Page 68 - RotalTutor

everything about him and his life. He asked her about her life and what it was like in the palace. She thought it rather dull compared to his. He traveled widely and knew almost everyone in Bernodia and far beyond. He could talk of artisans, farmers, peasants and rich men. She could only talk of what was inside the palace walls. Still, he seemed to listen with great interest. Realizing it was time to get some rest, Alexander stacked up the dishes and put the food back where it belonged. He said that was one of the deals; the cook made him promise that he would put things away. He offered his arm, and carried a lantern to guide them back through the darkened castle halls. As they walked along, her heart felt lighter than she could ever remember. Alexander was very quiet. She turned to look at him, and again that feeling that something was wrong came to her - like he was holding something back. When they reached her door, she turned to face him. She sensed a sadness in his smile, and again felt there was something he wasn’t telling her. His voice was quiet as he spoke. “Louise, I am really sorry about what I did to you.” She lowered her eyes. “I’m sorry, too, for all the mean things I’ve done to you.” She said it before she even thought about it. It was as if her heart spoke for her, but it felt good to say it. He smiled at her. “I promise I will never do anything mean to you again.” 66