The blush on Isabel's cheeks deepened a bit, her gaze only lifting to meet his briefly before returning to the floor, but her smile warmed, as well. She couldn't entirely believe that such a fine young man, knighted and titled, would wish to speak to the youngest daughter of a family stripped of their lands. Her heart beat like a bird's wings against the cage of her ribs. He had spoken to her. He was saintly in his kindness, or so new to court that the name wasn't familiar. With a sinking sensation, she realized she had to tell him, or else his star might fall before it could rise.<br/><br/>"The pleasure is mutual, my lord. Your notice does me great honor. Castile is my home, and I have known no other. My family remains at court, seeking patronage that we might turn our fortunes. We perhaps will not rise as high as to have Altamira returned to us, but there are other places that it might please His Majesty to grant my father." Her spine was straight throughout that little speech, but when she spoke of fortunes, her cheeks paled then flamed at the mention of her father's former title. She did not look up again, after, her hand cool and still in his as she held her breath to see if she had frightened him away, uncertain if she should wish for what she wanted or for what would undoubtedly be the best for the young lord before her.