The trial was over and that evening everyone celebrated the release of Gertrude’s husband. Duke Max still wasn’t back yet from his trip, but he had already asked Gertrude to ask her husband to stay on as the groundskeeper for their lands. He could not offer much in the way of pay but the Duke could offer security and food for the family.
It was amidst the celebratory feast which ran late into the night that Prince Carl grabbed a flute and began playing it while the children danced.
Prince James grabbed Lily's hand, swinging her around in circles, urging her to dance with him. Laughing, Lily complied and her shining deep green eyes alight with happiness made Prince James want to lean down and kiss her. But he couldn't in front of everyone.
Luci watched the two from a distance, a small
