Our Little Hideaway

Disclaimer: I own nothing, just the storyline.

Author's Note: Hi guys! A new journey begins... Enjoy it. Big hug to Rach for beta this for me.

Chapter 1

It was a busy day for the queen. Meeting after meeting, so she was very tired and mostly impatient. This usual ten minute break was a real blessing, but now she somehow couldn't enjoy it. She just stood before the window and looked over to the unsigned papers on her desk.

"Damn it," Clarisse sighed resignedly, when the door closed behind her.

"I hope that's not about me," smiled Joseph and stepped closer.

"Oh, Joseph, of course not," said Clarisse with a smile. That was the first time she smiled since this morning. "Anyway, what are you doing…?"

"…in this out-of-the-way place?" Joseph finished the sentence, chuckling. "I just wanted to check you. To see if you are in need of something."

"That's very sweet of you Joseph, but you cannot help me."

"Really? Why are you so sure?"

"I just know it. Oh, Joseph, it's so complicated. Actually I have only one problem, but…"

"Tell me," said Joseph and looked at her encouragingly.

"Well… it's nothing special. I just need a little time to relax. A place where I can be alone. And don't start that thing with the palace. I know that I live in a palace, but I can't be alone even in such a big place. When I walk in the garden, I always meet someone. When I'm indoors, somebody wants to ask something or wants to help. But I just want one second for myself… And when I'm alone, there are the cameras. I know they are just for my safety, but… So I can practically never be alone. Someone is always on track. Oh not you," said Clarisse quickly. "You never disturb me Joseph. Never. Frankly, when you are with me I feel that I am alone. Oh, not as if you don't exist. Oh my God. I'm just babbling… I'm too tired. So I meant when I'm with you it's so relaxing."

"I'm glad to hear that," smiled Joseph and stroked her arm gently. "So it's a serious problem as I see. And we have to figure out something."

"It's hopeless Joseph." Clarisse sighed and looked out of the window. "Maybe I should go to the beach house alone, but I can't run away from cameras. They are everywhere. Who would know that better than you?"

"Yes, you're right, but I have a philosophy," smiled Joseph assertively.

"I know. 'Where there is a will there is a way.'"

"Exactly. So what would you say if I told you that I already have an idea? Hm?"

"I think I should say… I knew it," Clarisse smiled and searched his eyes hopefully. "Well? What's your idea?"

"Alright," said Joseph and started speaking. "I know a place, where there aren't any cameras and you'll still be safe."

"Do you really? If it's true, I would go immediately." Clarisse sighed happily.

"Well then, here's the key," smiled Joseph and handed her a bunch of keys. "You can go there whenever you want."

"Oh, Joseph, I can't tell you how grateful I am," smiled Clarisse with real thanks in her voice and started to leave, when she suddenly stopped. "Oh, how silly I am. I don't even know where I am going," laughed Clarisse. "So where is this place?"

To be continued…

Author's Note: Well, guys, that was the first chapter. I hope you liked it. So what would you say for a second one? Hm?