James observed his wife, his emerald eyes focussing on her from over his chalice; she really was an exquisite woman, especially by the dim light of the burning fire. Her hair was a shade of gold he had never seen before laying eyes on the Stanford sisters, the honey tones were not to dissimilar from the sunās rays on a summers day nor the shimmering shine of freshly spun silk and beside the fire this was only accentuating. Eleanorās visage truly mimicked that of an angel and as clichĆ© as it sounded that was truly how James felt about his wife, her porcelain skin almost the shade of freshly fallen snow and her eyes the same shade as the metallic palate of steel, truly and undoubtedly unique. Ever so was her beauty made all real by the swell of her stomach, protruding attractively beneath her dress, there had been many occasions in their marriage when James had been truly struck dumb by Eleanorās beauty, now was one of those times.
As Eleanor began to speak about Edwin, his brow knitted together at her words, ā I don't think he simply ran away, James. I think he was going somewhere in particular, to do something he had planned. He seemed hopeful about whatever it was.ā Her suspicions had furthered his confusion upon the situation, was it true, had Edwin a plan behind his disappearance? James had never considered the possibility himself, it half seemed ludicrous. What could he possibly have to do in Seabel? Why would he risk his life and that of his family, didnāt he know what damage he could cause by simply stepping foot within the country? So many questions raced through his mind as he slowly processed the information, her words were compelling to say the least and he was not one to doubt his wifeās words.
āCould it be true?ā James murmured sinking back into his chair, his visage spared from any true emotion save for confusion as his mind still raked for a plausible explanation, still none came to the forefront of his mind. His hand came to rest upon his pointed chin, rubbing the stubble flesh as if it would help him locate his brother just that little faster. In truth James was more worried for Edwin than anything else, granted should he find out that is brother had left willingly for Seabel he would probably see it as some betrayal, but ultimately just the knowledge that he was safe would have been sufficient.
Even with his gaze directed towards the dancing flames of the fire, Eleanorās sudden and sharp movements had not gone unnoticed. Her gasp had originally drawn his attention, the sudden intake of breath echoing through the room; his own green orbs had widened at Eleanorās actions, they were unnerving and worrisome for the exiled King and the moment she doubled over his own heart stopped. James was by her side within a second, falling heavily to kneeās ignoring the pain which caused through his bones, āmy love, what is it? Is it the child?ā He asked in a brisk tone, almost fearsome. Jamesā hand gently entwined with his wifeās, his slightly calloused thumb from years of sword play gently running across her knuckles. āShould I send for the physician?ā