This is my first story so here goes…

Disclaimer: I own nothing… except for the plot?

Chapter #1 – A Warm Welcome

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" Jon, we may not have another chance to be alone for a while" began the young lady knight. " What do you want me to do with the jewel?" Sunlight shone through the high stained glass window.

Prince Jonathan gazed at Alanna. "You really have it?" Suddenly, Alanna found herself in Jon's arms.

"Jon…" she began.

" Alanna, I love you" he cut in. Alanna relaxed in Jon's muscular arms. She breathed in his familiar scent.

" I love you too." She managed to gasp before she was pulled into Jon's arms tighter. Jon kissed her passionately. They hadn't seen each other for over a year. They came up for air. Jon was more gentle this time. Finally, he relaxed his hold on her and they separated.

Alanna looked up into his clear blue eyes, she saw love in them. I love you too, she thought as she squeezed his hand in comfort. She turned towards the door.

"George !" Alanna gasped.

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George pulled up his hood before walking into the castle. Stephan had sent him a message. Alanna was home! A young maid had informed him that " Prince Jonathan has taken the lady with copper hair into the small library."

The door was open a crack. He pushed it open all the way and stepped inside the well lit room. George felt his heart stop as he looked at Alanna and Jonathan. Alanna was in Jon's arms, kissing him passionately. Alanna loves him, not me, George realized as he felt his heart cry out in pain. I want Alanna to be happy, George thought. He resolved not to show his feelings to Alanna. I don't want to worry her, or do I? George fought to keep his face expressionless as Allana and Jon broke apart from their kiss. Alanna turned to face him.

"George" she gasped.

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Alanna saw tears in George's eyes. "Alanna, you're home!"

"I am, its so good to see you"

There was an uncomfortable silence between them.

"George, I am really sorry…" began Alanna. George gripped her hand.

"Lass, it's good to have you back,"

Alanna glanced at George's tanned, expressionless face.

"I am glad to be back" she returned.

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Allana slept with Jonathan that night, just like she had when she was his squire. She felt guilty for doing so, but Jon had insisted. After all, she loved him.

"Jon…" she began, testing to see if her lover was asleep.

"Hmm…" came the soft whisper.

"I love you" she said as she snuggled closer to him. She loved her prince more than she would ever love George.

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Alanna awoke early the next morning to do her exercises. The palace was already busy. After about an hour of working with her sword, Lightning, she returned to her room to bathe and dress. After doing these, Alanna placed Faithful, her cat, on her shoulder before sauntering down to the dining hall.

" You seem to be in a good mood" Faithful remarked.

"Why shouldn't I be?" Alanna returned.

Gary was already seated. Alanna took her tray and plopped down beside him.

" Its nice to have you at the palace again" said Gary conversationally.

" So many people have said that to me" Alanna returned.

This comment produced a chuckle from Gary. Suddenly, his voice dropped to a whisper as he said " has Jon asked you yet?"

"Asked me what?"

"Nothing." Gary was clearly disappointed.

"Asked me what?" Alanna questioned again.

"I'm not supposed to tell you."

"Please" Alanna was begging now.

Gary sighed. "Has he asked you for your hand?"

"Hand?" Alanna was bewildered.

"In marriage" Gary finished quietly.

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I love cliffies, don't you?

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