After announcing the next meeting"s day and time, Richard dismissed them. “Val, what took you so long? I thought you changed your mind and joined court on progress.”
“Nay, progress is too like battle but with none of the glory. I needed attend to a task.” He sat in the window seat and looked over the busy river.
“I have meetings in London and will depart on the morrow. Lodge within if you wish,” Richard offered.
“Thank you anyway.” Valentine waved the offer off. “I"ll return to London.”
“I thought you might,” Richard displayed his half-grin.
They quit the chamber and Richard led him to the outer court. A gentle breeze played with Valentine"s hair. Breathing deeply of the fresh country air, he closed his eyes and enjoyed the twitter of birdsong in this moment of peace.
“A monumental t
