Chapter 33 Overwhelmed (a)

"Gonzalo, you may leave," I said, my eyes not leaving the sight of Laura.

"Are you sure, young prince?" he asked.

"There s no need to worry, Gonzalo," I smiled at him. "She s a friend of mine. Take care of the letter.

He then bowed and left me with Laura.

"Laura?" my mouth finally spoke as I approached her. "Come now, Laura. There s no need for that," I helped her up. I lifted her face and smiled at her, pleased that she s here right now. "You don t have to do curtsies when it comes to me."

"Don t be silly, Robert. You know I have to do that," she replied, fiddling with her fingers. "I m in your realm, in your kingdom. I have to show you the respect that is given to you here."

"Laura, you re no different from me. Therefore, I say that you don t have to be all ceremonial whenever you visit me here," I explained, unable to contain my grin on my face. "You ve been shaking ever since I got here. What s wrong?"