She paused at the entrance to the center for a moment, content to watch him and how his face lit when he turned and saw her. Laughing, she gave him a curtsy, as if they mingled in the grand hall, before she accepted the rose— the fragrance sweet and nearly overpowering.<br/><br/>“We’re alone,” she whispered, stepping forward to cup his neck with her palm. “Might I ask for a small kiss?  A token of my appreciation for your gift.”