The young, dark haired boy laughed merrily as he watched his sister attempt
to push herself up off her snowy cushion. His cheeks were rosy from the
cold winter air and his cloak swayed gently in the winter wind. His
sister, who was trying to push herself up, seemed surprised, however with
her brother's laughter that soon turned into a look of agitation.
"Why did you do that Charles? Now I can't even stand up," the girl pouted and crossed her arms in front of herself as her brother beamed proudly at her, obviously proud of his accurate throwing arm. Her furry bonnet framed her young face that was now sporting a look of annoyance, as her brother Charles, dusted the remainder of snow from his hands.
"That Nicole was for telling Albert de Montigue that I enjoyed playing dollies and having tea parties." Young Charles attempted to glare at his sister Nicole. Albert was 3 years older then he was and the two of them spent a great deal of time together whenever Albert accompanied his parents and two sisters to court. However, one day he found Albert and his other close friend Martyn le Carste, snickering in the main corridor. When he asked them what was so funny, they told him that Nicole had told Alice, Albert's youngest sister, that Charles enjoyed playing tea parties and dollies. It was an innocent remark from Nicole's point of view; however, it meant that the future King of France copped some serious teasing from his two best friends afterwards. Since then, Charles was able to set the record straight; however, Nicole deserved some serious pay back. When the two of them had first arrived at the family chateau, Charles rolled up a snowball and threw it at his twin sisters back. It wasn't a hard throw, but forceful enough to disrupt her balance and send her falling onto the fresh snow. He flashed back to the current situation and was surprised to hear his sister laughing.
Nicole giggled gently at her brother's attempted glare, and flashed one of her innocent smiles. "Well," she said gently, "you do, don't you?"
Charles scrunched up his face in disgust as he stepped closer to his sister and offer her his hand. Nicole looked at the hand then up at her brother, when suddenly a wicked thought flashed in her mind. As soon as Charles' hand was secure within hers, she gave a gentle tug and pulled him face first into the fresh snow beside her. She laughed as her snow faced brother rolled himself onto his back, utterly startled by the daring manoeuvre his twin had just managed to pull.
"That, Princess was not very nice," he whispered between breaths as Nicole managed to kneel beside him. He wiped his face with his hand as his sister wiped away some of the crisp white snow that had stuck to his shirt.
"I've seen you pull that stunt on Albert millions of times, and I so very much wanted to try it myself," she giggled as she placed a warm kiss on her brothers cheek. "I see that you didn't see that one coming." Charles nodded slowly as Nicole finally managed to push herself up. She fixed her violet dress that she had picked out especially for the occasion and adjusted her matching shawl. With that, she offered her mitten-covered hand to her brother, who had not moved once.
Charles stared at the outstretched hand and then at the cheery face of his sister. "Nicole, are you not worried that I might apply that same move upon you?" Nicole's small hand remained there as she replied.
"No, I'm not really Charles. You see, mother and father's carriage have just entered the gates and I don't believe that would enjoy seeing their son, this countries future King, rolling around in the wet snow with his sister. Do you?" The little girl shrugged her shoulders and kept her hand outstretched in her brother's direction.
The young Prince contemplated this idea for a brief second then took a firm hold of his sister's hand. "Good point." Nicole pulled him gently to his feet as Nicole saw the door to the chateau open, spreading a warm light upon the two children outside. Charles fixed his black cloak as the twin's aunt, Baroness Jacqueline, stuck her head out. She smiled as she saw her nephew and niece, and the bits of snow that were noticeable all over their clothing.
"Either you two have been caught in a two minute snow storm or you have been enjoying this fresh snow and not noticed how much of it is still all over you," Jacqueline giggled as the two children looked at one another and dusted off the extra snow on their clothes, "you little rascals."
"Yes auntie, but as you and mother always say, at least no one was hurt," Charles offered his comment with an innocent smile, just as his sister had done before hand. Nicole and Jacqueline laughed as the young Prince put on his sad puppy dog look in a playful attempt to fix any trouble.
Jacqueline shook her head and wandered out to the children. She ruffled the young Prince's hair as Charles grinned wildly at her. "I can see, Charles that you are going to become a wonderful King." Charles looked at her, slightly confused. His aunt continued with a smile upon her face, "when ever trouble happens you can always make things better by pulling that little puppy dog face."
Charles laughed as soon as he began to understand the meaning of the comment, yet they were interrupted when Jacqueline's husband, Baron Laurent joined them outside. "Better enjoy it now, milord," he gestured to young Charles. "When you get older, sometimes that puppy dog face tends to change a little bit."
"Change into what, Uncle Laurent?" Nicole was enchanted by her Uncle's comical perception of life, and whenever he made a comment such as that, the Princess knew that something funny was about to happen. Laurent was never a serious person around the children, and could sometime be as childish as an 8-year-old. However, he was also the Captain of France's Royal Guard, so around leaders and adults, he could become quite the opposite of how the children saw him.
"Like this," and Laurent pulled an ugly face, causing his wife and the two children to start laughing. Nicole gripped at her sides, attempting to control her laughter as her Uncle screwed up his face once more, enticing more laughter from his audience.
When they had calmed down a little bit, Charles looked up at his Uncle with a questioning look upon his face. "I won't really look like that, will I Uncle?"
Laurent laughed at his nephew's innocent question and picked up the youngster, "no my boy, you have too much of your charming mother in you to end up like that." Laurent and Jacqueline laughed as they watched Charles let out a sigh of relief. Nicole giggled again as Charles was placed back onto the ground and rejoined her. Jacqueline was about to something more when a faint baby scream reached their ears. She heard her husband let out a pretend sigh as he realised what they had to do. She turned back to the children.
"Are you two going to come in now? It's becoming awfully chilly out here and we don't want you to catch a cold," Jacqueline wrapped her cloak around herself even tighter as a gentle breeze blew past them. Laurent dashed back inside the chateau, but not before pulling another face at the children, who waved at him giggling.
"No Aunt Jacqueline. We're going to wait for mother and father, Nicole said earlier that she saw them approaching the gate, so they are not that far away." Charles looked over at his twin, who nodded in agreement. "Also we'll wait for grandmamma and grandpapa."
Jacqueline looked around when she heard the clicking of horse hooves, not too far off in the distance and smiled back down at the children. "Alright, but remember to keep warm, alright?"
The children nodded and shot off as their aunt rushed back into the royal chateau. The four of them (five if you include Laurent and Jacqueline's baby) had arrived at the chateau 2 hours before the rest of the family. The twins had begged their parents to allow them to ride in their aunt and uncle's carriage, thinking about all the wonderful stories that their uncle would be telling about their father when the two of them grew up together. Of course, they never told their parent's about this. It was a very special time of the year for the royal family. Christmas had once again reached French shores, and the entire royal family was now embarking upon the annual trip to Paris. It was a day and a half trip, but one that was full of enjoyment and happiness for all embarking upon it.
The twins did not have to wait long for the first of the three remaining carriages to pull up in front of the chateau. The driver hopped down from his seat and opened the door for the occupants inside. Their aunts, Paulette and Louise were the first to exit, followed closely by Louise's husband Maurice and their mother's childhood best friend, Gustave. Although not being direct family members, the four were the Crowned Princess's closest friends and had practically raised her after her father passed away when she was eight years old. To the Princess, they were family. Along with their belongings, they had brought with them a variety of foods from the de Barbarac manor. The young Prince and Princess grinned at one another excitedly as they imagined all the wonderfully foods that their dear aunties would create. Nicole loved being in the kitchen, and especially loved cooking little gingerbread men and decorating them with icing afterwards. Paulette always had some gingerbread dough prepared whenever Nicole was coming to the manor. It was something that Nicole cherished doing and giving them out to everybody at the end of the day was something that everybody looked forward to. Charles, on the other hand, wasn't really into cooking, instead opting to go out with Maurice and tend to the gardens and farm animals. Although his father was teaching him how to ride, Charles felt really grown up when he and Maurice rode around the manor yards, with the young Prince riding the pony that his mother had saved. The old mare was having trouble trying to deliver the foal, and when she eventually passed away, a young girl had been there to feed and care for the baby horse. Charles was able build fences and before the winter had arrived, he had even constructed a bird house for an old tree on the property all by himself. He wasn't able to get his hands dirty at the palace, so the manor, where the royal family visited twice a week, was a special retreat.
"Oh there they are, our little darlings," Paulette cooed as she wandered up to the children, the others in close pursuit. The twins giggled as their aunts devoured them with hugs and kisses and gave each of them a honey lolly. Gustave helped the driver bring in some of the luggage and eventually the four of them had retreated to the chateau, unable to stand the wintry night air.
Soon after, the second carriage rolled up in front of the two children, containing the twin's beloved grandparents. Although their mother wasn't too fond of the idea, the King and Queen spoilt their grandchildren shamelessly. They would buy the twins gifts and cancel all their important appointments for the day just to spend time with them. Also within the carriage was the great artist and tutor, Leonardo da Vinci. While exiting the carriage the three seemed to be engaged in a rather deep conversation, however when they saw the two children, it was soon abandoned.
"Grandmamma! Grandpapa! Leonardo! You are finally here!" The twins cried out in excitement. They ran up to their grandparents, abandoning all royal protocol that they were supposed to be learning and greeted their loved ones. The King and Queen's faces immediately lit up as soon as they saw their little angels. Leonardo dashed to the young Prince and Princess engulfing them in a big bear hug.
"It is good to see you two. How are you both?" Leonardo stood back up, smiling gently at his two pupils and young companions. The three embarked on many little adventures around the palace, many of which left Leonardo answering to the King. However, the twins were like a breath of fresh air for the old artist, who Prince Henry said, was a child in old mans clothing.
"Very good, Leonardo," Charles chirped happily as Nicole giggled, obviously being tickled by the old mans beard. They had overheard their father tell their mother that Leonardo only trimmed his beard once every blue moon. When told of this, Leonardo gave one of his hearty laughs and replied that his beard only makes him look cuddlier, and offered camouflage whenever he was chasing after the young female courtiers in King Francis' court.
"That's good to hear, you two. My goodness, it is quite cold out here, I think that I might head inside," Leonardo released the two children from his embrace and looked up at the sky, as if to predict an oncoming storm. The moon was particularly bright this evening, and it gave an unusual light to the world below.
"Sir, where would you like this luggage placed?" One of the footmen stepped up behind Leonardo, carrying his easel and painting equipment.
"Oh, follow me my boy. I am heading inside, so I can show you where to place it. And would you please be careful with that easel? If you break it, you will have to build me a new one," the young footman nodded his head rapidly as Leonardo gave him a deep stare. The old artist darted off in the direction of the cosy chateau, with the young footman, who was juggling the entire luggage, in close pursuit.
"Oh dear, the poor boy looked terrified. I must tell Leonardo to take it easier on him, after all, it is his first trip with us," the twins once again spun around and found their grandparents standing behind them. Queen Marie stood shaking her head in defeat as they listened to old Leonardo order the boy around with his luggage.
"No, no. Not over there, place the easel over there. Not there boy, on the other side of the stairs," the group could hear the old artist yelling at the young man, who, by the amount of yelling coming from the chateau, must have been absolutely terrified.
"Oh well," the Queen tried to block out the events from the chateau by turning to her grandchildren, "and how about you two? I hope you haven't been causing any trouble." The young Prince and Princess smiled wildly at one another and then dashed into their grandmothers waiting embrace. "Hello my little darlings," she whispered gently as she kissed them both on the forehead. Her husband, who was once a serious and firm man when it came to his family, joined his wife with the giving and receiving of hugs. The King looked down at his grandchildren, and his gaze stopped at his grandson. Charles looked so much like his father, sometimes Francis felt as though he was looking down at his own son at that age. However, unlike his father, Charles was brought up with a different approach. Henry was only a baby when Francis ascended to France's throne, and therefore he had little time to spend with his infant son. Prince Henry therefore grew idle and bored, and took pleasure in abusing his privileges. He caused mischief and was a little terror, anxious to receive any kind of attention he could, from anyone. Francis sometimes regretted leaving his only child out of his life, but agreed that had things been different, Henry might not have met Danielle, who would change him into a wonderful man, and his perspective of life, love and the crown. His grandchildren, Charles and Nicole, where brought up purely by their parents hands. No nannies or carers were involved in the twin's upbringing, only family and friends. Henry and Danielle spent as much time as they could, when they were not dealing with royal affairs, with the children. Henry taught them both how to ride and was currently teaching Charles the fine art of archery, while Danielle took the children out on nature walks, where she taught them the names of animals and plants and introduced them to all sorts of different people. Along with the schooling that Leonardo was giving to the children 3 days a week, where they learnt science, English, history, mathematics and the arts through practical lessons, the twins where able to experience all sorts of different things. Painting, building and even learning musical instruments allowed them to embrace their talents and enhance their enthusiasm for life.
King Francis picked up his delicate granddaughter and ruffled his grandson's unruly dark hair. "My boy, your hair's as unmanageable as your fathers." Francis chuckled to himself as Charles playful tried to swat away his hand. The four laughed as Charles hugged his grandfather once more.
"Did you miss us, Grandpapa?" Little Nicole asked her grandfather as the four had settled down. "We went really fast in auntie and uncle carriage and we even passed a circus on the way." Nicole giggled as she remembered the old circus cart stuck on the side of the road. One of the wheels had managed to fall off, and the members of the circus were signalling to passes by. The children begged their aunt and uncle to stop and help them, and eventually, Laurent asked the driver to turn back. While Nicole and Charles were being entertained by the ring masters monkey, Laurent and a couple of guardsmen and circus workers help put the wheel back on and secure it. In less then an hour, both carriages where back on the rode, heading in separate directions.
"That's wonderful sweetheart. However, speaking of your aunt and uncle, where are they?" King Francis looked around in hope of finding his daughter-in-laws sister and her husband.
"They're inside, grandfather. They were trying to put baby Michelle to sleep last time I heard," Charles answered the King's question, as he watched his sister snuggle into their grandfather's warm embrace.
"Are they alright? Did they have a nice trip up?" Queen Marie asked as she directed the footmen in the direction of the chateau door. Charles wore an innocent smile as he replied.
"Yes, they are fine, however aunt Jacqueline tried to feed the baby while we were in the carriage and the result was not a very good one," Charles looked up at his sister who was remembering the incident on the way up. "We were about a mile from the town of Sens, when Michelle became hungry. Aunt decided to feed the baby, however she did not realise that feeding and bumpy roads do not mix."
Francis and Marie looked at one another in worry as Nicole and Charles shared a smile. Nicole continued the story, "it is alright, grandpapa. Do not worry, for the only uncle Laurent's shirt ended up suffering, nothing more. All are in good health and are most probably inside helping Aunt Louise prepare supper."
"Well," the Queen stated after a brief period of silence, "at least they are alright." For a brief second, the Queen was worried about the health of her baby goddaughter, who had only recently celebrated her first birthday.
The four of them turned around as they heard the third and final carriage pull up to the entrance. Nicole remained within her grandfather's arms, helping to keep them both warm in the wintry air, while her brother stood in front of his grandmother, the Queen's hands placed on his young shoulders. They smiled as the footman jumped down from his post and opened the carriage door.
The first to exit the carriage was Prince Henry, the Crowned Prince of France and father to Charles and Nicole. His dark cloak ruffled in the wintry breeze as he tried to get used to the chilliness of the night. He smiled and waved gently when he saw his children and parents waiting for them, but then turned back to the carriage when he heard someone calling him. He held out his large hand, as a smaller, mitten-covered hand placed itself within his. Princess Danielle was the second to exit the dimly lit carriage. The crisp snow crunched under her feet as the beautiful Princess rejoined her husband. She glanced around the familiar surroundings, and shivered as a cold breeze blew past. Her husband, who was holding her hand, felt her shiver and as quick as lightning removed his cloak and wrapped it around his wife and the children she was carrying. The Princess was four months pregnant with her fourth child and was only now beginning to show. While everyone was thinking that it would be another Prince for the royal house, the Princess had a gut feeling that her next child was going to be a little sister for Nicole to dot upon. Nicole had her hopes up that it was going to be a girl, and every night before going to sleep, prayed for a little sister to play dress ups with and tell secrets to. Within the Danielle's arms, slept little Philippe, the Prince and Princess's second born son. A bubbly child, Philippe was a little rascal and enjoyed running around for people to chase him. He once even took off with his grandfather's royal sceptre, and it was only found when Danielle sat down upon it in the palace library. Overall, he was too much like his father, when Henry was a boy. However, he was a lovable character, and had the ability to make anyone laugh with his gorgeous little antics and cute smile.
Nicole and Charles quickly dashed over to their father, excited to see their mother and father and filled with little stories to tell them. Henry swept his two children up into his strong embrace, and the three of them laughed happily.
"Hello papa," Nicole exclaimed happily as her father gave her and her brother a warm kiss upon the cheek.
"Hello Princess. Hello Charles," the young Prince smiled widely as his father acknowledged him in a regal tone, making him feel grown up and respected in an adult manner. "How was your trip?"
Nicole and Charles looked at one another then over at their grandparents, who smiled cheekily at them. At that moment, the four of them erupted into laughter, with Prince Henry looking on in confusion. "What is it?" Henry looked bewildered as he glanced over at his pregnant wife for some answers. His confusion increased as Danielle simply shrugged her shoulders, and went back to keeping Philippe warm.
"Don't worry Henry, we'll tell you the story inside," the King finally answered as everybody settled down. Henry released his children from his grasp as they dashed over to their mother to give her a kiss and a hug. Francis watched as his wife walked over to the Princess and inquired about their trip. "I see that Philippe didn't last very long," Francis whispered to his son as he watched Marie caress his tiny grandson's cheek. Like Charles, Philippe bore an uncanny resemblance to his father.
"No," Henry replied gently, "he practically slept the entire way." The Prince watched as his mother lifted his sleeping son from his wives arms. Danielle wrapped a blanket around the young Prince, to keep him warm. He stirred gently, but drifted off again as his grandmother cradled him and hummed a slow tune in his ear.
Henry watched his young family with a silent pride. Danielle. She was his wife, best friend, guide, lover and the mother of his beautiful children. She was his everything. Her outer beauty was great; however her inner beauty was immeasurable. Nothing and no one could possibly compare to her and what love and compassion she held within. Once a servant in her own home, the two of them fell for each other through a pure act of fate. Danielle's stepmother, the ex-baroness Rodmilla de Ghent, had sold the servant Maurice to pay off her taxes. Danielle, through her courageous and compassionate heart, sacrificed her life to rescue him; in the processes, telling off an arrogant Prince. After that, they kept on meeting, sometime in the most unusual ways. However, he came very close to losing her after the masquerade ball. It was during that period of time before he attempted to rescue her, that he was forced to think about his life. Danielle showed him that being King gave him the opportunity to change his life and the lives of others around him; that looks can not tell you what a person is like and that beauty can be indecisive, that stature is not important when it comes to matters of the heart and that life is purely for living. However, the most important lesson of all was she taught him what true love was and that it shouldn't be left to fate. After, their marriage she had blessed him with a family; two beautiful children within their second year and a son in their fourth. They were perfect in his eyes - nothing could change that.
Charles Henry Francis, his first son. From the moment Henry was born, it was expected of him to not only become King and rule the country in the future, but also to father an heir. From the first moment Henry held his son; emotions he never knew existed were brought to life. Charles was a splitting image of his father, and as the years went by that became more and more obvious. Born with his father's dark brown hair, stormy grey eyes and even his roguish smile, Charles was destined to become a little heartbreaker in his future years. But he was also a smart boy; interested in history and how things worked, Charles loved going out and getting his hands dirty. He even built his own tree house where he could hide out whenever he was in trouble. Charles wanted to spend as much time as he could with the Prince, who at times could get caught up in royal matters which could send him away from home. He spent many hours with his father; listening to his stories around the dinner table, accompanying him on hunting trips and even attempting to read the same books as Henry. Together, they were a perfect match.
Then there was Nicole, his little angel. Henry was surprised when he heard two baby cries the morning Danielle had gone into labour. He had been blessed with a son and a gorgeous little daughter, Nicole Paulette Marie. He spent hours marvelling at how small her hands were and how cute her smile was. A dream, that was the only way to describe how he felt. A perfect replica of her mother, Nicole was the definition of adorable. With sky blue eyes, rosy cheeks and chestnut coloured hair which cascaded in ringlets, she was daddy's little Princess. Henry dotted on her shamelessly, and looked out for her like only a father can. The young Princess spent a great deal of her time playing with the young girls at court and painting with Gustave, who was always telling him what a little artist she was. She was like a mother to her little brother, and at times it looked as though Charles respected her like a mother as well, although he would never admit it. She was a born romantic, as Leonardo put it. She loved listening to stories of Princes and their ladies and romantic fairytales. Henry had even had men of the court come up to him, offering their sons as a future husband to his little girl. But the Prince would have none of it, opting to let Nicole chose, preferring that she didn't make that decision just yet.
Finally, there was little Philippe. The trouble maker of the lot, Philippe prided himself on getting into some sort of trouble and making others save him because he couldn't get out of it. Danielle had completely caught him off guard when she told him she was expecting their third child. It was Christmas Eve and the twins had just turned two. But, as with all of his children, it was a beautiful and rewarding moment his son, Philippe Edward Marcus entered the world. At first, everyone thought that Philippe was going to look like his mother; born with dark blue eyes and a light patch of brown hair. However, he soon grew out of that, when his hair began to darken and his features strengthen to look more like Henry's. But with his spirited attitude, it seemed like hardly anyone could get him to settle down. All accept his grandmother. Marie had a special way with her youngest grandson that could not be explained, but they were grateful for. However, he was a little darling and everybody knew it.
And now, Danielle was pregnant again with another child. Boy or girl; Henry didn't know, but he secretly hoped for another daughter. He would never tell Danielle that, the two always had a competitive streak between them, and it was always fun to see who won.
"Henry...Henry," the Prince was brought out of his thoughts by his wife. "Are you coming in?" When he finally looked at her, Danielle smiled and held out her mitten covered hand. "Sweetheart, come inside. It's absolutely freezing out here."
The Prince smiled warmly at his wife and took her offered hand. He hadn't known true peace until she came into his life. He loved her more then life itself and was willing to sacrifice anything to keep her happy. "Have I told you lately how much I love you?" Henry asked as the two of them walked through the crisp snow in the direction of the chateau.
"Why yes milord, you have. However, if you wish to tell me again, you may do so..." Henry was about to accept his Princesses invitation but was stopped suddenly when she placed a gentle finger to his lips, silencing him, "...only when we are inside though."
Danielle chuckled at her husband's disappointment. She loved no one with the kind of passion and commitment that she had for Henry. He was perfection in everyway in her eyes. He was a wonderful husband, a dedicated father, a regal and passionate leader and a trustworthy friend. He was certainly one of a kind, totally irreplaceable.
"But darling that's unfair," the Princess heard her husband mutter, "I wish to tell you now."
The Princess looked back at her husband, and was surprised to finding him pouting. It was the same look that Charles sported whenever he didn't get his way; at least she knew where he got it from. Sometimes she couldn't believe that this man before her was the next King of France; he could be so childish at times. However, Henry's pout was short lived, for as soon as he and his wife locked eyes, they burst out into laughter. This was another trait that Henry loved about his wife. Her sense of humour was witty and intelligent as well as being comical. The royal court had been able to witness some rather memorable outbursts by the Crowned Princess, some of which had the entire court laughing.
"Henry," Danielle said through bouts of laughter, "grow up, will you!" They laughed at her remark, but soon the Prince of France held a playful spark in his eye.
"That Milady is no way to speak to your Prince. I think you need to run rather fast if you are to escape the punishment I have in mind for you," Henry had a playful smirk upon his face, which Danielle returned playfully. "I think that somebodies in a little bit of trouble with her husband."
"Oh Henry," Danielle looked over at her husband innocently, "you wouldn't really force a pregnant woman; your pregnant wife, no less, to run. Would you? That could be awfully dangerous Milord, what would Mother and Father say about this?"
The Prince thought carefully for a second then returned his intense gaze to his wife. "But sweetheart, you must remember that you were climbing trees and riding horses during your first pregnancy. And may I remind you that you were pregnant with twins at the time?"
"Yes I remember, my sweet husband," Danielle tried quickly to think of a comeback that would end all of this so that she could go back inside and snuggles up beside the fire. "But you must remember that I am not as young as I used to be and have had to carry 3 babies Milord. It doesn't do the body any good. What would you do if something were to happen to us?" The Princess rubbed her belly while looking thoughtfully at her husband.
"Yes, I would have to raise those little rugrats of yours, Milady. Think of all the grey hairs," Henry rubbed his chin, while thinking out loud, just so Danielle could hear him.
"Those rugrats, Milord, are our children and may I say that our son's act more like their father everyday then their mother," Danielle countered her husband's comment.
"What darling, more handsome, charming and completely loveable, just like their father?" Henry smirked as he watched his wife, who was shaking her head in disagreement.
"No Milord, if I think of it from that perspective, I guess they really do take more after their mother then you," the Princess sighed gently at her husband who sent her a cheeky glare. "Oh I must certainly have a good influence on our children, Henry."
"Who knows, my love? However, if the boys take after you, then most certainly Nicole must take after her father," Henry smiled confidently when he mentioned his five year old daughter.
"What, I've never noticed a single chest hair on my daughter! Milord, is there something you are not telling me?" Danielle snickered as her husband looked at her shocked, but then playfully upset. "No Henry, she is much too sweet to take after you."
Again, the Prince put on his little pout as his wife walked over to hug him. "Well perhaps there is a little bit of you in our children. I have seen both of our boys sporting that little pout every so often. Perchance, Milord, they got that from you?"
Henry playfully pretended to think about it for a minute then smiled, "agreed, Milady." He then stuck out his hand, which Danielle grabbed and shook forcefully. He gently pulled her small body into his own and enveloped her in his strong, warm embrace and placed a soft kiss upon her lips. Danielle wrapped her arms around her husband's neck as she slowly deepened the kiss. However, they soon felt the lack of air calling for them and released one another from the embrace. Henry was the first to speak as he lowered his forehead to his wives.
"However Milady, this does not excuse you from telling your husband to grow up!"
"Why did you do that Charles? Now I can't even stand up," the girl pouted and crossed her arms in front of herself as her brother beamed proudly at her, obviously proud of his accurate throwing arm. Her furry bonnet framed her young face that was now sporting a look of annoyance, as her brother Charles, dusted the remainder of snow from his hands.
"That Nicole was for telling Albert de Montigue that I enjoyed playing dollies and having tea parties." Young Charles attempted to glare at his sister Nicole. Albert was 3 years older then he was and the two of them spent a great deal of time together whenever Albert accompanied his parents and two sisters to court. However, one day he found Albert and his other close friend Martyn le Carste, snickering in the main corridor. When he asked them what was so funny, they told him that Nicole had told Alice, Albert's youngest sister, that Charles enjoyed playing tea parties and dollies. It was an innocent remark from Nicole's point of view; however, it meant that the future King of France copped some serious teasing from his two best friends afterwards. Since then, Charles was able to set the record straight; however, Nicole deserved some serious pay back. When the two of them had first arrived at the family chateau, Charles rolled up a snowball and threw it at his twin sisters back. It wasn't a hard throw, but forceful enough to disrupt her balance and send her falling onto the fresh snow. He flashed back to the current situation and was surprised to hear his sister laughing.
Nicole giggled gently at her brother's attempted glare, and flashed one of her innocent smiles. "Well," she said gently, "you do, don't you?"
Charles scrunched up his face in disgust as he stepped closer to his sister and offer her his hand. Nicole looked at the hand then up at her brother, when suddenly a wicked thought flashed in her mind. As soon as Charles' hand was secure within hers, she gave a gentle tug and pulled him face first into the fresh snow beside her. She laughed as her snow faced brother rolled himself onto his back, utterly startled by the daring manoeuvre his twin had just managed to pull.
"That, Princess was not very nice," he whispered between breaths as Nicole managed to kneel beside him. He wiped his face with his hand as his sister wiped away some of the crisp white snow that had stuck to his shirt.
"I've seen you pull that stunt on Albert millions of times, and I so very much wanted to try it myself," she giggled as she placed a warm kiss on her brothers cheek. "I see that you didn't see that one coming." Charles nodded slowly as Nicole finally managed to push herself up. She fixed her violet dress that she had picked out especially for the occasion and adjusted her matching shawl. With that, she offered her mitten-covered hand to her brother, who had not moved once.
Charles stared at the outstretched hand and then at the cheery face of his sister. "Nicole, are you not worried that I might apply that same move upon you?" Nicole's small hand remained there as she replied.
"No, I'm not really Charles. You see, mother and father's carriage have just entered the gates and I don't believe that would enjoy seeing their son, this countries future King, rolling around in the wet snow with his sister. Do you?" The little girl shrugged her shoulders and kept her hand outstretched in her brother's direction.
The young Prince contemplated this idea for a brief second then took a firm hold of his sister's hand. "Good point." Nicole pulled him gently to his feet as Nicole saw the door to the chateau open, spreading a warm light upon the two children outside. Charles fixed his black cloak as the twin's aunt, Baroness Jacqueline, stuck her head out. She smiled as she saw her nephew and niece, and the bits of snow that were noticeable all over their clothing.
"Either you two have been caught in a two minute snow storm or you have been enjoying this fresh snow and not noticed how much of it is still all over you," Jacqueline giggled as the two children looked at one another and dusted off the extra snow on their clothes, "you little rascals."
"Yes auntie, but as you and mother always say, at least no one was hurt," Charles offered his comment with an innocent smile, just as his sister had done before hand. Nicole and Jacqueline laughed as the young Prince put on his sad puppy dog look in a playful attempt to fix any trouble.
Jacqueline shook her head and wandered out to the children. She ruffled the young Prince's hair as Charles grinned wildly at her. "I can see, Charles that you are going to become a wonderful King." Charles looked at her, slightly confused. His aunt continued with a smile upon her face, "when ever trouble happens you can always make things better by pulling that little puppy dog face."
Charles laughed as soon as he began to understand the meaning of the comment, yet they were interrupted when Jacqueline's husband, Baron Laurent joined them outside. "Better enjoy it now, milord," he gestured to young Charles. "When you get older, sometimes that puppy dog face tends to change a little bit."
"Change into what, Uncle Laurent?" Nicole was enchanted by her Uncle's comical perception of life, and whenever he made a comment such as that, the Princess knew that something funny was about to happen. Laurent was never a serious person around the children, and could sometime be as childish as an 8-year-old. However, he was also the Captain of France's Royal Guard, so around leaders and adults, he could become quite the opposite of how the children saw him.
"Like this," and Laurent pulled an ugly face, causing his wife and the two children to start laughing. Nicole gripped at her sides, attempting to control her laughter as her Uncle screwed up his face once more, enticing more laughter from his audience.
When they had calmed down a little bit, Charles looked up at his Uncle with a questioning look upon his face. "I won't really look like that, will I Uncle?"
Laurent laughed at his nephew's innocent question and picked up the youngster, "no my boy, you have too much of your charming mother in you to end up like that." Laurent and Jacqueline laughed as they watched Charles let out a sigh of relief. Nicole giggled again as Charles was placed back onto the ground and rejoined her. Jacqueline was about to something more when a faint baby scream reached their ears. She heard her husband let out a pretend sigh as he realised what they had to do. She turned back to the children.
"Are you two going to come in now? It's becoming awfully chilly out here and we don't want you to catch a cold," Jacqueline wrapped her cloak around herself even tighter as a gentle breeze blew past them. Laurent dashed back inside the chateau, but not before pulling another face at the children, who waved at him giggling.
"No Aunt Jacqueline. We're going to wait for mother and father, Nicole said earlier that she saw them approaching the gate, so they are not that far away." Charles looked over at his twin, who nodded in agreement. "Also we'll wait for grandmamma and grandpapa."
Jacqueline looked around when she heard the clicking of horse hooves, not too far off in the distance and smiled back down at the children. "Alright, but remember to keep warm, alright?"
The children nodded and shot off as their aunt rushed back into the royal chateau. The four of them (five if you include Laurent and Jacqueline's baby) had arrived at the chateau 2 hours before the rest of the family. The twins had begged their parents to allow them to ride in their aunt and uncle's carriage, thinking about all the wonderful stories that their uncle would be telling about their father when the two of them grew up together. Of course, they never told their parent's about this. It was a very special time of the year for the royal family. Christmas had once again reached French shores, and the entire royal family was now embarking upon the annual trip to Paris. It was a day and a half trip, but one that was full of enjoyment and happiness for all embarking upon it.
The twins did not have to wait long for the first of the three remaining carriages to pull up in front of the chateau. The driver hopped down from his seat and opened the door for the occupants inside. Their aunts, Paulette and Louise were the first to exit, followed closely by Louise's husband Maurice and their mother's childhood best friend, Gustave. Although not being direct family members, the four were the Crowned Princess's closest friends and had practically raised her after her father passed away when she was eight years old. To the Princess, they were family. Along with their belongings, they had brought with them a variety of foods from the de Barbarac manor. The young Prince and Princess grinned at one another excitedly as they imagined all the wonderfully foods that their dear aunties would create. Nicole loved being in the kitchen, and especially loved cooking little gingerbread men and decorating them with icing afterwards. Paulette always had some gingerbread dough prepared whenever Nicole was coming to the manor. It was something that Nicole cherished doing and giving them out to everybody at the end of the day was something that everybody looked forward to. Charles, on the other hand, wasn't really into cooking, instead opting to go out with Maurice and tend to the gardens and farm animals. Although his father was teaching him how to ride, Charles felt really grown up when he and Maurice rode around the manor yards, with the young Prince riding the pony that his mother had saved. The old mare was having trouble trying to deliver the foal, and when she eventually passed away, a young girl had been there to feed and care for the baby horse. Charles was able build fences and before the winter had arrived, he had even constructed a bird house for an old tree on the property all by himself. He wasn't able to get his hands dirty at the palace, so the manor, where the royal family visited twice a week, was a special retreat.
"Oh there they are, our little darlings," Paulette cooed as she wandered up to the children, the others in close pursuit. The twins giggled as their aunts devoured them with hugs and kisses and gave each of them a honey lolly. Gustave helped the driver bring in some of the luggage and eventually the four of them had retreated to the chateau, unable to stand the wintry night air.
Soon after, the second carriage rolled up in front of the two children, containing the twin's beloved grandparents. Although their mother wasn't too fond of the idea, the King and Queen spoilt their grandchildren shamelessly. They would buy the twins gifts and cancel all their important appointments for the day just to spend time with them. Also within the carriage was the great artist and tutor, Leonardo da Vinci. While exiting the carriage the three seemed to be engaged in a rather deep conversation, however when they saw the two children, it was soon abandoned.
"Grandmamma! Grandpapa! Leonardo! You are finally here!" The twins cried out in excitement. They ran up to their grandparents, abandoning all royal protocol that they were supposed to be learning and greeted their loved ones. The King and Queen's faces immediately lit up as soon as they saw their little angels. Leonardo dashed to the young Prince and Princess engulfing them in a big bear hug.
"It is good to see you two. How are you both?" Leonardo stood back up, smiling gently at his two pupils and young companions. The three embarked on many little adventures around the palace, many of which left Leonardo answering to the King. However, the twins were like a breath of fresh air for the old artist, who Prince Henry said, was a child in old mans clothing.
"Very good, Leonardo," Charles chirped happily as Nicole giggled, obviously being tickled by the old mans beard. They had overheard their father tell their mother that Leonardo only trimmed his beard once every blue moon. When told of this, Leonardo gave one of his hearty laughs and replied that his beard only makes him look cuddlier, and offered camouflage whenever he was chasing after the young female courtiers in King Francis' court.
"That's good to hear, you two. My goodness, it is quite cold out here, I think that I might head inside," Leonardo released the two children from his embrace and looked up at the sky, as if to predict an oncoming storm. The moon was particularly bright this evening, and it gave an unusual light to the world below.
"Sir, where would you like this luggage placed?" One of the footmen stepped up behind Leonardo, carrying his easel and painting equipment.
"Oh, follow me my boy. I am heading inside, so I can show you where to place it. And would you please be careful with that easel? If you break it, you will have to build me a new one," the young footman nodded his head rapidly as Leonardo gave him a deep stare. The old artist darted off in the direction of the cosy chateau, with the young footman, who was juggling the entire luggage, in close pursuit.
"Oh dear, the poor boy looked terrified. I must tell Leonardo to take it easier on him, after all, it is his first trip with us," the twins once again spun around and found their grandparents standing behind them. Queen Marie stood shaking her head in defeat as they listened to old Leonardo order the boy around with his luggage.
"No, no. Not over there, place the easel over there. Not there boy, on the other side of the stairs," the group could hear the old artist yelling at the young man, who, by the amount of yelling coming from the chateau, must have been absolutely terrified.
"Oh well," the Queen tried to block out the events from the chateau by turning to her grandchildren, "and how about you two? I hope you haven't been causing any trouble." The young Prince and Princess smiled wildly at one another and then dashed into their grandmothers waiting embrace. "Hello my little darlings," she whispered gently as she kissed them both on the forehead. Her husband, who was once a serious and firm man when it came to his family, joined his wife with the giving and receiving of hugs. The King looked down at his grandchildren, and his gaze stopped at his grandson. Charles looked so much like his father, sometimes Francis felt as though he was looking down at his own son at that age. However, unlike his father, Charles was brought up with a different approach. Henry was only a baby when Francis ascended to France's throne, and therefore he had little time to spend with his infant son. Prince Henry therefore grew idle and bored, and took pleasure in abusing his privileges. He caused mischief and was a little terror, anxious to receive any kind of attention he could, from anyone. Francis sometimes regretted leaving his only child out of his life, but agreed that had things been different, Henry might not have met Danielle, who would change him into a wonderful man, and his perspective of life, love and the crown. His grandchildren, Charles and Nicole, where brought up purely by their parents hands. No nannies or carers were involved in the twin's upbringing, only family and friends. Henry and Danielle spent as much time as they could, when they were not dealing with royal affairs, with the children. Henry taught them both how to ride and was currently teaching Charles the fine art of archery, while Danielle took the children out on nature walks, where she taught them the names of animals and plants and introduced them to all sorts of different people. Along with the schooling that Leonardo was giving to the children 3 days a week, where they learnt science, English, history, mathematics and the arts through practical lessons, the twins where able to experience all sorts of different things. Painting, building and even learning musical instruments allowed them to embrace their talents and enhance their enthusiasm for life.
King Francis picked up his delicate granddaughter and ruffled his grandson's unruly dark hair. "My boy, your hair's as unmanageable as your fathers." Francis chuckled to himself as Charles playful tried to swat away his hand. The four laughed as Charles hugged his grandfather once more.
"Did you miss us, Grandpapa?" Little Nicole asked her grandfather as the four had settled down. "We went really fast in auntie and uncle carriage and we even passed a circus on the way." Nicole giggled as she remembered the old circus cart stuck on the side of the road. One of the wheels had managed to fall off, and the members of the circus were signalling to passes by. The children begged their aunt and uncle to stop and help them, and eventually, Laurent asked the driver to turn back. While Nicole and Charles were being entertained by the ring masters monkey, Laurent and a couple of guardsmen and circus workers help put the wheel back on and secure it. In less then an hour, both carriages where back on the rode, heading in separate directions.
"That's wonderful sweetheart. However, speaking of your aunt and uncle, where are they?" King Francis looked around in hope of finding his daughter-in-laws sister and her husband.
"They're inside, grandfather. They were trying to put baby Michelle to sleep last time I heard," Charles answered the King's question, as he watched his sister snuggle into their grandfather's warm embrace.
"Are they alright? Did they have a nice trip up?" Queen Marie asked as she directed the footmen in the direction of the chateau door. Charles wore an innocent smile as he replied.
"Yes, they are fine, however aunt Jacqueline tried to feed the baby while we were in the carriage and the result was not a very good one," Charles looked up at his sister who was remembering the incident on the way up. "We were about a mile from the town of Sens, when Michelle became hungry. Aunt decided to feed the baby, however she did not realise that feeding and bumpy roads do not mix."
Francis and Marie looked at one another in worry as Nicole and Charles shared a smile. Nicole continued the story, "it is alright, grandpapa. Do not worry, for the only uncle Laurent's shirt ended up suffering, nothing more. All are in good health and are most probably inside helping Aunt Louise prepare supper."
"Well," the Queen stated after a brief period of silence, "at least they are alright." For a brief second, the Queen was worried about the health of her baby goddaughter, who had only recently celebrated her first birthday.
The four of them turned around as they heard the third and final carriage pull up to the entrance. Nicole remained within her grandfather's arms, helping to keep them both warm in the wintry air, while her brother stood in front of his grandmother, the Queen's hands placed on his young shoulders. They smiled as the footman jumped down from his post and opened the carriage door.
The first to exit the carriage was Prince Henry, the Crowned Prince of France and father to Charles and Nicole. His dark cloak ruffled in the wintry breeze as he tried to get used to the chilliness of the night. He smiled and waved gently when he saw his children and parents waiting for them, but then turned back to the carriage when he heard someone calling him. He held out his large hand, as a smaller, mitten-covered hand placed itself within his. Princess Danielle was the second to exit the dimly lit carriage. The crisp snow crunched under her feet as the beautiful Princess rejoined her husband. She glanced around the familiar surroundings, and shivered as a cold breeze blew past. Her husband, who was holding her hand, felt her shiver and as quick as lightning removed his cloak and wrapped it around his wife and the children she was carrying. The Princess was four months pregnant with her fourth child and was only now beginning to show. While everyone was thinking that it would be another Prince for the royal house, the Princess had a gut feeling that her next child was going to be a little sister for Nicole to dot upon. Nicole had her hopes up that it was going to be a girl, and every night before going to sleep, prayed for a little sister to play dress ups with and tell secrets to. Within the Danielle's arms, slept little Philippe, the Prince and Princess's second born son. A bubbly child, Philippe was a little rascal and enjoyed running around for people to chase him. He once even took off with his grandfather's royal sceptre, and it was only found when Danielle sat down upon it in the palace library. Overall, he was too much like his father, when Henry was a boy. However, he was a lovable character, and had the ability to make anyone laugh with his gorgeous little antics and cute smile.
Nicole and Charles quickly dashed over to their father, excited to see their mother and father and filled with little stories to tell them. Henry swept his two children up into his strong embrace, and the three of them laughed happily.
"Hello papa," Nicole exclaimed happily as her father gave her and her brother a warm kiss upon the cheek.
"Hello Princess. Hello Charles," the young Prince smiled widely as his father acknowledged him in a regal tone, making him feel grown up and respected in an adult manner. "How was your trip?"
Nicole and Charles looked at one another then over at their grandparents, who smiled cheekily at them. At that moment, the four of them erupted into laughter, with Prince Henry looking on in confusion. "What is it?" Henry looked bewildered as he glanced over at his pregnant wife for some answers. His confusion increased as Danielle simply shrugged her shoulders, and went back to keeping Philippe warm.
"Don't worry Henry, we'll tell you the story inside," the King finally answered as everybody settled down. Henry released his children from his grasp as they dashed over to their mother to give her a kiss and a hug. Francis watched as his wife walked over to the Princess and inquired about their trip. "I see that Philippe didn't last very long," Francis whispered to his son as he watched Marie caress his tiny grandson's cheek. Like Charles, Philippe bore an uncanny resemblance to his father.
"No," Henry replied gently, "he practically slept the entire way." The Prince watched as his mother lifted his sleeping son from his wives arms. Danielle wrapped a blanket around the young Prince, to keep him warm. He stirred gently, but drifted off again as his grandmother cradled him and hummed a slow tune in his ear.
Henry watched his young family with a silent pride. Danielle. She was his wife, best friend, guide, lover and the mother of his beautiful children. She was his everything. Her outer beauty was great; however her inner beauty was immeasurable. Nothing and no one could possibly compare to her and what love and compassion she held within. Once a servant in her own home, the two of them fell for each other through a pure act of fate. Danielle's stepmother, the ex-baroness Rodmilla de Ghent, had sold the servant Maurice to pay off her taxes. Danielle, through her courageous and compassionate heart, sacrificed her life to rescue him; in the processes, telling off an arrogant Prince. After that, they kept on meeting, sometime in the most unusual ways. However, he came very close to losing her after the masquerade ball. It was during that period of time before he attempted to rescue her, that he was forced to think about his life. Danielle showed him that being King gave him the opportunity to change his life and the lives of others around him; that looks can not tell you what a person is like and that beauty can be indecisive, that stature is not important when it comes to matters of the heart and that life is purely for living. However, the most important lesson of all was she taught him what true love was and that it shouldn't be left to fate. After, their marriage she had blessed him with a family; two beautiful children within their second year and a son in their fourth. They were perfect in his eyes - nothing could change that.
Charles Henry Francis, his first son. From the moment Henry was born, it was expected of him to not only become King and rule the country in the future, but also to father an heir. From the first moment Henry held his son; emotions he never knew existed were brought to life. Charles was a splitting image of his father, and as the years went by that became more and more obvious. Born with his father's dark brown hair, stormy grey eyes and even his roguish smile, Charles was destined to become a little heartbreaker in his future years. But he was also a smart boy; interested in history and how things worked, Charles loved going out and getting his hands dirty. He even built his own tree house where he could hide out whenever he was in trouble. Charles wanted to spend as much time as he could with the Prince, who at times could get caught up in royal matters which could send him away from home. He spent many hours with his father; listening to his stories around the dinner table, accompanying him on hunting trips and even attempting to read the same books as Henry. Together, they were a perfect match.
Then there was Nicole, his little angel. Henry was surprised when he heard two baby cries the morning Danielle had gone into labour. He had been blessed with a son and a gorgeous little daughter, Nicole Paulette Marie. He spent hours marvelling at how small her hands were and how cute her smile was. A dream, that was the only way to describe how he felt. A perfect replica of her mother, Nicole was the definition of adorable. With sky blue eyes, rosy cheeks and chestnut coloured hair which cascaded in ringlets, she was daddy's little Princess. Henry dotted on her shamelessly, and looked out for her like only a father can. The young Princess spent a great deal of her time playing with the young girls at court and painting with Gustave, who was always telling him what a little artist she was. She was like a mother to her little brother, and at times it looked as though Charles respected her like a mother as well, although he would never admit it. She was a born romantic, as Leonardo put it. She loved listening to stories of Princes and their ladies and romantic fairytales. Henry had even had men of the court come up to him, offering their sons as a future husband to his little girl. But the Prince would have none of it, opting to let Nicole chose, preferring that she didn't make that decision just yet.
Finally, there was little Philippe. The trouble maker of the lot, Philippe prided himself on getting into some sort of trouble and making others save him because he couldn't get out of it. Danielle had completely caught him off guard when she told him she was expecting their third child. It was Christmas Eve and the twins had just turned two. But, as with all of his children, it was a beautiful and rewarding moment his son, Philippe Edward Marcus entered the world. At first, everyone thought that Philippe was going to look like his mother; born with dark blue eyes and a light patch of brown hair. However, he soon grew out of that, when his hair began to darken and his features strengthen to look more like Henry's. But with his spirited attitude, it seemed like hardly anyone could get him to settle down. All accept his grandmother. Marie had a special way with her youngest grandson that could not be explained, but they were grateful for. However, he was a little darling and everybody knew it.
And now, Danielle was pregnant again with another child. Boy or girl; Henry didn't know, but he secretly hoped for another daughter. He would never tell Danielle that, the two always had a competitive streak between them, and it was always fun to see who won.
"Henry...Henry," the Prince was brought out of his thoughts by his wife. "Are you coming in?" When he finally looked at her, Danielle smiled and held out her mitten covered hand. "Sweetheart, come inside. It's absolutely freezing out here."
The Prince smiled warmly at his wife and took her offered hand. He hadn't known true peace until she came into his life. He loved her more then life itself and was willing to sacrifice anything to keep her happy. "Have I told you lately how much I love you?" Henry asked as the two of them walked through the crisp snow in the direction of the chateau.
"Why yes milord, you have. However, if you wish to tell me again, you may do so..." Henry was about to accept his Princesses invitation but was stopped suddenly when she placed a gentle finger to his lips, silencing him, "...only when we are inside though."
Danielle chuckled at her husband's disappointment. She loved no one with the kind of passion and commitment that she had for Henry. He was perfection in everyway in her eyes. He was a wonderful husband, a dedicated father, a regal and passionate leader and a trustworthy friend. He was certainly one of a kind, totally irreplaceable.
"But darling that's unfair," the Princess heard her husband mutter, "I wish to tell you now."
The Princess looked back at her husband, and was surprised to finding him pouting. It was the same look that Charles sported whenever he didn't get his way; at least she knew where he got it from. Sometimes she couldn't believe that this man before her was the next King of France; he could be so childish at times. However, Henry's pout was short lived, for as soon as he and his wife locked eyes, they burst out into laughter. This was another trait that Henry loved about his wife. Her sense of humour was witty and intelligent as well as being comical. The royal court had been able to witness some rather memorable outbursts by the Crowned Princess, some of which had the entire court laughing.
"Henry," Danielle said through bouts of laughter, "grow up, will you!" They laughed at her remark, but soon the Prince of France held a playful spark in his eye.
"That Milady is no way to speak to your Prince. I think you need to run rather fast if you are to escape the punishment I have in mind for you," Henry had a playful smirk upon his face, which Danielle returned playfully. "I think that somebodies in a little bit of trouble with her husband."
"Oh Henry," Danielle looked over at her husband innocently, "you wouldn't really force a pregnant woman; your pregnant wife, no less, to run. Would you? That could be awfully dangerous Milord, what would Mother and Father say about this?"
The Prince thought carefully for a second then returned his intense gaze to his wife. "But sweetheart, you must remember that you were climbing trees and riding horses during your first pregnancy. And may I remind you that you were pregnant with twins at the time?"
"Yes I remember, my sweet husband," Danielle tried quickly to think of a comeback that would end all of this so that she could go back inside and snuggles up beside the fire. "But you must remember that I am not as young as I used to be and have had to carry 3 babies Milord. It doesn't do the body any good. What would you do if something were to happen to us?" The Princess rubbed her belly while looking thoughtfully at her husband.
"Yes, I would have to raise those little rugrats of yours, Milady. Think of all the grey hairs," Henry rubbed his chin, while thinking out loud, just so Danielle could hear him.
"Those rugrats, Milord, are our children and may I say that our son's act more like their father everyday then their mother," Danielle countered her husband's comment.
"What darling, more handsome, charming and completely loveable, just like their father?" Henry smirked as he watched his wife, who was shaking her head in disagreement.
"No Milord, if I think of it from that perspective, I guess they really do take more after their mother then you," the Princess sighed gently at her husband who sent her a cheeky glare. "Oh I must certainly have a good influence on our children, Henry."
"Who knows, my love? However, if the boys take after you, then most certainly Nicole must take after her father," Henry smiled confidently when he mentioned his five year old daughter.
"What, I've never noticed a single chest hair on my daughter! Milord, is there something you are not telling me?" Danielle snickered as her husband looked at her shocked, but then playfully upset. "No Henry, she is much too sweet to take after you."
Again, the Prince put on his little pout as his wife walked over to hug him. "Well perhaps there is a little bit of you in our children. I have seen both of our boys sporting that little pout every so often. Perchance, Milord, they got that from you?"
Henry playfully pretended to think about it for a minute then smiled, "agreed, Milady." He then stuck out his hand, which Danielle grabbed and shook forcefully. He gently pulled her small body into his own and enveloped her in his strong, warm embrace and placed a soft kiss upon her lips. Danielle wrapped her arms around her husband's neck as she slowly deepened the kiss. However, they soon felt the lack of air calling for them and released one another from the embrace. Henry was the first to speak as he lowered his forehead to his wives.
"However Milady, this does not excuse you from telling your husband to grow up!"