A Poor Replacement | Thomas & Lucy
Lucy was in the garden, just as he knew she would be. How could she think of being elsewhere, he thought, when she was to waiting to have a moment alone with her betrothed? As he approached her, he could not help but wonder if, perhaps, one day, he and Aurora Churchill might secretly meet each other like this. He had to remind himself that it was unlikely that, as of yet, the princess even knew his name.
“Your Grace,” He bowed, “I’m afraid I have some rather disappointing news.” He said, stepping as close to her as he dared in case they should be seen, “Chris won’t be able to meet you, just now,” He said in a low voice, “I’m afraid the prince has sent him on an errand. He hopes you will be able to meet him here, the same time tomorrow.”
He could see that Lucy understood (he doubted that this was the first time that they had tried to have a moment alone and their plans had failed), but she looked disappointed all the same. “I’m sorry that we’ve kept you waiting,” He added, “I came as soon as I could get away.”
He offered her his arm, “I would be happy to keep you company, if you like. But I will take no offense if you send me away. I know I am a poor replacement.”