Nighthawk » Places

         xBertrandxx
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It was as good a day as any for an outing. Bertrand was no stranger to having tea outdoors, although in his experience that usually meant the back gardens. But he graciously accepted Deryn’s invitation. It was good for them to spend time together, it helped form that easy kind of intimacy that comes with close relationships, and with a wedding looming ever closer (oh, a part of Bertrand was absolutely dreading it) it couldn’t hurt.

Typically, they would have had a more suitable chaperone. While they were hardly alone with a footman, Deryn’s handmaid, and a guard present- there was always the potential for gossip, rumor, and scandal in these situations. Bertrand was certain that his father would be thrilled to hear rumors that his son had been seen alone with a woman, though he wondered what King Jannon would have to say about any sort of stain on his daughter’s honor. He wondered if the alliance they were forming was worth the rumors and reputation she would likely have to endure being wedded to him.

He supposed that, ultimately, the king wasn’t the one who would have to live with that.

It really was a beautiful day, and the grove was lovely. Perhaps some time out of the castle walls and away from talk of honor and duty would do him some good.

With so few people accompanying them, Bertrand- ever the gentleman- turned with the intention of helping Deryn from the carriage, only to see her smiling face waving joyfully as the carriage retreated into the distance.

He was stunned, and for a long moment didn’t react at all, save the dumbfounded look on his face.

“Did-” He started, slowly, as if testing the way his voice sounded in the open air, “Did she?” Bertrand had, perhaps, never felt more betrayed in his life. “Shit!”

He turned, looking all around, as if hoping to find something- anything- that looked like a solution to his current predicament. His eyes settled on Callum, formed into something of a glare, as if the man were to blame for this.

Arms crossed, and with a countenance much more befitting a spoiled toddler than a crown prince, he said, “I suppose you knew nothing of this.” His words weren’t as accusatory as the expression on his face, but his tone held all the qualities of someone who’d already found you guilty.

And yet, he knew that this was likely the only chance they’d have to truly be alone. He wasn’t sure how he was meant to feel about that, but his face and posture quickly softened. One can only remain angry at someone for something they didn’t do for so long.