Anna runs into a familiar nobelman

Anna walked through the labyrinthine corridors of the bureau with a mixture of emotions. On the one hand she was very glad to be a step closer towards a safe life in the city. On the other she still had that debt to deal with. Those guards had left her alone for now but she knew it was only a matter of time before they came calling for her, anyone who knew she was in the city illegally was a threat to her.

Lost in her thoughts she almost didn't notice the smiling face of the nobel, Percival beaming at her.

"Anna! Oh how wonderful to see you!"

"Percival," Anna curtsied formally.

"You must be here about your residence application. All going well I assume, come sit with me, have you been to the garden, its simply wonderful and just this way." Without giving her a moment to protest he took her hand and led her down the corridor out into an inner courtyard of the bureau which held a simple but pretty garden with benches and a small fountain. Sitting them down on a bench he asked again, "All going well?"

"Ah, yes, my application will take over a month though."

"Blasted pen pushers, I wonder if I could speed it along..." he mused. Anna's eyes flashed at that, of course, Percival was the cousin of the Duke! If anyone could help her it was him. If Percival noticed her interest he didn't show it. "But anyhow, tell me, what are your plans this evening?"

"I, don't have any." Anna answered cautiously.

"Brilliant, then you must join me for dinner. Are you still staying at the Lusty Wench?" Anna nodded. "Then I shall send a carriage around this evening at sunset."

Anna tried her best to smile in thanks, though she didn't really feel like she had a choice in the matter. Swallowing her pride she figured it was definitely worth her while to continue this relationship.

"I would be delighted-" Anna was cut off as Percival placed a kiss on her lips. Anna's eyes widened in shock. His lips were soft and his hand gentle as he pressed himself on her. He was a handsome man, and the kiss was pleasant if uncalled for. Anna leaned back into it figuring this would at least be useful. Perival broke away.

"Sorry I couldn't resist, you are so beautiful." Despite herself Anna felt a flutter in her chest at the compliment.

They sat and talked for a little while longer until Percival made his exit. "Look forward to seeing you."

After he had left the garden Anna sorted out the ruffles in her dress and left the garden heading back out of the bureau.

Image Credit: Bash-a