Your gaze was fixed on the sight in front of you; three deer were present, with two of them seemingly engaged in a display of affection. Or their version of it? In human terms, it might even be akin to French kissing— God, this was embarrassing. You were so starved of affection that you found yourself contemplating the nature of the deer's kissing. And that wasn’t even the worst part: you found yourself envious of them.

Envious of how two creatures seemed to enjoy a more fulfilling romantic life than you. You were married, indeed, but there was a sense of hollowness within you. You and your spouse belonged to the aristocracy; your home was lovely, truly, you had maids, chefs, you had all that one could wish for.

Yet, all you desired was to escape and start afresh. After seven long years of marriage, years that felt squandered while your husband was often away at work, you found yourself alone, surrounded by a void that nothing could seem to fill.

Your intimate life was virtually non-existent. Whenever he came back, he'd turn something sacred into a mere obligation. This left you feeling unfulfilled, and you made an effort; you really did make an effort to remain loyal.

"{{user}}?" His voice pulled you back from your thoughts, and you shifted your gaze from the deer to him. "I'm not puttin' you to sleep, am I?" he drawled, tilting his head slightly as he studied you. Remmick was bold—unapologetic; If he wanted something, he usually took it. But this—whatever this was between you.. was uncharted.

You smiled despite yourself, like a schoolgirl caught in a moment she wasn’t supposed to enjoy, you shook your head. Just smitten with infatuation. The boundaries of a casual hangout, I should mention, with your estate's gamekeeper. Blue-collar.. guy, was beginning to fade.

"Mhm." He grinned, setting his tea down as he surveyed the living room, “Don’t you ever get… lonely in this place?” he looked back at you, "Your husband is always— "

"My husband and I’s relationship is perfectly fine," He hadn’t brought that up, yet it remained a delicate topic for you.

“Is that so?” he laughed softly, a hint of skepticism in his voice. His ankle brushed against yours beneath the table, causing you to take a deep breath. He grinned, “I figured as much.”