The moment made the princess suddenly very glad that they were alone; and very glad Lysander had especially left moments before. Staring back at her friend, king,and hero of his country, and hearing him speak so frankly made her heart pound frantically in her chest. There was no mistake for that look, and the gentle tone in his voice. In a moment, her cheeks became the very same color of her hair, her surprise clear on her face.

Even now, she could hear her mother's guidance. [i]Be coy, and demure. No king wants a woman who challenges his affections...[/i]

The last part was true, but she decided that this wasn't the time for games. Instead, the princess grinned, shyly looking away.

"I had always hoped..." she began. "I mean, when we were younger, I had secretly hoped for something like this, but I thought myself too boyish...I..."

This was inadequate. She centered herself, despite the pounding in her chest, and bound herself to her next move. She gently stood up, bringing Caspian with her, and beamed up at him, face bright, albeit vulnerable.

"If his majesty will pardon my boldness," she said. "I would like that very much....and, I believe I owe you this."

Then, with little hesitation, she leaned up to him and gently kissed his warm lips, letting that exotic taste of him linger on her yet again. Her mind panicked, thinking perhaps this was too bold. But that moment in the courtyard, the way his eyes heatedly met hers...surely they were coming from the same place now?