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Achilleas had paused, raised one brow. Was it arrogant? He had simply stated observations “ It is not only your expectations we have to contend ourselves with Theodora” he remarked, frowning again as she rolled her eyes as if he were the one being unreasonable.
There was the briefest of moments when he considered the possibility that he might be, but it was fleeting; Achilleas was not usually one to doubt himself. And so, he took the few moments required to shrug off the irritation at her attitude and settled himself beside her, laughing when she responded to him, her voice clinging on to her petulance.
“I shall try not to be offended at the deceit then” he replied, and thought things would be easier then, but he had underestimated the young woman’s tenacity. And Theodora seemed determined to be annoyed with him for a little while longer.
His peace offering, though accepted, was met with words that the Lord Mikaelidas was quick to dispel. “ I am not trying to get you drunk” he said tightly, feeling even his hard won patience stretch and thin.Though perhaps it might make you more agreeable company he appended silently, wondering if perhaps he should have snagged more wine and at least got himself drunk.
Though that would not likely have helped with the non-scandalous part of his decree
Deciding he would give it another few minutes and then, if Theodora was going to persist in being awkward, he would just dispatch a servant to tell her family of her whereabouts and be done with it. He did not have to sit here in the dirt and look at something he could not have. Nor try and make conversation with it.
As if perhaps she could sense his waning commitment, the young woman relented a little, and Achilleas glanced sideways at her, shook his head. “ Aah, no. I have never been one for sneaking” And truer words could not have been spoken. The eldest son of a Father who would accept no less that perfection, Achilleas had walked the straight and narrow for all of his life. Sneaking and other such nonsense was a luxury reserved for those with less pressure upon their shoulders, those whose actions were less closely scrutinized. The Baron of Euttica generally strived to do the best thing..the right thing, which was perhaps why he was slightly uncomfortable and yet fascinated with his attraction toward Theodora. He could not very well act upon unless such a thing were formalised or sanctioned by her head of House, and his own father.
Indeed, Theodora would have seen a different man entirely if Irakles had decided to put in an appearance at the day’s events - Achilleas much less likely to have been relaxed enough to think to pursue a conversation with her in such a casual manner. Perhaps she might have better understood his reservations then.
“If you come across any, you must let me know. There are enough moments I would escape that place.” The man frowned and fell silent, surprised that he had spoken a thought that he usually would not. Was it wine or this challenging girl that had him forget himself so easily?
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Achilleas had paused, raised one brow. Was it arrogant? He had simply stated observations “ It is not only your expectations we have to contend ourselves with Theodora” he remarked, frowning again as she rolled her eyes as if he were the one being unreasonable.
There was the briefest of moments when he considered the possibility that he might be, but it was fleeting; Achilleas was not usually one to doubt himself. And so, he took the few moments required to shrug off the irritation at her attitude and settled himself beside her, laughing when she responded to him, her voice clinging on to her petulance.
“I shall try not to be offended at the deceit then” he replied, and thought things would be easier then, but he had underestimated the young woman’s tenacity. And Theodora seemed determined to be annoyed with him for a little while longer.
His peace offering, though accepted, was met with words that the Lord Mikaelidas was quick to dispel. “ I am not trying to get you drunk” he said tightly, feeling even his hard won patience stretch and thin.Though perhaps it might make you more agreeable company he appended silently, wondering if perhaps he should have snagged more wine and at least got himself drunk.
Though that would not likely have helped with the non-scandalous part of his decree
Deciding he would give it another few minutes and then, if Theodora was going to persist in being awkward, he would just dispatch a servant to tell her family of her whereabouts and be done with it. He did not have to sit here in the dirt and look at something he could not have. Nor try and make conversation with it.
As if perhaps she could sense his waning commitment, the young woman relented a little, and Achilleas glanced sideways at her, shook his head. “ Aah, no. I have never been one for sneaking” And truer words could not have been spoken. The eldest son of a Father who would accept no less that perfection, Achilleas had walked the straight and narrow for all of his life. Sneaking and other such nonsense was a luxury reserved for those with less pressure upon their shoulders, those whose actions were less closely scrutinized. The Baron of Euttica generally strived to do the best thing..the right thing, which was perhaps why he was slightly uncomfortable and yet fascinated with his attraction toward Theodora. He could not very well act upon unless such a thing were formalised or sanctioned by her head of House, and his own father.
Indeed, Theodora would have seen a different man entirely if Irakles had decided to put in an appearance at the day’s events - Achilleas much less likely to have been relaxed enough to think to pursue a conversation with her in such a casual manner. Perhaps she might have better understood his reservations then.
“If you come across any, you must let me know. There are enough moments I would escape that place.” The man frowned and fell silent, surprised that he had spoken a thought that he usually would not. Was it wine or this challenging girl that had him forget himself so easily?
Achilleas had paused, raised one brow. Was it arrogant? He had simply stated observations “ It is not only your expectations we have to contend ourselves with Theodora” he remarked, frowning again as she rolled her eyes as if he were the one being unreasonable.
There was the briefest of moments when he considered the possibility that he might be, but it was fleeting; Achilleas was not usually one to doubt himself. And so, he took the few moments required to shrug off the irritation at her attitude and settled himself beside her, laughing when she responded to him, her voice clinging on to her petulance.
“I shall try not to be offended at the deceit then” he replied, and thought things would be easier then, but he had underestimated the young woman’s tenacity. And Theodora seemed determined to be annoyed with him for a little while longer.
His peace offering, though accepted, was met with words that the Lord Mikaelidas was quick to dispel. “ I am not trying to get you drunk” he said tightly, feeling even his hard won patience stretch and thin.Though perhaps it might make you more agreeable company he appended silently, wondering if perhaps he should have snagged more wine and at least got himself drunk.
Though that would not likely have helped with the non-scandalous part of his decree
Deciding he would give it another few minutes and then, if Theodora was going to persist in being awkward, he would just dispatch a servant to tell her family of her whereabouts and be done with it. He did not have to sit here in the dirt and look at something he could not have. Nor try and make conversation with it.
As if perhaps she could sense his waning commitment, the young woman relented a little, and Achilleas glanced sideways at her, shook his head. “ Aah, no. I have never been one for sneaking” And truer words could not have been spoken. The eldest son of a Father who would accept no less that perfection, Achilleas had walked the straight and narrow for all of his life. Sneaking and other such nonsense was a luxury reserved for those with less pressure upon their shoulders, those whose actions were less closely scrutinized. The Baron of Euttica generally strived to do the best thing..the right thing, which was perhaps why he was slightly uncomfortable and yet fascinated with his attraction toward Theodora. He could not very well act upon unless such a thing were formalised or sanctioned by her head of House, and his own father.
Indeed, Theodora would have seen a different man entirely if Irakles had decided to put in an appearance at the day’s events - Achilleas much less likely to have been relaxed enough to think to pursue a conversation with her in such a casual manner. Perhaps she might have better understood his reservations then.
“If you come across any, you must let me know. There are enough moments I would escape that place.” The man frowned and fell silent, surprised that he had spoken a thought that he usually would not. Was it wine or this challenging girl that had him forget himself so easily?
"Why else would an older man offer a seventeen year old girl wine?" She countered, though, some of the edge had been washed away from her tone. There might have been a hint of humor hidden somewhere laced between her words, but Theodora did her best not to let it show.
Theodora didn't doubt his words. In fact, she could easily see them to be true. Achilleas didn't strike her as the the type of person who had grown up with very loose rules. Rather the opposite. For someone so young, he was incredibly mature. Infuriatingly so, at times. Perhaps that was why she enjoyed it so much, the few times she had been able to coax him out of his shell.
It felt incredibly rewarding. In an incredibly selfish and prideful way. "I suppose not." She said, her lips pursing in thought. Besides, her first time at court had been... Distracting. And not entirely voluntarily so. After that, Theodora had stuck to her mother's side for the most part.
Perhaps it was a good thing the two hadn't crossed paths that day.
Turning her head to look at him then, Theodora furrowed her brows. "What is it that you'd like to escape from?" She asked curiously. He had a lot more freedom than she had ― he could go wherever he pleased, within reason anyway. He had his own barony. He was his own master. What freedom could he possible seek out that was not already within his grasp?
She envied him that. The sense of freedom that came with being your own boss. Of course, he still had to follow common sense and the rules of the senate, but all in all, he wasn't nearly as restricted nor as confined as she herself felt. And Theodora feared that restriction would only increase the older she got. The older she got, the more responsibility she would have. And eventually, she would have to marry and become some lord's brooding mare.
Surely, no love could ever be born from an arranged marriage she had no hand in, could it?
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"Why else would an older man offer a seventeen year old girl wine?" She countered, though, some of the edge had been washed away from her tone. There might have been a hint of humor hidden somewhere laced between her words, but Theodora did her best not to let it show.
Theodora didn't doubt his words. In fact, she could easily see them to be true. Achilleas didn't strike her as the the type of person who had grown up with very loose rules. Rather the opposite. For someone so young, he was incredibly mature. Infuriatingly so, at times. Perhaps that was why she enjoyed it so much, the few times she had been able to coax him out of his shell.
It felt incredibly rewarding. In an incredibly selfish and prideful way. "I suppose not." She said, her lips pursing in thought. Besides, her first time at court had been... Distracting. And not entirely voluntarily so. After that, Theodora had stuck to her mother's side for the most part.
Perhaps it was a good thing the two hadn't crossed paths that day.
Turning her head to look at him then, Theodora furrowed her brows. "What is it that you'd like to escape from?" She asked curiously. He had a lot more freedom than she had ― he could go wherever he pleased, within reason anyway. He had his own barony. He was his own master. What freedom could he possible seek out that was not already within his grasp?
She envied him that. The sense of freedom that came with being your own boss. Of course, he still had to follow common sense and the rules of the senate, but all in all, he wasn't nearly as restricted nor as confined as she herself felt. And Theodora feared that restriction would only increase the older she got. The older she got, the more responsibility she would have. And eventually, she would have to marry and become some lord's brooding mare.
Surely, no love could ever be born from an arranged marriage she had no hand in, could it?
"Why else would an older man offer a seventeen year old girl wine?" She countered, though, some of the edge had been washed away from her tone. There might have been a hint of humor hidden somewhere laced between her words, but Theodora did her best not to let it show.
Theodora didn't doubt his words. In fact, she could easily see them to be true. Achilleas didn't strike her as the the type of person who had grown up with very loose rules. Rather the opposite. For someone so young, he was incredibly mature. Infuriatingly so, at times. Perhaps that was why she enjoyed it so much, the few times she had been able to coax him out of his shell.
It felt incredibly rewarding. In an incredibly selfish and prideful way. "I suppose not." She said, her lips pursing in thought. Besides, her first time at court had been... Distracting. And not entirely voluntarily so. After that, Theodora had stuck to her mother's side for the most part.
Perhaps it was a good thing the two hadn't crossed paths that day.
Turning her head to look at him then, Theodora furrowed her brows. "What is it that you'd like to escape from?" She asked curiously. He had a lot more freedom than she had ― he could go wherever he pleased, within reason anyway. He had his own barony. He was his own master. What freedom could he possible seek out that was not already within his grasp?
She envied him that. The sense of freedom that came with being your own boss. Of course, he still had to follow common sense and the rules of the senate, but all in all, he wasn't nearly as restricted nor as confined as she herself felt. And Theodora feared that restriction would only increase the older she got. The older she got, the more responsibility she would have. And eventually, she would have to marry and become some lord's brooding mare.
Surely, no love could ever be born from an arranged marriage she had no hand in, could it?
“Perhaps to sweeten her sour mood” Achilleas replied, barely restraining a sigh. “If you don’t want it, give it back, because I will certainly drink it”
He wondered if he should have been so honest with her, thought perhaps she might be more partial to someone who shared her sense of adventure, and then he reminded himself that he didn’t want her to be partial to him. Or he did, but it would not be conducive to keeping a respectful distance. He did not want her not to be partial to him anyway.
He probably should not have any more wine.
When she posed her question, Achilleas turned to look at her, as if surprised at her words. He wasn’t sure anyone had asked him that before. Nor was he certain that he trusted her well enough to speak the truth. The young Lord met her gaze and held it a moment and he realised he did not want to say anything more. He was Achilleas of Mikaelidas, he had a reputation that he had worked hard to build, and he was not about to undermine it by spilling his secrets to a young woman who was now part of the court of Taengea, no matter how taken he was with her. And perhaps he was also not ready to let go of the shine of that reputation when it came to the girl beside him. Let her bask in it, feel its warmth. That would do no harm, he was sure.
“Ah, I was being dramatic” he said, with a shrug “ What do I have to complain of?” He could be convincing when he wanted to, and he employed that to full effect, showing her a smile of even white teeth, blue eyes merry. And it was not altogether false - he enjoyed his work, and could not bemoan the advantages that his lineage had gifted him. If there were a certain..flatness on occasion then he could put it down to the fact that whenever he thought he had reached a goal, his father had found a new one, something else out of reach that he was demanding, and never even a word of acknowledgement for what his son had already delivered.
“But it is all new to you, isn’t it? Why not tell me what the girl who likes to run barefoot in the fields makes of the court of Taengea?”
He could admit to himself, such occasions would hold a little more interest to him, knowing that she might be in attendance.
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“Perhaps to sweeten her sour mood” Achilleas replied, barely restraining a sigh. “If you don’t want it, give it back, because I will certainly drink it”
He wondered if he should have been so honest with her, thought perhaps she might be more partial to someone who shared her sense of adventure, and then he reminded himself that he didn’t want her to be partial to him. Or he did, but it would not be conducive to keeping a respectful distance. He did not want her not to be partial to him anyway.
He probably should not have any more wine.
When she posed her question, Achilleas turned to look at her, as if surprised at her words. He wasn’t sure anyone had asked him that before. Nor was he certain that he trusted her well enough to speak the truth. The young Lord met her gaze and held it a moment and he realised he did not want to say anything more. He was Achilleas of Mikaelidas, he had a reputation that he had worked hard to build, and he was not about to undermine it by spilling his secrets to a young woman who was now part of the court of Taengea, no matter how taken he was with her. And perhaps he was also not ready to let go of the shine of that reputation when it came to the girl beside him. Let her bask in it, feel its warmth. That would do no harm, he was sure.
“Ah, I was being dramatic” he said, with a shrug “ What do I have to complain of?” He could be convincing when he wanted to, and he employed that to full effect, showing her a smile of even white teeth, blue eyes merry. And it was not altogether false - he enjoyed his work, and could not bemoan the advantages that his lineage had gifted him. If there were a certain..flatness on occasion then he could put it down to the fact that whenever he thought he had reached a goal, his father had found a new one, something else out of reach that he was demanding, and never even a word of acknowledgement for what his son had already delivered.
“But it is all new to you, isn’t it? Why not tell me what the girl who likes to run barefoot in the fields makes of the court of Taengea?”
He could admit to himself, such occasions would hold a little more interest to him, knowing that she might be in attendance.
“Perhaps to sweeten her sour mood” Achilleas replied, barely restraining a sigh. “If you don’t want it, give it back, because I will certainly drink it”
He wondered if he should have been so honest with her, thought perhaps she might be more partial to someone who shared her sense of adventure, and then he reminded himself that he didn’t want her to be partial to him. Or he did, but it would not be conducive to keeping a respectful distance. He did not want her not to be partial to him anyway.
He probably should not have any more wine.
When she posed her question, Achilleas turned to look at her, as if surprised at her words. He wasn’t sure anyone had asked him that before. Nor was he certain that he trusted her well enough to speak the truth. The young Lord met her gaze and held it a moment and he realised he did not want to say anything more. He was Achilleas of Mikaelidas, he had a reputation that he had worked hard to build, and he was not about to undermine it by spilling his secrets to a young woman who was now part of the court of Taengea, no matter how taken he was with her. And perhaps he was also not ready to let go of the shine of that reputation when it came to the girl beside him. Let her bask in it, feel its warmth. That would do no harm, he was sure.
“Ah, I was being dramatic” he said, with a shrug “ What do I have to complain of?” He could be convincing when he wanted to, and he employed that to full effect, showing her a smile of even white teeth, blue eyes merry. And it was not altogether false - he enjoyed his work, and could not bemoan the advantages that his lineage had gifted him. If there were a certain..flatness on occasion then he could put it down to the fact that whenever he thought he had reached a goal, his father had found a new one, something else out of reach that he was demanding, and never even a word of acknowledgement for what his son had already delivered.
“But it is all new to you, isn’t it? Why not tell me what the girl who likes to run barefoot in the fields makes of the court of Taengea?”
He could admit to himself, such occasions would hold a little more interest to him, knowing that she might be in attendance.
"No." She said, quickly lifting the cup to her lips and taking another swallow. "It's mine now." Stubbornly, she tightened her grip around the cup, and though he could likely very easily wrestle if from her hands if he so chose, she wouldn't make it easy for him.
She also chose to ignore the 'sour mood' comment. If he didn't want her to be in one, he had quite a lot to learn. Like for example how to talk to a woman without insulting her. More than once. She knew she was being petty and childish, though couldn't quite help herself. When searching for it, it was far too easy to get offended by everything.
"Hmm." She mused, a small smile splaying over her lips as she leaned her head back against the shop's walls and looked up at the sky. "I think we all find something to complain about no matter how good our lives appear to outsiders." Because that was just it, wasn't it? It was human nature to want for what you couldn't have. To compare yourself, and your achievements (or lack thereof) to those of others. She wanted freedom, he had it. Perhaps there was something someone else had, that Achilleas didn't have, but wanted. The same could be said for everyone.
She considered his question: The court had been grand, of course. It had been everything a young girl like herself could have imagined. "It's all very grand." She began quietly. "Yet it feels very cramped at the same time." She turned her head to look at him, a smile tugging at her lips. Putting the book onto the ground, Theodora's attention returned to the cup of wine in her hand. The red liquid had already cast a gentle hue of pink across her cheeks, though she still felt clear minded. She swirled the contents of the cup and watched it go round and round and round.
"I think I much prefer the fields." She mused, though more so to herself.
Out there, she wasn't Theodora of Leventi. Out there... She simply was. And she had yet to find anywhere else that made her feel the same way. Still, she knew better than to really complain about the life she'd been given. She knew she was far luckier than most. She had been born with being given most things delivered on a silver platter, and there was a lot of people who couldn't say the same.
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"No." She said, quickly lifting the cup to her lips and taking another swallow. "It's mine now." Stubbornly, she tightened her grip around the cup, and though he could likely very easily wrestle if from her hands if he so chose, she wouldn't make it easy for him.
She also chose to ignore the 'sour mood' comment. If he didn't want her to be in one, he had quite a lot to learn. Like for example how to talk to a woman without insulting her. More than once. She knew she was being petty and childish, though couldn't quite help herself. When searching for it, it was far too easy to get offended by everything.
"Hmm." She mused, a small smile splaying over her lips as she leaned her head back against the shop's walls and looked up at the sky. "I think we all find something to complain about no matter how good our lives appear to outsiders." Because that was just it, wasn't it? It was human nature to want for what you couldn't have. To compare yourself, and your achievements (or lack thereof) to those of others. She wanted freedom, he had it. Perhaps there was something someone else had, that Achilleas didn't have, but wanted. The same could be said for everyone.
She considered his question: The court had been grand, of course. It had been everything a young girl like herself could have imagined. "It's all very grand." She began quietly. "Yet it feels very cramped at the same time." She turned her head to look at him, a smile tugging at her lips. Putting the book onto the ground, Theodora's attention returned to the cup of wine in her hand. The red liquid had already cast a gentle hue of pink across her cheeks, though she still felt clear minded. She swirled the contents of the cup and watched it go round and round and round.
"I think I much prefer the fields." She mused, though more so to herself.
Out there, she wasn't Theodora of Leventi. Out there... She simply was. And she had yet to find anywhere else that made her feel the same way. Still, she knew better than to really complain about the life she'd been given. She knew she was far luckier than most. She had been born with being given most things delivered on a silver platter, and there was a lot of people who couldn't say the same.
"No." She said, quickly lifting the cup to her lips and taking another swallow. "It's mine now." Stubbornly, she tightened her grip around the cup, and though he could likely very easily wrestle if from her hands if he so chose, she wouldn't make it easy for him.
She also chose to ignore the 'sour mood' comment. If he didn't want her to be in one, he had quite a lot to learn. Like for example how to talk to a woman without insulting her. More than once. She knew she was being petty and childish, though couldn't quite help herself. When searching for it, it was far too easy to get offended by everything.
"Hmm." She mused, a small smile splaying over her lips as she leaned her head back against the shop's walls and looked up at the sky. "I think we all find something to complain about no matter how good our lives appear to outsiders." Because that was just it, wasn't it? It was human nature to want for what you couldn't have. To compare yourself, and your achievements (or lack thereof) to those of others. She wanted freedom, he had it. Perhaps there was something someone else had, that Achilleas didn't have, but wanted. The same could be said for everyone.
She considered his question: The court had been grand, of course. It had been everything a young girl like herself could have imagined. "It's all very grand." She began quietly. "Yet it feels very cramped at the same time." She turned her head to look at him, a smile tugging at her lips. Putting the book onto the ground, Theodora's attention returned to the cup of wine in her hand. The red liquid had already cast a gentle hue of pink across her cheeks, though she still felt clear minded. She swirled the contents of the cup and watched it go round and round and round.
"I think I much prefer the fields." She mused, though more so to herself.
Out there, she wasn't Theodora of Leventi. Out there... She simply was. And she had yet to find anywhere else that made her feel the same way. Still, she knew better than to really complain about the life she'd been given. She knew she was far luckier than most. She had been born with being given most things delivered on a silver platter, and there was a lot of people who couldn't say the same.
He huffed out a laugh, amused at her stubborness now instead of irritated. “ Careful it doesn’t go to your head then” he said, slightly smugly. “ Being so young and all”. He mirrored her movements, leaning back further against the shut up stall at their back, tilting his head back and watching her out of eyes half closed against the angle of the sun as it slanted towards the horizon.
When she was not being obstinate, he liked hearing what she had to say. There was generally some sense to be found there, which is more than he could say for a good proportion of the courtiers back in Vasiliadon. “ And you? What do you complain about?”
He could agree with her surmissal of the grandeur of court too, for he knew more than most how restrictive it could be also. It was as natural to him as breathing, considering how things would appear to others, how an action might be construed, how carefully words and actions should be controlled. And on the rare occasion that he forgot, or slipped up. Well, he had the Prince to remind him.
Achilleas set his teeth against the thought, sat up and let his gaze roam over the crowds gathered here. It was not court. It was not Vasiliadon even, and most of the folk gathered had seen plenty of wine and sun. Himself included.
But it meant that perhaps there were not so many keen eyes about, and when he’d had the thought it would not leave him. Not when he turned to look at Theodora again, her fair skin sweetly flushed with even the little wine she had drunk, those dark eyes dipped to stare into the cup she held.
“Me too” Achilleas replied, thinking back to how simple it had felt when she was just a pretty girl in a field. He would have laid her down in the grass there and not given it a second thought, and now here he was sitting a foot away from her in case somebody got the wrong idea.
He would blame the wine later. But in that moment, Achilleas’ actions were very deliberate, almost as if he just tired of doing the expected. He did sweep a casual glance out and over the crowd to ensure noone watched too closely, and then he called her name, called her attention to him. “Theodora”
Without giving himself a moment to change his mind, he was there as she turned her head, so much closer than she might have expected as he braced his weight against his palm on the grass between them. And he caught her gaze, expression determined before his lips pressed against hers, warm and edged with the shadow of stubble. Achilleas gave her the kiss he had wanted in Macendia, not fleeting nor half-hearted but assured, definite, and with all the fervour to be expected after he had behaved so well, first in her father’s home, and then here.
He could have gone on, her lips petal soft tasted of wine, and he was heady with it, but some reason remained, and he finally broke away, pulling back to a respectable distance, unable to stop the silly grin that settled upon his face. “You will pardon my forwardness, Lady Theodora”
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He huffed out a laugh, amused at her stubborness now instead of irritated. “ Careful it doesn’t go to your head then” he said, slightly smugly. “ Being so young and all”. He mirrored her movements, leaning back further against the shut up stall at their back, tilting his head back and watching her out of eyes half closed against the angle of the sun as it slanted towards the horizon.
When she was not being obstinate, he liked hearing what she had to say. There was generally some sense to be found there, which is more than he could say for a good proportion of the courtiers back in Vasiliadon. “ And you? What do you complain about?”
He could agree with her surmissal of the grandeur of court too, for he knew more than most how restrictive it could be also. It was as natural to him as breathing, considering how things would appear to others, how an action might be construed, how carefully words and actions should be controlled. And on the rare occasion that he forgot, or slipped up. Well, he had the Prince to remind him.
Achilleas set his teeth against the thought, sat up and let his gaze roam over the crowds gathered here. It was not court. It was not Vasiliadon even, and most of the folk gathered had seen plenty of wine and sun. Himself included.
But it meant that perhaps there were not so many keen eyes about, and when he’d had the thought it would not leave him. Not when he turned to look at Theodora again, her fair skin sweetly flushed with even the little wine she had drunk, those dark eyes dipped to stare into the cup she held.
“Me too” Achilleas replied, thinking back to how simple it had felt when she was just a pretty girl in a field. He would have laid her down in the grass there and not given it a second thought, and now here he was sitting a foot away from her in case somebody got the wrong idea.
He would blame the wine later. But in that moment, Achilleas’ actions were very deliberate, almost as if he just tired of doing the expected. He did sweep a casual glance out and over the crowd to ensure noone watched too closely, and then he called her name, called her attention to him. “Theodora”
Without giving himself a moment to change his mind, he was there as she turned her head, so much closer than she might have expected as he braced his weight against his palm on the grass between them. And he caught her gaze, expression determined before his lips pressed against hers, warm and edged with the shadow of stubble. Achilleas gave her the kiss he had wanted in Macendia, not fleeting nor half-hearted but assured, definite, and with all the fervour to be expected after he had behaved so well, first in her father’s home, and then here.
He could have gone on, her lips petal soft tasted of wine, and he was heady with it, but some reason remained, and he finally broke away, pulling back to a respectable distance, unable to stop the silly grin that settled upon his face. “You will pardon my forwardness, Lady Theodora”
He huffed out a laugh, amused at her stubborness now instead of irritated. “ Careful it doesn’t go to your head then” he said, slightly smugly. “ Being so young and all”. He mirrored her movements, leaning back further against the shut up stall at their back, tilting his head back and watching her out of eyes half closed against the angle of the sun as it slanted towards the horizon.
When she was not being obstinate, he liked hearing what she had to say. There was generally some sense to be found there, which is more than he could say for a good proportion of the courtiers back in Vasiliadon. “ And you? What do you complain about?”
He could agree with her surmissal of the grandeur of court too, for he knew more than most how restrictive it could be also. It was as natural to him as breathing, considering how things would appear to others, how an action might be construed, how carefully words and actions should be controlled. And on the rare occasion that he forgot, or slipped up. Well, he had the Prince to remind him.
Achilleas set his teeth against the thought, sat up and let his gaze roam over the crowds gathered here. It was not court. It was not Vasiliadon even, and most of the folk gathered had seen plenty of wine and sun. Himself included.
But it meant that perhaps there were not so many keen eyes about, and when he’d had the thought it would not leave him. Not when he turned to look at Theodora again, her fair skin sweetly flushed with even the little wine she had drunk, those dark eyes dipped to stare into the cup she held.
“Me too” Achilleas replied, thinking back to how simple it had felt when she was just a pretty girl in a field. He would have laid her down in the grass there and not given it a second thought, and now here he was sitting a foot away from her in case somebody got the wrong idea.
He would blame the wine later. But in that moment, Achilleas’ actions were very deliberate, almost as if he just tired of doing the expected. He did sweep a casual glance out and over the crowd to ensure noone watched too closely, and then he called her name, called her attention to him. “Theodora”
Without giving himself a moment to change his mind, he was there as she turned her head, so much closer than she might have expected as he braced his weight against his palm on the grass between them. And he caught her gaze, expression determined before his lips pressed against hers, warm and edged with the shadow of stubble. Achilleas gave her the kiss he had wanted in Macendia, not fleeting nor half-hearted but assured, definite, and with all the fervour to be expected after he had behaved so well, first in her father’s home, and then here.
He could have gone on, her lips petal soft tasted of wine, and he was heady with it, but some reason remained, and he finally broke away, pulling back to a respectable distance, unable to stop the silly grin that settled upon his face. “You will pardon my forwardness, Lady Theodora”
Arching her eyebrow at him, Theodora huffed. "Beats being an old man like yourself." It was a terrible attempt at an insult and she knew it. Yet, she would still defend it. Their age difference wasn't that great, really ― all things considered. Though, there was still enough for her to poke fun at, and that was far better than nothing.
Theodora huffed a laughter at his question. There was plenty of things she could complain about, yet they all seemed silly to speak out loud. "Perhaps I'll tell you some day." Whatever image of he had of her was one she'd rather keep over the light he'd see her in if she allowed her childish fantasies be birthed through words.
She didn't need yet another person chastise her for being ungrateful.
She wasn't so silly to think him being here didn't mean anything. While she didn't think much of it, it didn't take a fool to understand that whatever she had said and done had captured the lord's attention ― if only for a moment. It seemed important to him, that people's opinions of him remained pure and unscathed and therefore she would not push it.
While Theodora didn't mind the attention ― in fact, she quite enjoyed it ― she was not so foolish to think it would bare any fruit. She knew it would lead nowhere and that it would never amount to anything more than silly fantasies. In fact, the young girl had even come to terms with that.
She didn't hesitate to look up when he called for her attention, though wasn't offered much of a chance to ask him why before his eyes locked upon hers, silencing her tongue. It was only when his lips met hers that she felt the bolt of surprise course through her body. The surprise only lasted for a second before she felt herself lean into the kiss and return it.
It was much different from before. The kiss the two had shared in the field had been all her doing. A quick peck offered as a prize for solving her riddle. This, however, felt different. It was passionate ― almost demanding. It was enough so that her breath caught in her throat.
When he pulled away, all too soon, the touch of pink the wine had brought to her cheeks had been replaced by a deep crimson flush. Yet, she did not look away, but instead, huffed at his apology. "Now who's letting the wine get to their head." She huffed a laughter before leaning her head back against the cold, wooden surface behind her. It was a far better kiss than the one in the field. A far better kiss than any before it.
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Arching her eyebrow at him, Theodora huffed. "Beats being an old man like yourself." It was a terrible attempt at an insult and she knew it. Yet, she would still defend it. Their age difference wasn't that great, really ― all things considered. Though, there was still enough for her to poke fun at, and that was far better than nothing.
Theodora huffed a laughter at his question. There was plenty of things she could complain about, yet they all seemed silly to speak out loud. "Perhaps I'll tell you some day." Whatever image of he had of her was one she'd rather keep over the light he'd see her in if she allowed her childish fantasies be birthed through words.
She didn't need yet another person chastise her for being ungrateful.
She wasn't so silly to think him being here didn't mean anything. While she didn't think much of it, it didn't take a fool to understand that whatever she had said and done had captured the lord's attention ― if only for a moment. It seemed important to him, that people's opinions of him remained pure and unscathed and therefore she would not push it.
While Theodora didn't mind the attention ― in fact, she quite enjoyed it ― she was not so foolish to think it would bare any fruit. She knew it would lead nowhere and that it would never amount to anything more than silly fantasies. In fact, the young girl had even come to terms with that.
She didn't hesitate to look up when he called for her attention, though wasn't offered much of a chance to ask him why before his eyes locked upon hers, silencing her tongue. It was only when his lips met hers that she felt the bolt of surprise course through her body. The surprise only lasted for a second before she felt herself lean into the kiss and return it.
It was much different from before. The kiss the two had shared in the field had been all her doing. A quick peck offered as a prize for solving her riddle. This, however, felt different. It was passionate ― almost demanding. It was enough so that her breath caught in her throat.
When he pulled away, all too soon, the touch of pink the wine had brought to her cheeks had been replaced by a deep crimson flush. Yet, she did not look away, but instead, huffed at his apology. "Now who's letting the wine get to their head." She huffed a laughter before leaning her head back against the cold, wooden surface behind her. It was a far better kiss than the one in the field. A far better kiss than any before it.
Arching her eyebrow at him, Theodora huffed. "Beats being an old man like yourself." It was a terrible attempt at an insult and she knew it. Yet, she would still defend it. Their age difference wasn't that great, really ― all things considered. Though, there was still enough for her to poke fun at, and that was far better than nothing.
Theodora huffed a laughter at his question. There was plenty of things she could complain about, yet they all seemed silly to speak out loud. "Perhaps I'll tell you some day." Whatever image of he had of her was one she'd rather keep over the light he'd see her in if she allowed her childish fantasies be birthed through words.
She didn't need yet another person chastise her for being ungrateful.
She wasn't so silly to think him being here didn't mean anything. While she didn't think much of it, it didn't take a fool to understand that whatever she had said and done had captured the lord's attention ― if only for a moment. It seemed important to him, that people's opinions of him remained pure and unscathed and therefore she would not push it.
While Theodora didn't mind the attention ― in fact, she quite enjoyed it ― she was not so foolish to think it would bare any fruit. She knew it would lead nowhere and that it would never amount to anything more than silly fantasies. In fact, the young girl had even come to terms with that.
She didn't hesitate to look up when he called for her attention, though wasn't offered much of a chance to ask him why before his eyes locked upon hers, silencing her tongue. It was only when his lips met hers that she felt the bolt of surprise course through her body. The surprise only lasted for a second before she felt herself lean into the kiss and return it.
It was much different from before. The kiss the two had shared in the field had been all her doing. A quick peck offered as a prize for solving her riddle. This, however, felt different. It was passionate ― almost demanding. It was enough so that her breath caught in her throat.
When he pulled away, all too soon, the touch of pink the wine had brought to her cheeks had been replaced by a deep crimson flush. Yet, she did not look away, but instead, huffed at his apology. "Now who's letting the wine get to their head." She huffed a laughter before leaning her head back against the cold, wooden surface behind her. It was a far better kiss than the one in the field. A far better kiss than any before it.
He sat back, aware that he was grinning stupidly but quite unable to still the expression. Well then So much for not acting upon the desires that the Leventi girl stirred in him. Achilleas took a deep breath and tried to settle himself, distracting himself from the temptation that sat just next to him by plucking a piece of the long seagrass that sprouted from beneath the stall he braced himself upon. He threaded in through his fingers, laughed quietly at Theodora’s words.
“Perhaps you are right” It was a feeble excuse he knew, but it would serve well enough should it bear scrutiny at any point. Still smirking, the Lord Mikaelidas’ gaze lifted to their surrounds again, and he sighed, glad that his momentary indiscretion did not seem to have garnered any undue attention.
He was wary of letting himself look at Theodora, trying not to imagine how prettily she would be blushing, nor how her lips would look, just kissed. It was proving difficult though, and he wondered at the wisdom of having allowed himself that little taste. Had he just made everything infinitely harder?
Achilleas was quiet a moment longer before he thought he ought to speak, to say something more. Finally mastering his self-satisfied expression, he glanced askance at Theodora. “ So if I am blaming the wine, what is your excuse?”
She had kissed him back after all, had not held herself back, and he was not complaining. Still there was part of him cautious about her expectations. She was young still, what if she thought more of this than it was? Achilleas was not oblivious to the Lady Evelli’s attention to him earlier, and for a brief second, he hoped he had not just fallen prey to any orchestrated efforts. But Theodora did not seem the type, he thought. And she had been downright rude to him before. If she had been set out as some little honey trap she was not the most efficient, perhaps.
Though ultimately successful he mused, running the pad of his thumb over his lower lip, and then scraping a hand over the stubble beginning to shadow his jaw. “ That was not my intent when I came to speak to you today” he clarified, as if attempting to find his way back to a more even keel. “But it was nice nonetheless”
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He sat back, aware that he was grinning stupidly but quite unable to still the expression. Well then So much for not acting upon the desires that the Leventi girl stirred in him. Achilleas took a deep breath and tried to settle himself, distracting himself from the temptation that sat just next to him by plucking a piece of the long seagrass that sprouted from beneath the stall he braced himself upon. He threaded in through his fingers, laughed quietly at Theodora’s words.
“Perhaps you are right” It was a feeble excuse he knew, but it would serve well enough should it bear scrutiny at any point. Still smirking, the Lord Mikaelidas’ gaze lifted to their surrounds again, and he sighed, glad that his momentary indiscretion did not seem to have garnered any undue attention.
He was wary of letting himself look at Theodora, trying not to imagine how prettily she would be blushing, nor how her lips would look, just kissed. It was proving difficult though, and he wondered at the wisdom of having allowed himself that little taste. Had he just made everything infinitely harder?
Achilleas was quiet a moment longer before he thought he ought to speak, to say something more. Finally mastering his self-satisfied expression, he glanced askance at Theodora. “ So if I am blaming the wine, what is your excuse?”
She had kissed him back after all, had not held herself back, and he was not complaining. Still there was part of him cautious about her expectations. She was young still, what if she thought more of this than it was? Achilleas was not oblivious to the Lady Evelli’s attention to him earlier, and for a brief second, he hoped he had not just fallen prey to any orchestrated efforts. But Theodora did not seem the type, he thought. And she had been downright rude to him before. If she had been set out as some little honey trap she was not the most efficient, perhaps.
Though ultimately successful he mused, running the pad of his thumb over his lower lip, and then scraping a hand over the stubble beginning to shadow his jaw. “ That was not my intent when I came to speak to you today” he clarified, as if attempting to find his way back to a more even keel. “But it was nice nonetheless”
He sat back, aware that he was grinning stupidly but quite unable to still the expression. Well then So much for not acting upon the desires that the Leventi girl stirred in him. Achilleas took a deep breath and tried to settle himself, distracting himself from the temptation that sat just next to him by plucking a piece of the long seagrass that sprouted from beneath the stall he braced himself upon. He threaded in through his fingers, laughed quietly at Theodora’s words.
“Perhaps you are right” It was a feeble excuse he knew, but it would serve well enough should it bear scrutiny at any point. Still smirking, the Lord Mikaelidas’ gaze lifted to their surrounds again, and he sighed, glad that his momentary indiscretion did not seem to have garnered any undue attention.
He was wary of letting himself look at Theodora, trying not to imagine how prettily she would be blushing, nor how her lips would look, just kissed. It was proving difficult though, and he wondered at the wisdom of having allowed himself that little taste. Had he just made everything infinitely harder?
Achilleas was quiet a moment longer before he thought he ought to speak, to say something more. Finally mastering his self-satisfied expression, he glanced askance at Theodora. “ So if I am blaming the wine, what is your excuse?”
She had kissed him back after all, had not held herself back, and he was not complaining. Still there was part of him cautious about her expectations. She was young still, what if she thought more of this than it was? Achilleas was not oblivious to the Lady Evelli’s attention to him earlier, and for a brief second, he hoped he had not just fallen prey to any orchestrated efforts. But Theodora did not seem the type, he thought. And she had been downright rude to him before. If she had been set out as some little honey trap she was not the most efficient, perhaps.
Though ultimately successful he mused, running the pad of his thumb over his lower lip, and then scraping a hand over the stubble beginning to shadow his jaw. “ That was not my intent when I came to speak to you today” he clarified, as if attempting to find his way back to a more even keel. “But it was nice nonetheless”
Again, his gaze returned to their surroundings. While she knew that most people cared a great deal about their repuation, Achilleas seemed more worried than anyone she had ever seen before. His reputation wasn't the one that would sour if anyone had seen them, so why did he care so much?
"Are you saying I can't blame the wine, too?" She asked, raising her eyebrows as if daring him to say otherwise, but before he could formulate an answer, she continued, "I can blame youth if wine isn't an acceptable answer." She offered him something of a shrug at that. She could also blame curiosity, though only if he claimed the other two reasons were too bad. She didn't really think he would.
In truth, Theodora hadn't really expected to see him again after his visit to her family home. They might both be in the same circles now that she had entered the court, but there was still quite a lot of people who frequented there. The chances of seeing him again, let alone actually interacting with him was slim.
Did she expect anything from him? Of course not. She knew better than that, and if she had, she would have sought him out instead. But then, he'd been the one to seek her out, which posed a much larger question. What did the young lord expect? Surely, he wasn't looking for a wife, and Theodora had no interest in being one yet. She was far too young to settle down at such an age, and she had quite a lot of years ahead of her still.
Or so she hoped, anyway.
Looking at him, Theodora chuckled at his words. "Then pray tell, my lord, what exactly was your intent when you came to speak to me?" Perhaps he was lonely, or perhaps he needed something different in his life. Perhaps he was just looking for some kind of company that didn't automatically agree with him, or fawn over him like helpless child. If there was something the members of court were good at, it was sucking up to the right people.
She didn't doubt that could get tiresome after a while. "Though, I feel inclined to agree with you, I'm afraid it might go to your head. You seem plenty full of yourself as is." She grinned at him.
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Again, his gaze returned to their surroundings. While she knew that most people cared a great deal about their repuation, Achilleas seemed more worried than anyone she had ever seen before. His reputation wasn't the one that would sour if anyone had seen them, so why did he care so much?
"Are you saying I can't blame the wine, too?" She asked, raising her eyebrows as if daring him to say otherwise, but before he could formulate an answer, she continued, "I can blame youth if wine isn't an acceptable answer." She offered him something of a shrug at that. She could also blame curiosity, though only if he claimed the other two reasons were too bad. She didn't really think he would.
In truth, Theodora hadn't really expected to see him again after his visit to her family home. They might both be in the same circles now that she had entered the court, but there was still quite a lot of people who frequented there. The chances of seeing him again, let alone actually interacting with him was slim.
Did she expect anything from him? Of course not. She knew better than that, and if she had, she would have sought him out instead. But then, he'd been the one to seek her out, which posed a much larger question. What did the young lord expect? Surely, he wasn't looking for a wife, and Theodora had no interest in being one yet. She was far too young to settle down at such an age, and she had quite a lot of years ahead of her still.
Or so she hoped, anyway.
Looking at him, Theodora chuckled at his words. "Then pray tell, my lord, what exactly was your intent when you came to speak to me?" Perhaps he was lonely, or perhaps he needed something different in his life. Perhaps he was just looking for some kind of company that didn't automatically agree with him, or fawn over him like helpless child. If there was something the members of court were good at, it was sucking up to the right people.
She didn't doubt that could get tiresome after a while. "Though, I feel inclined to agree with you, I'm afraid it might go to your head. You seem plenty full of yourself as is." She grinned at him.
Again, his gaze returned to their surroundings. While she knew that most people cared a great deal about their repuation, Achilleas seemed more worried than anyone she had ever seen before. His reputation wasn't the one that would sour if anyone had seen them, so why did he care so much?
"Are you saying I can't blame the wine, too?" She asked, raising her eyebrows as if daring him to say otherwise, but before he could formulate an answer, she continued, "I can blame youth if wine isn't an acceptable answer." She offered him something of a shrug at that. She could also blame curiosity, though only if he claimed the other two reasons were too bad. She didn't really think he would.
In truth, Theodora hadn't really expected to see him again after his visit to her family home. They might both be in the same circles now that she had entered the court, but there was still quite a lot of people who frequented there. The chances of seeing him again, let alone actually interacting with him was slim.
Did she expect anything from him? Of course not. She knew better than that, and if she had, she would have sought him out instead. But then, he'd been the one to seek her out, which posed a much larger question. What did the young lord expect? Surely, he wasn't looking for a wife, and Theodora had no interest in being one yet. She was far too young to settle down at such an age, and she had quite a lot of years ahead of her still.
Or so she hoped, anyway.
Looking at him, Theodora chuckled at his words. "Then pray tell, my lord, what exactly was your intent when you came to speak to me?" Perhaps he was lonely, or perhaps he needed something different in his life. Perhaps he was just looking for some kind of company that didn't automatically agree with him, or fawn over him like helpless child. If there was something the members of court were good at, it was sucking up to the right people.
She didn't doubt that could get tiresome after a while. "Though, I feel inclined to agree with you, I'm afraid it might go to your head. You seem plenty full of yourself as is." She grinned at him.
He raised a skeptical brow, eyeing the barely touched wine that she held- her excuse was even more feeble than his own. But then Theodora laid claim to youthful naivety, and he supposed he could not argue with that, even if her actions did not exactly convince him of the truth of it.
“You can blame me” he supplied, looking her up and down. “After all, you were sitting here, innocently reading your book-that-is-not-a-diary before I imposed upon you.” Of course, last time he had tried to protect her by sacrifing himself, she had seemed almost irritated with him for it, he mused, remembering her face when he had spoken up to assure her father that unfortunate incident in Macendia had been of his own conception. Though perhaps he had no quite considered the light he was painting himself in doing so, the baron recalled, thinking how unimpressed Georgios had been, and how he had lost out on a good deal on those horses.
What had he been thinking?
When her question came at him, the easy smile he had worn slipped a moment, and Achilleas’ expression turned serious, his eyes resting on her face, almost searching in their intensity. “ I am not sure” came the confession, and still he looked at her as if hoping to find his answer somewhere there- in the depth of her gaze or the lips stained wine red with a remembered kiss.
“ You amuse me I suppose” the Lord said a moment later, dismissively. He had retreated behind the arrogance she would accuse him of in her next breath, for that was easier worn than the honest answer -that something about her had caught his attention and it tugged at him and would not be ignored.
Achilleas was not usually one to let his head be turned by a pretty girl, and so he found it a little unsettling that she had proven so difficult to remove from his thoughts. It would do him no good to entertain any ideas pertaining to her, this he knew, and yet here he was, doing nothing to put her from his mind. Doing the opposite in fact. He pressed his lips together in a firm line as he considered it. He had to stop.
There was a wry smile at the girl’s intimation that he was self-important, and the Lord Mikaelidas gave a small shake of his head. “ I see...well if that is how you feel, my Lady..” He had pushed to his feet and stood over her. “ Perhaps I should not inflict myself upon you any longer. Will you let me escort you back to your family now, or are you still determined to be stubborn?”
It was abrupt, his sudden shift in gears, but Achilleas was starting to question his own judgement when it came to Theodora, and suddenly found himself wanting to remove himself from the situation, take himself out of the path of temptation as it were. He extended a hand once again, poised ready to help her to her feet once again.
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He raised a skeptical brow, eyeing the barely touched wine that she held- her excuse was even more feeble than his own. But then Theodora laid claim to youthful naivety, and he supposed he could not argue with that, even if her actions did not exactly convince him of the truth of it.
“You can blame me” he supplied, looking her up and down. “After all, you were sitting here, innocently reading your book-that-is-not-a-diary before I imposed upon you.” Of course, last time he had tried to protect her by sacrifing himself, she had seemed almost irritated with him for it, he mused, remembering her face when he had spoken up to assure her father that unfortunate incident in Macendia had been of his own conception. Though perhaps he had no quite considered the light he was painting himself in doing so, the baron recalled, thinking how unimpressed Georgios had been, and how he had lost out on a good deal on those horses.
What had he been thinking?
When her question came at him, the easy smile he had worn slipped a moment, and Achilleas’ expression turned serious, his eyes resting on her face, almost searching in their intensity. “ I am not sure” came the confession, and still he looked at her as if hoping to find his answer somewhere there- in the depth of her gaze or the lips stained wine red with a remembered kiss.
“ You amuse me I suppose” the Lord said a moment later, dismissively. He had retreated behind the arrogance she would accuse him of in her next breath, for that was easier worn than the honest answer -that something about her had caught his attention and it tugged at him and would not be ignored.
Achilleas was not usually one to let his head be turned by a pretty girl, and so he found it a little unsettling that she had proven so difficult to remove from his thoughts. It would do him no good to entertain any ideas pertaining to her, this he knew, and yet here he was, doing nothing to put her from his mind. Doing the opposite in fact. He pressed his lips together in a firm line as he considered it. He had to stop.
There was a wry smile at the girl’s intimation that he was self-important, and the Lord Mikaelidas gave a small shake of his head. “ I see...well if that is how you feel, my Lady..” He had pushed to his feet and stood over her. “ Perhaps I should not inflict myself upon you any longer. Will you let me escort you back to your family now, or are you still determined to be stubborn?”
It was abrupt, his sudden shift in gears, but Achilleas was starting to question his own judgement when it came to Theodora, and suddenly found himself wanting to remove himself from the situation, take himself out of the path of temptation as it were. He extended a hand once again, poised ready to help her to her feet once again.
He raised a skeptical brow, eyeing the barely touched wine that she held- her excuse was even more feeble than his own. But then Theodora laid claim to youthful naivety, and he supposed he could not argue with that, even if her actions did not exactly convince him of the truth of it.
“You can blame me” he supplied, looking her up and down. “After all, you were sitting here, innocently reading your book-that-is-not-a-diary before I imposed upon you.” Of course, last time he had tried to protect her by sacrifing himself, she had seemed almost irritated with him for it, he mused, remembering her face when he had spoken up to assure her father that unfortunate incident in Macendia had been of his own conception. Though perhaps he had no quite considered the light he was painting himself in doing so, the baron recalled, thinking how unimpressed Georgios had been, and how he had lost out on a good deal on those horses.
What had he been thinking?
When her question came at him, the easy smile he had worn slipped a moment, and Achilleas’ expression turned serious, his eyes resting on her face, almost searching in their intensity. “ I am not sure” came the confession, and still he looked at her as if hoping to find his answer somewhere there- in the depth of her gaze or the lips stained wine red with a remembered kiss.
“ You amuse me I suppose” the Lord said a moment later, dismissively. He had retreated behind the arrogance she would accuse him of in her next breath, for that was easier worn than the honest answer -that something about her had caught his attention and it tugged at him and would not be ignored.
Achilleas was not usually one to let his head be turned by a pretty girl, and so he found it a little unsettling that she had proven so difficult to remove from his thoughts. It would do him no good to entertain any ideas pertaining to her, this he knew, and yet here he was, doing nothing to put her from his mind. Doing the opposite in fact. He pressed his lips together in a firm line as he considered it. He had to stop.
There was a wry smile at the girl’s intimation that he was self-important, and the Lord Mikaelidas gave a small shake of his head. “ I see...well if that is how you feel, my Lady..” He had pushed to his feet and stood over her. “ Perhaps I should not inflict myself upon you any longer. Will you let me escort you back to your family now, or are you still determined to be stubborn?”
It was abrupt, his sudden shift in gears, but Achilleas was starting to question his own judgement when it came to Theodora, and suddenly found himself wanting to remove himself from the situation, take himself out of the path of temptation as it were. He extended a hand once again, poised ready to help her to her feet once again.
"I don't make a habit of blaming someone else for something I was just as much part of myself." She countered. After all, she could easily have pushed him away and told him no, but the fact remained that she hadn't. Besides, it was nothing more than an innocent kiss. It was hardly the end of the world. And she would much rather not have a repeat of what had happened the last the two had met. It seemed as if most people had nothing against having the responsibility of their actions tossed onto other people. "If you can't bare the responsibility of your own actions, then you should not make them." She offered with a shrug.
Theodora couldn't help the snort that passed through her nose. "I amuse you?" Any other woman might have found themselves annoyed. Theodora simply laughed at that. "If you ever plan on making your future wife happy, you might consider working on your compliments." Still, it was hard not to miss how Achilleas seemed to retreat within himself. It was painfully clear that he wasn't used to dealing with people asking him direct questions. Or perhaps, he simply wasn't used to replying to them in the same fashion.
But such was the way of court, she supposed.
Furrowing her brows at his sudden urgency to leave her presence, Theodora's lips pursed. Had she offended him somehow? It would surely be the first time he'd taken anything she'd thrown at him to heart. Perhaps it was something of a sore subject, or perhaps there was something entirely else bothering him. It didn't really matter, though, because in the next moment, he was all but ready to ship her back off to her parents.
For a second or two, Theodora stared at his offered hand. Then, her brown eyes lifted to look at the man once more. "No." She simply said. Reaching for the book again, Theodora opened it and turned her gaze back towards the pages. If she'd wanted to be with her family, that was exactly where she'd be. And she was more than capable enough to find her own way there, when she so pleased.
"If you need an excuse to escape my presence, my lord." She began dryly: Whatever else the reason was, she couldn't garner. It was very clear that something had changed, and he was more than eager to leave her presence. "Making assumptions of how I feel about your ego isn't going to work. If you have nothing better to come up with, simply walking away without a word works just as well." She didn't look up from her book as she spoke, and her voice was flat, but not in any way aggressive or angry.
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"I don't make a habit of blaming someone else for something I was just as much part of myself." She countered. After all, she could easily have pushed him away and told him no, but the fact remained that she hadn't. Besides, it was nothing more than an innocent kiss. It was hardly the end of the world. And she would much rather not have a repeat of what had happened the last the two had met. It seemed as if most people had nothing against having the responsibility of their actions tossed onto other people. "If you can't bare the responsibility of your own actions, then you should not make them." She offered with a shrug.
Theodora couldn't help the snort that passed through her nose. "I amuse you?" Any other woman might have found themselves annoyed. Theodora simply laughed at that. "If you ever plan on making your future wife happy, you might consider working on your compliments." Still, it was hard not to miss how Achilleas seemed to retreat within himself. It was painfully clear that he wasn't used to dealing with people asking him direct questions. Or perhaps, he simply wasn't used to replying to them in the same fashion.
But such was the way of court, she supposed.
Furrowing her brows at his sudden urgency to leave her presence, Theodora's lips pursed. Had she offended him somehow? It would surely be the first time he'd taken anything she'd thrown at him to heart. Perhaps it was something of a sore subject, or perhaps there was something entirely else bothering him. It didn't really matter, though, because in the next moment, he was all but ready to ship her back off to her parents.
For a second or two, Theodora stared at his offered hand. Then, her brown eyes lifted to look at the man once more. "No." She simply said. Reaching for the book again, Theodora opened it and turned her gaze back towards the pages. If she'd wanted to be with her family, that was exactly where she'd be. And she was more than capable enough to find her own way there, when she so pleased.
"If you need an excuse to escape my presence, my lord." She began dryly: Whatever else the reason was, she couldn't garner. It was very clear that something had changed, and he was more than eager to leave her presence. "Making assumptions of how I feel about your ego isn't going to work. If you have nothing better to come up with, simply walking away without a word works just as well." She didn't look up from her book as she spoke, and her voice was flat, but not in any way aggressive or angry.
"I don't make a habit of blaming someone else for something I was just as much part of myself." She countered. After all, she could easily have pushed him away and told him no, but the fact remained that she hadn't. Besides, it was nothing more than an innocent kiss. It was hardly the end of the world. And she would much rather not have a repeat of what had happened the last the two had met. It seemed as if most people had nothing against having the responsibility of their actions tossed onto other people. "If you can't bare the responsibility of your own actions, then you should not make them." She offered with a shrug.
Theodora couldn't help the snort that passed through her nose. "I amuse you?" Any other woman might have found themselves annoyed. Theodora simply laughed at that. "If you ever plan on making your future wife happy, you might consider working on your compliments." Still, it was hard not to miss how Achilleas seemed to retreat within himself. It was painfully clear that he wasn't used to dealing with people asking him direct questions. Or perhaps, he simply wasn't used to replying to them in the same fashion.
But such was the way of court, she supposed.
Furrowing her brows at his sudden urgency to leave her presence, Theodora's lips pursed. Had she offended him somehow? It would surely be the first time he'd taken anything she'd thrown at him to heart. Perhaps it was something of a sore subject, or perhaps there was something entirely else bothering him. It didn't really matter, though, because in the next moment, he was all but ready to ship her back off to her parents.
For a second or two, Theodora stared at his offered hand. Then, her brown eyes lifted to look at the man once more. "No." She simply said. Reaching for the book again, Theodora opened it and turned her gaze back towards the pages. If she'd wanted to be with her family, that was exactly where she'd be. And she was more than capable enough to find her own way there, when she so pleased.
"If you need an excuse to escape my presence, my lord." She began dryly: Whatever else the reason was, she couldn't garner. It was very clear that something had changed, and he was more than eager to leave her presence. "Making assumptions of how I feel about your ego isn't going to work. If you have nothing better to come up with, simply walking away without a word works just as well." She didn't look up from her book as she spoke, and her voice was flat, but not in any way aggressive or angry.
His words had the desired effect, moved them away from the question of why he could not stay away from her, and turned her focus entirely onto something else. It was unfortunate perhaps that it was his poor manners, but Achilleas would take it over the other. He did not tell her that there were a thousand compliments just waiting to trip off his tongue and that was why he had instead said something so unflattering. She would not understand - if nothing else, the Lord was coming to learn that Theodora seemed to view things very much in black and white.
He didn’t react with much more than a shrug at her scolding, and then he was up on his feet and she was staring at his hand as if it were somehow insulting her,before burying her nose in her book once more. It was his turn to frown. This again?
But Theodora had not quite finished, and her words did not leave him much room for maneuver. Indeed, Achilleas opened his mouth to reply but found non, and so closed it again, stared at her. And that only irritated him further because he damn well wasn’t going to do exactly what she had suggested. He tried again.
“ Do I need an excuse?” he said. “ It has been a long day, I am tired. Perhaps you ought not to make assumptions that everything is about you.”
Words sharp and tone clipped, It was not at all how he had intended to to leave her, and he would kick himself for it later. Not to mention that it was patently a lie, because his wanting to leave was everything to do with her and the unpredictable actions she seeemed to provoke in him.
He was not unpredictable. He was steady and dependable.It was how things were.
But at that moment, Achilleas was thrown by how direct she was being. It was usually a thing he would appreciate, but from this girl? It left him him flustered and that was not a feeling he much liked.
The Lord of Mikaelidas drew himself up then, folded his hands behind his back and offered Theodora a smart bow. “I will take my leave of you then, Lady Theodora, and leave you to your book. I hope you enjoy the rest of the festivities.”She felt his gaze upon her but a moment longer before he breathed a quiet sigh and turned, a long legged stride carrying him quickly away from her and her infuriating manner.
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His words had the desired effect, moved them away from the question of why he could not stay away from her, and turned her focus entirely onto something else. It was unfortunate perhaps that it was his poor manners, but Achilleas would take it over the other. He did not tell her that there were a thousand compliments just waiting to trip off his tongue and that was why he had instead said something so unflattering. She would not understand - if nothing else, the Lord was coming to learn that Theodora seemed to view things very much in black and white.
He didn’t react with much more than a shrug at her scolding, and then he was up on his feet and she was staring at his hand as if it were somehow insulting her,before burying her nose in her book once more. It was his turn to frown. This again?
But Theodora had not quite finished, and her words did not leave him much room for maneuver. Indeed, Achilleas opened his mouth to reply but found non, and so closed it again, stared at her. And that only irritated him further because he damn well wasn’t going to do exactly what she had suggested. He tried again.
“ Do I need an excuse?” he said. “ It has been a long day, I am tired. Perhaps you ought not to make assumptions that everything is about you.”
Words sharp and tone clipped, It was not at all how he had intended to to leave her, and he would kick himself for it later. Not to mention that it was patently a lie, because his wanting to leave was everything to do with her and the unpredictable actions she seeemed to provoke in him.
He was not unpredictable. He was steady and dependable.It was how things were.
But at that moment, Achilleas was thrown by how direct she was being. It was usually a thing he would appreciate, but from this girl? It left him him flustered and that was not a feeling he much liked.
The Lord of Mikaelidas drew himself up then, folded his hands behind his back and offered Theodora a smart bow. “I will take my leave of you then, Lady Theodora, and leave you to your book. I hope you enjoy the rest of the festivities.”She felt his gaze upon her but a moment longer before he breathed a quiet sigh and turned, a long legged stride carrying him quickly away from her and her infuriating manner.
His words had the desired effect, moved them away from the question of why he could not stay away from her, and turned her focus entirely onto something else. It was unfortunate perhaps that it was his poor manners, but Achilleas would take it over the other. He did not tell her that there were a thousand compliments just waiting to trip off his tongue and that was why he had instead said something so unflattering. She would not understand - if nothing else, the Lord was coming to learn that Theodora seemed to view things very much in black and white.
He didn’t react with much more than a shrug at her scolding, and then he was up on his feet and she was staring at his hand as if it were somehow insulting her,before burying her nose in her book once more. It was his turn to frown. This again?
But Theodora had not quite finished, and her words did not leave him much room for maneuver. Indeed, Achilleas opened his mouth to reply but found non, and so closed it again, stared at her. And that only irritated him further because he damn well wasn’t going to do exactly what she had suggested. He tried again.
“ Do I need an excuse?” he said. “ It has been a long day, I am tired. Perhaps you ought not to make assumptions that everything is about you.”
Words sharp and tone clipped, It was not at all how he had intended to to leave her, and he would kick himself for it later. Not to mention that it was patently a lie, because his wanting to leave was everything to do with her and the unpredictable actions she seeemed to provoke in him.
He was not unpredictable. He was steady and dependable.It was how things were.
But at that moment, Achilleas was thrown by how direct she was being. It was usually a thing he would appreciate, but from this girl? It left him him flustered and that was not a feeling he much liked.
The Lord of Mikaelidas drew himself up then, folded his hands behind his back and offered Theodora a smart bow. “I will take my leave of you then, Lady Theodora, and leave you to your book. I hope you enjoy the rest of the festivities.”She felt his gaze upon her but a moment longer before he breathed a quiet sigh and turned, a long legged stride carrying him quickly away from her and her infuriating manner.
It wasn't necessarily the words that got to her, but rather the tone he used when presenting them. Sharp and clipped, as if speaking to some child that didn't know any better. Very similar to how her father often talked to her when he was displeased. Similar to how everyone talked to her when they were displeased.
It was nothing if not infuriating. Staring at him, she could feel the annoyance bubble within.
And it wasn't just the manner of which he'd just talked to her too. It was about how he'd swooped in, trying to save her from her father's ire as if she was some helpless damsel in distress that couldn't do anything for herself. It was about how he always played hot and cold, and whenever pressed about it, acted as if he didn't have a single care in the whole world. As if he could do whatever he damn pleased and blame it all on her being a petty child that needed chastising.
It was about how demeanor had immediately changed upon learning her name and title. And about how he kept approaching her and taking whatever he wanted until he was full, then walking away without a proper explanation.
And more than that, it was about how he amused her.
No. Theodora refused to be treated like some helpless child that simply didn't know any better. She refused to be treated like someone who had to be put in their place.
She didn't say anything. She didn't move. Not until he'd announced his departure. Calm and collected. Dismissing her just like that. Pushing herself to her feet, Theodora's fingers curled around the book as she pulled her arm back, and before she could react, her body moved on its own volition. Her eyes followed the book as it was hurled towards the lord.
It was only then that the rational part of her brain kicked in and she realized what she'd just done. Rather than apologizing, and rather than asking him if he was alright, the brunette was rather quick on her feet as she stepped back and then to the side, pushing herself behind the closed down shop stall, and out of sight. Pressing her back against the wooden surface, Theodora slapped the palm of her hand against her forehead.
So much for not being a child.
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It wasn't necessarily the words that got to her, but rather the tone he used when presenting them. Sharp and clipped, as if speaking to some child that didn't know any better. Very similar to how her father often talked to her when he was displeased. Similar to how everyone talked to her when they were displeased.
It was nothing if not infuriating. Staring at him, she could feel the annoyance bubble within.
And it wasn't just the manner of which he'd just talked to her too. It was about how he'd swooped in, trying to save her from her father's ire as if she was some helpless damsel in distress that couldn't do anything for herself. It was about how he always played hot and cold, and whenever pressed about it, acted as if he didn't have a single care in the whole world. As if he could do whatever he damn pleased and blame it all on her being a petty child that needed chastising.
It was about how demeanor had immediately changed upon learning her name and title. And about how he kept approaching her and taking whatever he wanted until he was full, then walking away without a proper explanation.
And more than that, it was about how he amused her.
No. Theodora refused to be treated like some helpless child that simply didn't know any better. She refused to be treated like someone who had to be put in their place.
She didn't say anything. She didn't move. Not until he'd announced his departure. Calm and collected. Dismissing her just like that. Pushing herself to her feet, Theodora's fingers curled around the book as she pulled her arm back, and before she could react, her body moved on its own volition. Her eyes followed the book as it was hurled towards the lord.
It was only then that the rational part of her brain kicked in and she realized what she'd just done. Rather than apologizing, and rather than asking him if he was alright, the brunette was rather quick on her feet as she stepped back and then to the side, pushing herself behind the closed down shop stall, and out of sight. Pressing her back against the wooden surface, Theodora slapped the palm of her hand against her forehead.
So much for not being a child.
It wasn't necessarily the words that got to her, but rather the tone he used when presenting them. Sharp and clipped, as if speaking to some child that didn't know any better. Very similar to how her father often talked to her when he was displeased. Similar to how everyone talked to her when they were displeased.
It was nothing if not infuriating. Staring at him, she could feel the annoyance bubble within.
And it wasn't just the manner of which he'd just talked to her too. It was about how he'd swooped in, trying to save her from her father's ire as if she was some helpless damsel in distress that couldn't do anything for herself. It was about how he always played hot and cold, and whenever pressed about it, acted as if he didn't have a single care in the whole world. As if he could do whatever he damn pleased and blame it all on her being a petty child that needed chastising.
It was about how demeanor had immediately changed upon learning her name and title. And about how he kept approaching her and taking whatever he wanted until he was full, then walking away without a proper explanation.
And more than that, it was about how he amused her.
No. Theodora refused to be treated like some helpless child that simply didn't know any better. She refused to be treated like someone who had to be put in their place.
She didn't say anything. She didn't move. Not until he'd announced his departure. Calm and collected. Dismissing her just like that. Pushing herself to her feet, Theodora's fingers curled around the book as she pulled her arm back, and before she could react, her body moved on its own volition. Her eyes followed the book as it was hurled towards the lord.
It was only then that the rational part of her brain kicked in and she realized what she'd just done. Rather than apologizing, and rather than asking him if he was alright, the brunette was rather quick on her feet as she stepped back and then to the side, pushing herself behind the closed down shop stall, and out of sight. Pressing her back against the wooden surface, Theodora slapped the palm of her hand against her forehead.
So much for not being a child.
Achilleas was trying to convince himself that his exit had been necessary and not as poorly executed as he feared. It was for the best, anyway and he...
Whatever thought had been forming was cut off when something smacked him in the back of the head. Hard. Ducking forwards, the lord reached up to rub at his skull, turning to see what had struck him. He paused when at his feet he caught sight of a familiar looking leather bound book.
As if she had..
There was a faint sense of disbelief as Achilleas bent to retrieve it, and his expression was hard when he looked back up to find its owner, less than amused. Girl or no, Theodora had a good arm on her it would seem. Words of reproach were already forming on his tongue and he breathed in, ready to speak then.
When he looked to where he had left her not moments before though, there was only empty space, and the man stood there as he tried to decide if he should seek her out. She could not have got far, after all.
But before he could move, Achilleas caught himself. Had he not just pulled himself away? And ready again to go back for more? This was exactly why he needed to keep clear of the girl. A distraction he could hardly afford, and that had no possible future.
He turned the book in his hands, let out a soft snort of amusement. Perhaps then, his exit had been that poorly executed
He lifted his gaze once again to where he had sat with Theodora, and then glanced around as if suddenly aware that there were others present. Finding himself in no mood for further socialising, the Lord Mikaelidas clasped the book in his left hand, picked up a cup of wine with the other and made his way through the crowds.
Luckily it was not a particularly weighty tome, and other than a slight knot he could feel forming and the inevitable dent to his -already over large according to his attacker- ego, Achilleas was unharmed. But as he moved off, ready to leave the festival behind him, he could not help but think Theodora had left more of a mark on him than she had intended.
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Achilleas was trying to convince himself that his exit had been necessary and not as poorly executed as he feared. It was for the best, anyway and he...
Whatever thought had been forming was cut off when something smacked him in the back of the head. Hard. Ducking forwards, the lord reached up to rub at his skull, turning to see what had struck him. He paused when at his feet he caught sight of a familiar looking leather bound book.
As if she had..
There was a faint sense of disbelief as Achilleas bent to retrieve it, and his expression was hard when he looked back up to find its owner, less than amused. Girl or no, Theodora had a good arm on her it would seem. Words of reproach were already forming on his tongue and he breathed in, ready to speak then.
When he looked to where he had left her not moments before though, there was only empty space, and the man stood there as he tried to decide if he should seek her out. She could not have got far, after all.
But before he could move, Achilleas caught himself. Had he not just pulled himself away? And ready again to go back for more? This was exactly why he needed to keep clear of the girl. A distraction he could hardly afford, and that had no possible future.
He turned the book in his hands, let out a soft snort of amusement. Perhaps then, his exit had been that poorly executed
He lifted his gaze once again to where he had sat with Theodora, and then glanced around as if suddenly aware that there were others present. Finding himself in no mood for further socialising, the Lord Mikaelidas clasped the book in his left hand, picked up a cup of wine with the other and made his way through the crowds.
Luckily it was not a particularly weighty tome, and other than a slight knot he could feel forming and the inevitable dent to his -already over large according to his attacker- ego, Achilleas was unharmed. But as he moved off, ready to leave the festival behind him, he could not help but think Theodora had left more of a mark on him than she had intended.
Achilleas was trying to convince himself that his exit had been necessary and not as poorly executed as he feared. It was for the best, anyway and he...
Whatever thought had been forming was cut off when something smacked him in the back of the head. Hard. Ducking forwards, the lord reached up to rub at his skull, turning to see what had struck him. He paused when at his feet he caught sight of a familiar looking leather bound book.
As if she had..
There was a faint sense of disbelief as Achilleas bent to retrieve it, and his expression was hard when he looked back up to find its owner, less than amused. Girl or no, Theodora had a good arm on her it would seem. Words of reproach were already forming on his tongue and he breathed in, ready to speak then.
When he looked to where he had left her not moments before though, there was only empty space, and the man stood there as he tried to decide if he should seek her out. She could not have got far, after all.
But before he could move, Achilleas caught himself. Had he not just pulled himself away? And ready again to go back for more? This was exactly why he needed to keep clear of the girl. A distraction he could hardly afford, and that had no possible future.
He turned the book in his hands, let out a soft snort of amusement. Perhaps then, his exit had been that poorly executed
He lifted his gaze once again to where he had sat with Theodora, and then glanced around as if suddenly aware that there were others present. Finding himself in no mood for further socialising, the Lord Mikaelidas clasped the book in his left hand, picked up a cup of wine with the other and made his way through the crowds.
Luckily it was not a particularly weighty tome, and other than a slight knot he could feel forming and the inevitable dent to his -already over large according to his attacker- ego, Achilleas was unharmed. But as he moved off, ready to leave the festival behind him, he could not help but think Theodora had left more of a mark on him than she had intended.
