PART 8
Before Elizabeth knew it, it was the day before the wedding and she was not in lively spirits.
Her emotions were in a constant state of fluctuation. One minute she wanted nothing more than to cancel the wedding that was causing them both so much trouble, and to save them both the anxiety it would inevitably bring. And the next minute she feared that if the wedding were cancelled, her mother would be terribly hurt and her father would go through with his threat and force her to marry the hideous Duke Evans, or he would refuse to allow her to become Queen after his death.
Michael seemed to be able to sense her mood and so suggested they go for a walk through the garden surrounding the castle to escape the noise and the last-minute preparations that had taken over the entire kingdom.
They walked for some time in silence, until, finally, Michael spoke, "I have decided what I want as my 'reward' for helping you."
"What is that?" Elizabeth asked guardedly, remembering the anger he had expressed the last time they had discussed it.
Michael was silent, as though mulling over his decision. He knew what he wanted, but he did not believe that she would agree.
"I want you."
END PART 8