Her body.  So close to his.  She was moving away!  He didn’t let go as quickly as manners might dictate in such a circumstance, but Motto cared not.  She was going to be his dear Queen.  And she was exquisite.  And her dress was beautiful.  And her--  He turned away to adjust himself the moment they parted; his lower extremities being of more importance than his bleeding nose.  He was taking several cleansing breaths when a handkerchief was held out to him.<br/><br/><span style="color: #00FF40">“Thank you.” </span>He nodded to the pretty maid and did his best to let his hand fall casually over his tightened breeches.  What a time to be affected.<br/><br/><span style="font-style: italic"> "Water, please. I need some water." </span><br/><br/><span style="color: #00FF40">“Yes, and I as well.  Please.” </span>Motto grabbed hold of the balcony and whispered to himself.<span style="color: #00FF40"> “Old man.  Old man.  Old man.”</span><br/><br/>Just as Lady Genevieve’s water had been given to hear, King Motto did receive his glass.  He gulped at the same time as she, and the servants stood there beholding a charming pair of flustered nobles.<br/><br/>“Shall we get started then?”  The painter’s eyes sparkled.  He wouldn’t need to add any touches to this portrait.  It was already filled with feelings.    Motto turned and stood ready, his heart filled with renewed vigor.  His bodily dilemma was under control and he was refreshed.  And eager.<br/><br/><span style="color: #00FF40">“Indeed.  My Lady, this pose is a fine one.  It is happy and ….romantic.”</span>He cleared his throat.<span style="color: #00FF40"> “Fitting for us.  BECAUSE WE ARE TO ...be married.  And.. that is a happy occasion.  It also has ..implications..of tenderness of course.   Such things are to be expected.. certainly..and I ...want you.”  </span>He stopped flubbing his words and strode to where Her Ladyship sat (or stood).  Motto lowered himself to one knee and gently reached to take one of her little hands.<br/><br/><a class="postlink" href="https://i.imgur.com/fypd9Nu.jpg">[ img ]</a><br/><br/><span style="color: #00FF40">“I, Motto of Gilthlore..wish to have your hand in marriage, Lady Genevieve.   I...have great admiration and...feelings..desirous inclinations..”</span>A servant covered her mouth and Hector chuckled quietly.<span style="color: #00FF40">“..for you, Princess of Faldothia.  I shall not take you from your kingdom or purchase you like a mere jewel.   I would have thee as my bride.  My Lady,..will you take me?”</span><br/><br/>No one said anything and the painter sketched furiously the lines before him as his mind raced to memorize the way the sun’s light fell on Lady Genevieve's face.