She quickly completed her housekeeping chores and then searched for a way to spend the rest of her time. She wandered around in the garden, trying to ease her restlessness with fresh air and sunshine. The other ladies seemed happy to spend their idle time stitching and reading until the princess needed them. Hanna wanted more. She was sitting on a bench, daydreaming amid the colorful flower beds, when Princess Serena came and sat down beside her. They sat for a moment in an easy silence before the princess spoke. “Are you unhappy, Hanna?” “Of course not, Your Highness.” Hanna turned to look at her princess, forced a smile and swiftly changed the subject. “Done with your royal obligations for today?” “Yes, I thought I’d never get away.” She tilted her head as she looked at Hanna. “Why do you look so sad then? Please tell me.” Her princess was stubborn and smart. Not one to be distracted by a feeble attempt to change the subject. Hanna sighed and tried to make it sound thoughtful instead of melancholy.
