Dinner

Hans was waiting at the bottom of the stairs and wordlessly led her into the dining room. It was as lavish as the rest if the building, set up for 20 guests or more. But today it was just set for two and Percival was sat on the far end sipping a glass of wine.

He stood, smiled and pulled out the chair next to his. "Welcome Anna, my goodness you look stunning."

Blushing despite herself at the handsome man's compliments, "Thank you Percival. This house is incredible!" She sat down next to him.

"It is isn't it! I've lived my whole life here, and now it is mine. Its too big to live here on your own though." He sighed. "As its so late I've just asked the chef to make a light snack, is that alright?"

Easing herself into the conversation, "Yeah that's fine thank you."

A side door, presumably to the kitchen opened and a servant entered with a full spread of different, cheeses cold meats fruits and bread. Anna was shocked, surely this wasn't all for them?

Seeing her surprise Percival said, "Eat what you like dear the rest will go to the servants."

And so they tucked in. The food was delicious and Anna wished that she was less tired so that she could appreciate it more. The night wore on with light conversation, good quality wine and snacking.

"What is your village like Anna?"

"Now it's probably empty but it used to be a destination on the merchant trails. We mainly weaved and sold scarves with the fiber from the local plants."

"Interesting. Can you weave?"

"I can yes but I would need a loom."

"Incredible, you'll have to show me some time."

Percival seemed genuinely interested in her but there was a clear divide between them. She didn't get most of his jokes, and he couldn't quite get it through his head that she was a homeless refugee living in the Lusty Wench tavern and not a lady of the court. Nevertheless the night wore on and Percival took her hand.

"Anna you must stay the night of course." Anna blearily smiled her response. "Shall I lead you to bed?"

Tired and tipsy though she was Anna could tell that Percival was hitting on her.

Anna figured that she had two options. She could encourage him or she could play hard to get and see how he reacts to rejection.