"My queen," he said softly and with genuine affection in his voice, "were it not improper, I would kiss you now.  I missed your beauty and radiance in my absence from court, and so I find that even when I wish to speak to you of matters of the court, simply being in your presence makes them personal to me.  While I do have matters to discuss that are of a more professional nature, I would not say they are appropriate for the court, but for your ears alone."<br/><br/>He hoped she would understand that he wished to speak with her in private about matters that would be explosive were the wrong ears to hear them.  But then he added, "as well, I simply wished to serve you.  I know that my absence was sudden and for far too long.  But offer my services to you again in any capacity that you might require, professionally or personally."<br/><br/>He whispered then, knowing that his voice might still be heard easily enough were anyone eavesdropping magically, but unable to do anything about it.  "I know you have not officially named me as a consort, and I do not question such a decision.  I do not crave the prestige that comes along with it.  However I do crave the joy that comes with serving my queen.  So I again offer my services to you, in whatever capacity you might find useful."<br/><br/>Then resuming a more normal tone of voice, though still quiet, he added, "I will remain here as long as you need my liege, I live to serve the queen."  He smiled then and tossed her a private wink.