“Why don’t you play board games? I’m sure your younger sisters would enjoy that.”
“A grand idea,” said Ryan. “What do you suggest?”
“There is a store in Edstrom with shelves full of choices,” said Megan. “For lack of room in my suitcase, I only brought a deck of cards.”
“I shall send for one of every kind,” said Ryan.
“Why don’t we wait and see if the game idea sits well with the rest of your family? No sense wasting the taxpayers money.”
“Practical. That’s what I’ve been missing. I indulge my fantasies far too easily,” said Ryan. “You are so good for me, Megan.”
“Good for me, is not on my wish list for a perfect partner, if that’s what you’re hinting at.”
They continued walking toward patio doors at the far end of the room. “What is on your wish list?”
“God-fearing, honesty, integrity, a sense of humor, dedication to good causes, active in a career he loves and…” she looked at Ryan, who beamed, knowing he’d met all the criteria above. For fun she threw in the final two, “handsome is on the list, but only second to character. And finally, the most important; my Mr. Right will not simply be a man living under the same roof, but one I could not bear to live without.”
“That’s quite a list. Mine was written in the Book of Etiquette ages ago by a rigid generation of stately nobles. I think I shall re-write it. I like the personal touch of yours much better.”
“When talking marriage, the personal approach is the only criteria worth considering between two people,” said Megan.
“Well, my list shall be an easy re-write. It will encompass everything you are; for I am quickly determining you are my perfect match.”
“Let’s start with lunch, Ryan,” said Megan, shutting down that line of conversation.
“This way.” The double doors opened onto an inside court. Multi-colored stonework covered the patio floor and on it sat tables, chairs, loungers, and swings. A clear roof that allowed the sun to shine through but kept the heat at bay covered the terrace area. Ryan motioned to a table. “I arranged for the staff to seat us where we can view the gardens. I recall that you like flowers.”
“I enjoy the efforts of talented gardeners but unfortunately do not have a green thumb. I live in a condo and others make the outside attractive while I simply water my easy-to-care-for, inside plants.”
Ryan held the chair until Megan sat and then joined her on the right side so as not to spoil the magnificent view of manicured lawns, colorful plants in season, and trees of all kinds. The design created breathtaking canopies of foliage amidst the strategically planned areas.
“It’s breathtaking, Ryan. I must congratulate your gardener.”
Ryan chuckled. “That would shock him. Most complain when they see a dead bud that hasn’t been snipped or some other minor absurdity. I have taken much for granted in my lifetime and appreciate hearing fresh views.”
“Did I mention manners were on my wish list for the ideal man? Forgive me, but I thought that the wealthy would possess a good dose of social graces and show thankfulness for the underlings that pamper their prosperity.”
“Touché! Our behavior is not always so noble. Routine and age-old customs have quenched my understanding of the commoners. When spoken aloud, the excuse leaves a sour taste in my mouth. One attitude I will definitely work to change.” A man passed on the path in front of them. Ryan beckoned him over.
After a slight bow, a man in white overalls hurried to the patio table. “May I be of service, your Majesty?”
“I was just talking with my guest, Megan Fairchild, and we wanted to thank you for your tireless efforts to make this scene spectacular every day of the year. I am afraid we take you for granted and I apologize.”
The man appeared tongue-tied. He glanced at Megan and responded to her friendly smile with another bow. “No need to apologize, sir. I am paid well to provide this viewing pleasure.”
“Ah, yes, but everyone appreciates a pat on the back now and then. Thank you, George. Can you work at the far end while I visit with Megan? That will be all.”
“Of course, Sir. Enjoy your lunch.” The man turned and hurried away disappearing around the corner of a winding path.
“Well done, Your Majesty,” said Megan, a wide grin lifting and reddening her high cheek-bones. “You scored well in the manners department.”
“That is my goal this entire week – to be all and more than you included on your wish list.”
“I don’t want you to appease my list. It’s either there or not. The list may need updating anyway: It appears I included none of the attributes I might find in a royal-suitor.”
“I am pursuing you, Megan Fairchild. My intentions are serious; nothing frivolous or of a temporary nature are lurking in my agenda. I realize my position may be daunting but am I so unapproachable in your eyes?”
Megan was not given the opportunity to answer. From a small door at the corner of the building, two servers and a cart emerged onto the patio. They worked in silence, pouring water in glasses and red wine in a goblet. Megan supposed this was not the time to tell the efficient staff that she did not drink alcohol. One waiter slapped a napkin open and placed it across her knee. When he turned away, she raised an eyebrow toward Ryan and smiled. Next, a bowl of Greek salad was placed in front of each of them and the two prepared to move the cart. Ryan held up his hand.
“Thank you, Simon and Louise. I ordered a cold lunch so we could have privacy. Leave the cart and we will serve ourselves.”
“Majesty?” the man appeared baffled
