bench, and for the fact that he could not bathe with her now and hold her as he wanted to, but the words would not come. For him at least, It had been so long anticipated that he could not bear to regret any moment of it.
“Next time” he amended, “ next time i will love you slowly and we will not be so soon parted.” He made the promise as he stood, stretched and then set about trying to set his own clothes back to something that would approach decent. He reached down a hand to help Theodora to her feet then, pulling her up and into his arms where he held her a long moment. “You don't regret it, I hope?”
It was afterwards, sprawled upon the floor with naught but a thin woven rug against his back that Achilleas would think he might have found a more..romantic staging for the moment. He was still catching his breath, could feel the frantic thudding of his heart gradually slowing to something more reasonable, and he wanted to laugh all of a sudden, giddy at his good fortune.
Theodora was in his arms, where he had longed for her to be for months, and she was more, more than he could ever have imagined. Ever so lightly, he traced circles over the smooth skin of her shoulder, replaying each moment of their joining, commiting each new thing he had learnt about her to memory.
“ …..Theodora….I wish I could take you to my bed and do that all again” he said languidly, already knowing that it was not possible. Their betrothal might see people turn a blind eye to some things, but Achilleas would not push his luck by keeping her away all night. “Eleven days can not come soon enough.” he added, sounding only a touch petulant.
He shifted, pushed up his elbow to see her face and swept her hair back, a lazy smile spreading across his face as he took in her well-loved appearance. Cheeks flush and lips bruised with kissing, it was all he could do not to ignore his common sense and keep her with him anyway. He leant in to kiss her again.
Achilleas himself was radiating a cat-that-got-the-cream sort of smugness, eyes drowsy but appreciative as they looked down upon her. He watched her steadily for a moment, before he spoke. “ Are you..” sore he almost asked, but then bit it off, dropping in “cold?” as an alternative, as he considered their love making.
She had surprised him again, not at all hesitant, not..new to the ways to coax passion from a man, nor to his efforts in return. Looking at her, he didn’t know quite how he felt about it, some small spark of jealousy, possessiveness kindling somewhere, but Achilleas smothered it for now, not willing to let in intrude in the sweet stillness they had. For a few moments at least.
Where their skin touched was slick with sweat, but Achilleas could feel the chill from the marble tile seeping up through the rug beneath him, he was conscious of Theodora’s comfort too, and so reluctantly, he prompted her to move off him. Sitting up, he reached for the slip of fabric that was her dress, attempted to tug it gently back into its proper position so she might be a little more covered.
“ I am sorry that this was..” He was going to apologise for the fact that they had lain upon the floor after abandoning the bench, and for the fact that he could not bathe with her now and hold her as he wanted to, but the words would not come. For him at least, It had been so long anticipated that he could not bear to regret any moment of it.
“Next time” he amended, “ next time i will love you slowly and we will not be so soon parted.” He made the promise as he stood, stretched and then set about trying to set his own clothes back to something that would approach decent. He reached down a hand to help Theodora to her feet then, pulling her up and into his arms where he held her a long moment. “You don't regret it, I hope?”
It had been... Different.
There had been no lack of passion, and the brunette had found herself easily wrapped up in the heat of the moment. It had been surprising and while Theodora was well aware of the ways of men, she hadn't expected her body to react to his the way it had.
As her heart was still racing and her body still working off the adrenaline, she couldn't but to feel a little sad. She refused to linger on it, of course. There was nothing sad about what had just transpired. There was nothing to good to be found in it.
At least the wouldn't have to worry about any form of lack of sexual tension. And that, by all counts, was another step in the right direction.
Lazily, Theodora gazed up at him. "While I wouldn't be against such a thing, I don't think the bench would handle another round." She cast a quick glance towards the bench they had used not too long ago: While it wasn't broken, its position... Well. "Tomorrow it'll only be ten." She turned her gaze towards him once more and grinned.
Her gaze followed him as he moved, his blue eyes taking in her face. It didn't take a fool to know she'd pleased him. In fact, he looked far more than pleased. Rather, it looked as if he'd just been granted some kind of trophy. Like he'd won.
"Until just now, I hadn't really considered it." She pursed her lips at that, though didn't necessarily feel particularly cold. How could she? "But no, not really." She offered lazily. "Are you?" In truth, she hadn't even thought about it. In the moment, it hadn't really matter, and even now it didn't.
Achilleas moved then and Theodora made no effort to stop him. Instead, just like his had, her fingers moved to rearrange her dress. She supposed she'd made the right choice of attire. Aside from the belt around her waist, the rest of the dress was fairly loose at the bottom, and it didn't take much effort to make herself look a little more presentable.
Raising her head, Theodora's eyebrows arched. What he'd intended to say she didn't know, though there seemed to be something pressing on his mind. What it was though, she couldn't gauge.
It was made rather clear then, and Theodora shook her head. "You have nothing to apologize for, nor should you ever." Clenching her hand in his, the brunette rose to her feet. It was a good thing then, that Achilleas brought her close. She felt a little wobbly, though a good kind of wobbly. She rested her cheek against his chest and shook her head as best as she could. "Of course not." She pressed.
She realized then, that she wasn't the only one who'd been sitting around with some insecurities. It seemed as if Achilleas had them too. Perhaps not about the same things, he was allowing himself to be vulnerable. If only just a little. It was a stark contrast to his usually composed and self controlling self. "You know." She said, her voice a little muffled against his chest. "If I regretted it, do you think I would look this happy?" Arching her head back, Theodora rose on the tips of her nose and kissed his lips. She was happy, she told herself.
Landing flatly back on her feet, Theodora looked over the room. "Next time, perhaps we should lock the doors." She arched her eyebrows at the doors: At least they'd been closed. Taking a step away, Theodora looked back up at him. "Do you have much work left to do?"
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
It had been... Different.
There had been no lack of passion, and the brunette had found herself easily wrapped up in the heat of the moment. It had been surprising and while Theodora was well aware of the ways of men, she hadn't expected her body to react to his the way it had.
As her heart was still racing and her body still working off the adrenaline, she couldn't but to feel a little sad. She refused to linger on it, of course. There was nothing sad about what had just transpired. There was nothing to good to be found in it.
At least the wouldn't have to worry about any form of lack of sexual tension. And that, by all counts, was another step in the right direction.
Lazily, Theodora gazed up at him. "While I wouldn't be against such a thing, I don't think the bench would handle another round." She cast a quick glance towards the bench they had used not too long ago: While it wasn't broken, its position... Well. "Tomorrow it'll only be ten." She turned her gaze towards him once more and grinned.
Her gaze followed him as he moved, his blue eyes taking in her face. It didn't take a fool to know she'd pleased him. In fact, he looked far more than pleased. Rather, it looked as if he'd just been granted some kind of trophy. Like he'd won.
"Until just now, I hadn't really considered it." She pursed her lips at that, though didn't necessarily feel particularly cold. How could she? "But no, not really." She offered lazily. "Are you?" In truth, she hadn't even thought about it. In the moment, it hadn't really matter, and even now it didn't.
Achilleas moved then and Theodora made no effort to stop him. Instead, just like his had, her fingers moved to rearrange her dress. She supposed she'd made the right choice of attire. Aside from the belt around her waist, the rest of the dress was fairly loose at the bottom, and it didn't take much effort to make herself look a little more presentable.
Raising her head, Theodora's eyebrows arched. What he'd intended to say she didn't know, though there seemed to be something pressing on his mind. What it was though, she couldn't gauge.
It was made rather clear then, and Theodora shook her head. "You have nothing to apologize for, nor should you ever." Clenching her hand in his, the brunette rose to her feet. It was a good thing then, that Achilleas brought her close. She felt a little wobbly, though a good kind of wobbly. She rested her cheek against his chest and shook her head as best as she could. "Of course not." She pressed.
She realized then, that she wasn't the only one who'd been sitting around with some insecurities. It seemed as if Achilleas had them too. Perhaps not about the same things, he was allowing himself to be vulnerable. If only just a little. It was a stark contrast to his usually composed and self controlling self. "You know." She said, her voice a little muffled against his chest. "If I regretted it, do you think I would look this happy?" Arching her head back, Theodora rose on the tips of her nose and kissed his lips. She was happy, she told herself.
Landing flatly back on her feet, Theodora looked over the room. "Next time, perhaps we should lock the doors." She arched her eyebrows at the doors: At least they'd been closed. Taking a step away, Theodora looked back up at him. "Do you have much work left to do?"
It had been... Different.
There had been no lack of passion, and the brunette had found herself easily wrapped up in the heat of the moment. It had been surprising and while Theodora was well aware of the ways of men, she hadn't expected her body to react to his the way it had.
As her heart was still racing and her body still working off the adrenaline, she couldn't but to feel a little sad. She refused to linger on it, of course. There was nothing sad about what had just transpired. There was nothing to good to be found in it.
At least the wouldn't have to worry about any form of lack of sexual tension. And that, by all counts, was another step in the right direction.
Lazily, Theodora gazed up at him. "While I wouldn't be against such a thing, I don't think the bench would handle another round." She cast a quick glance towards the bench they had used not too long ago: While it wasn't broken, its position... Well. "Tomorrow it'll only be ten." She turned her gaze towards him once more and grinned.
Her gaze followed him as he moved, his blue eyes taking in her face. It didn't take a fool to know she'd pleased him. In fact, he looked far more than pleased. Rather, it looked as if he'd just been granted some kind of trophy. Like he'd won.
"Until just now, I hadn't really considered it." She pursed her lips at that, though didn't necessarily feel particularly cold. How could she? "But no, not really." She offered lazily. "Are you?" In truth, she hadn't even thought about it. In the moment, it hadn't really matter, and even now it didn't.
Achilleas moved then and Theodora made no effort to stop him. Instead, just like his had, her fingers moved to rearrange her dress. She supposed she'd made the right choice of attire. Aside from the belt around her waist, the rest of the dress was fairly loose at the bottom, and it didn't take much effort to make herself look a little more presentable.
Raising her head, Theodora's eyebrows arched. What he'd intended to say she didn't know, though there seemed to be something pressing on his mind. What it was though, she couldn't gauge.
It was made rather clear then, and Theodora shook her head. "You have nothing to apologize for, nor should you ever." Clenching her hand in his, the brunette rose to her feet. It was a good thing then, that Achilleas brought her close. She felt a little wobbly, though a good kind of wobbly. She rested her cheek against his chest and shook her head as best as she could. "Of course not." She pressed.
She realized then, that she wasn't the only one who'd been sitting around with some insecurities. It seemed as if Achilleas had them too. Perhaps not about the same things, he was allowing himself to be vulnerable. If only just a little. It was a stark contrast to his usually composed and self controlling self. "You know." She said, her voice a little muffled against his chest. "If I regretted it, do you think I would look this happy?" Arching her head back, Theodora rose on the tips of her nose and kissed his lips. She was happy, she told herself.
Landing flatly back on her feet, Theodora looked over the room. "Next time, perhaps we should lock the doors." She arched her eyebrows at the doors: At least they'd been closed. Taking a step away, Theodora looked back up at him. "Do you have much work left to do?"
He had followed her gaze to the bench which had shifted a good couple of feet, and Achilleas grimaced a little. Perhaps it had not been quiet. But even that was not enough to take the shine of his contentment. The servants knew better than the speak of such matters, and if there were gossip..well, they were to be wed in days, so what did it matter.
As he helped Theodora to her feet, he was relieved when she would not brook his apology. He had not intended to get so carried away,it was why he had spoken so directly before, confident that she would want to delay, to hold off until they were married. But she had not, and he was not strong enough to resist the desire that had carried them then.
“You deserve wine and starlight and silk” he said, pulling her closer, doubling down on his promise to her. She would have these things.He would give them to her. And a room that noone would be like to burst into, he appended silently as she glanced toward the doors.
“Next time” he agreed, with a smile that verged upon sheepish. He crossed over to the bench and dragged it back into position, looking up in surprise at Theodora’s question.
Work? Reminded that he had been interrupted by her arrival earlier, Achilleas paused. He had plenty to do- he had managed to achieve exactly nothing prior to the most welcome distraction she had provided. But, it would wait until the morning, the Lord more concerned with getting his betrothed home
“Nothing that need be done tonight” he said, standing from the bench, eyeing it critically and then shrugging. He had tried. “Are you hungry?” he asked as he moved over to the table.
A cup of wine was pressed into her hand, Achilleas refilling it himself. He glanced at the food they had all but abandoned and laughed quietly. “ I have been a terrible host. You have been neither properly fed, nor presented to the rest of the household. If my Mother were here she would be terribly disappointed in me.”
He did not seem to be much concerned with his proclamation, instead dipping his head down to taste her again. He wondered if he would ever have enough and could not see how it would be so.
“Will you ride with me?” He meant to take her home, but realised he did not know how she had gotten here, and his brow creased. “ You didn’t come alone surely?” But he had seen no sign of a handmaid, and he frowned then. “Theodora? Tell me you did not come alone.” She would only have managed such a thing if she had snuck out, and it was neither appropriate nor safe for her to have done so.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
He had followed her gaze to the bench which had shifted a good couple of feet, and Achilleas grimaced a little. Perhaps it had not been quiet. But even that was not enough to take the shine of his contentment. The servants knew better than the speak of such matters, and if there were gossip..well, they were to be wed in days, so what did it matter.
As he helped Theodora to her feet, he was relieved when she would not brook his apology. He had not intended to get so carried away,it was why he had spoken so directly before, confident that she would want to delay, to hold off until they were married. But she had not, and he was not strong enough to resist the desire that had carried them then.
“You deserve wine and starlight and silk” he said, pulling her closer, doubling down on his promise to her. She would have these things.He would give them to her. And a room that noone would be like to burst into, he appended silently as she glanced toward the doors.
“Next time” he agreed, with a smile that verged upon sheepish. He crossed over to the bench and dragged it back into position, looking up in surprise at Theodora’s question.
Work? Reminded that he had been interrupted by her arrival earlier, Achilleas paused. He had plenty to do- he had managed to achieve exactly nothing prior to the most welcome distraction she had provided. But, it would wait until the morning, the Lord more concerned with getting his betrothed home
“Nothing that need be done tonight” he said, standing from the bench, eyeing it critically and then shrugging. He had tried. “Are you hungry?” he asked as he moved over to the table.
A cup of wine was pressed into her hand, Achilleas refilling it himself. He glanced at the food they had all but abandoned and laughed quietly. “ I have been a terrible host. You have been neither properly fed, nor presented to the rest of the household. If my Mother were here she would be terribly disappointed in me.”
He did not seem to be much concerned with his proclamation, instead dipping his head down to taste her again. He wondered if he would ever have enough and could not see how it would be so.
“Will you ride with me?” He meant to take her home, but realised he did not know how she had gotten here, and his brow creased. “ You didn’t come alone surely?” But he had seen no sign of a handmaid, and he frowned then. “Theodora? Tell me you did not come alone.” She would only have managed such a thing if she had snuck out, and it was neither appropriate nor safe for her to have done so.
He had followed her gaze to the bench which had shifted a good couple of feet, and Achilleas grimaced a little. Perhaps it had not been quiet. But even that was not enough to take the shine of his contentment. The servants knew better than the speak of such matters, and if there were gossip..well, they were to be wed in days, so what did it matter.
As he helped Theodora to her feet, he was relieved when she would not brook his apology. He had not intended to get so carried away,it was why he had spoken so directly before, confident that she would want to delay, to hold off until they were married. But she had not, and he was not strong enough to resist the desire that had carried them then.
“You deserve wine and starlight and silk” he said, pulling her closer, doubling down on his promise to her. She would have these things.He would give them to her. And a room that noone would be like to burst into, he appended silently as she glanced toward the doors.
“Next time” he agreed, with a smile that verged upon sheepish. He crossed over to the bench and dragged it back into position, looking up in surprise at Theodora’s question.
Work? Reminded that he had been interrupted by her arrival earlier, Achilleas paused. He had plenty to do- he had managed to achieve exactly nothing prior to the most welcome distraction she had provided. But, it would wait until the morning, the Lord more concerned with getting his betrothed home
“Nothing that need be done tonight” he said, standing from the bench, eyeing it critically and then shrugging. He had tried. “Are you hungry?” he asked as he moved over to the table.
A cup of wine was pressed into her hand, Achilleas refilling it himself. He glanced at the food they had all but abandoned and laughed quietly. “ I have been a terrible host. You have been neither properly fed, nor presented to the rest of the household. If my Mother were here she would be terribly disappointed in me.”
He did not seem to be much concerned with his proclamation, instead dipping his head down to taste her again. He wondered if he would ever have enough and could not see how it would be so.
“Will you ride with me?” He meant to take her home, but realised he did not know how she had gotten here, and his brow creased. “ You didn’t come alone surely?” But he had seen no sign of a handmaid, and he frowned then. “Theodora? Tell me you did not come alone.” She would only have managed such a thing if she had snuck out, and it was neither appropriate nor safe for her to have done so.
"I've already had wine, and there's plenty of starlight to go about. You don't need to fuss." She smiled at him. She was perfectly content with the way the evening had progressed. It could have been horrendous ― awkward and clumsy, but it hadn't been. She wouldn't lose sight of that. "We have plenty of time for wine, starlight and silk." She reminded him and placed a gentle kiss upon his lips.
She turned and followed his movement with her eyes, though thought little of the bench, or who might have heard. She had nothing to feel ashamed for, and neither did he. Who could really blame them? They were to be wed soon anyways, so whether this happened now, or eleven days from now hardly mattered. "Are you sure? I don't mind." She offered with a shrug. Then as if just remembering there had been food, Theodora look back towards the table and chuckled. Was she hungry? She wasn't sure. She didn't think so, but maybe she should have been?
As she contemplated an answer, the glass of wine returned to her hand and she looked down at it. "If your mother was here, I'm certain there would be something else pressing on her mind rather than whether or not I was fed." She cast another glance towards the bench, humor coloring her features as she took a sip of the wine. "You're fussing again." She commented with a slight shake to her head.
Theodora's lips parted only to quickly purse again. She couldn't help to feel a little guilty at the inquiry: She hadn't come alone, of course, but at some part of the afternoon, she had considered it. Simply leaving her house, taking a horse and riding over. Better judgement had caught up to her before she could have made such a stupid mistake. Thankfully. Sheepishly, the brunette shook her head. "I came with a maid. She's in the quarters." She offered with a slight shrug. "Though, I won't lie and say the thought hadn't crossed my mind."
"But yes." She quickly added. "I'd like that very much." The maid could take the carriage back and though Theodora was sure the older woman would make some fuss about it, she wouldn't be too hard to convince. It wouldn't be too strange of a request, after all.
Leaning in, Theodora whispered a warning. "Though, she might give you the evil eye for it." While her tone remained grave, there was obvious humor in her gaze. "She's very proper." With that, the brunette drew back, taking yet another sip of the wine, and it feeling its warmth slide down her throat and settle in the pit of her stomach.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
Badges
Deleted
Deleted
"I've already had wine, and there's plenty of starlight to go about. You don't need to fuss." She smiled at him. She was perfectly content with the way the evening had progressed. It could have been horrendous ― awkward and clumsy, but it hadn't been. She wouldn't lose sight of that. "We have plenty of time for wine, starlight and silk." She reminded him and placed a gentle kiss upon his lips.
She turned and followed his movement with her eyes, though thought little of the bench, or who might have heard. She had nothing to feel ashamed for, and neither did he. Who could really blame them? They were to be wed soon anyways, so whether this happened now, or eleven days from now hardly mattered. "Are you sure? I don't mind." She offered with a shrug. Then as if just remembering there had been food, Theodora look back towards the table and chuckled. Was she hungry? She wasn't sure. She didn't think so, but maybe she should have been?
As she contemplated an answer, the glass of wine returned to her hand and she looked down at it. "If your mother was here, I'm certain there would be something else pressing on her mind rather than whether or not I was fed." She cast another glance towards the bench, humor coloring her features as she took a sip of the wine. "You're fussing again." She commented with a slight shake to her head.
Theodora's lips parted only to quickly purse again. She couldn't help to feel a little guilty at the inquiry: She hadn't come alone, of course, but at some part of the afternoon, she had considered it. Simply leaving her house, taking a horse and riding over. Better judgement had caught up to her before she could have made such a stupid mistake. Thankfully. Sheepishly, the brunette shook her head. "I came with a maid. She's in the quarters." She offered with a slight shrug. "Though, I won't lie and say the thought hadn't crossed my mind."
"But yes." She quickly added. "I'd like that very much." The maid could take the carriage back and though Theodora was sure the older woman would make some fuss about it, she wouldn't be too hard to convince. It wouldn't be too strange of a request, after all.
Leaning in, Theodora whispered a warning. "Though, she might give you the evil eye for it." While her tone remained grave, there was obvious humor in her gaze. "She's very proper." With that, the brunette drew back, taking yet another sip of the wine, and it feeling its warmth slide down her throat and settle in the pit of her stomach.
"I've already had wine, and there's plenty of starlight to go about. You don't need to fuss." She smiled at him. She was perfectly content with the way the evening had progressed. It could have been horrendous ― awkward and clumsy, but it hadn't been. She wouldn't lose sight of that. "We have plenty of time for wine, starlight and silk." She reminded him and placed a gentle kiss upon his lips.
She turned and followed his movement with her eyes, though thought little of the bench, or who might have heard. She had nothing to feel ashamed for, and neither did he. Who could really blame them? They were to be wed soon anyways, so whether this happened now, or eleven days from now hardly mattered. "Are you sure? I don't mind." She offered with a shrug. Then as if just remembering there had been food, Theodora look back towards the table and chuckled. Was she hungry? She wasn't sure. She didn't think so, but maybe she should have been?
As she contemplated an answer, the glass of wine returned to her hand and she looked down at it. "If your mother was here, I'm certain there would be something else pressing on her mind rather than whether or not I was fed." She cast another glance towards the bench, humor coloring her features as she took a sip of the wine. "You're fussing again." She commented with a slight shake to her head.
Theodora's lips parted only to quickly purse again. She couldn't help to feel a little guilty at the inquiry: She hadn't come alone, of course, but at some part of the afternoon, she had considered it. Simply leaving her house, taking a horse and riding over. Better judgement had caught up to her before she could have made such a stupid mistake. Thankfully. Sheepishly, the brunette shook her head. "I came with a maid. She's in the quarters." She offered with a slight shrug. "Though, I won't lie and say the thought hadn't crossed my mind."
"But yes." She quickly added. "I'd like that very much." The maid could take the carriage back and though Theodora was sure the older woman would make some fuss about it, she wouldn't be too hard to convince. It wouldn't be too strange of a request, after all.
Leaning in, Theodora whispered a warning. "Though, she might give you the evil eye for it." While her tone remained grave, there was obvious humor in her gaze. "She's very proper." With that, the brunette drew back, taking yet another sip of the wine, and it feeling its warmth slide down her throat and settle in the pit of her stomach.