[There was a no way that they could have been spared from having this conversation. It was ought to happen sooner or later, and they both had known about it. Perhaps they both had simply been blinded by the so-called honeymoon phase, indulging in the passion and desires that had been long ignored and denied. Allowing themselves to get lost in the moment of not being alone, that they had simply failed to see the reality approaching them fast in horizon.

However, whether he had been aware of it or not didn't mean that Richard liked having to face it at all. The usual darkness awakens from the back of his mind, calling forth the anxieties that made his heart beat fast and his lungs within his rib cage feel far too tight. But instead of the fear it was irritation that rose to the surface.

Yes. He had mentioned being married. But what else he could have done? Deny Anne? Ridiculous. Especially when there were people present in this world who knew of him and his life. Such lie would be easily caught and trampled. And why should he have to lie about his status. Richard wasn't ashamed of his marriage, or his wife. If anything they both legitimized his status and worth -- working as a shield from piercing rumors and accusations.]

I do not owe her explanation of my actions or the choices I have made. [He says, voice thin and cold. He then sits up on the bed, for once not caring to cover himself.] I have left her alone. It is her who keeps harassing me. If she truly wants to follow me and insult me with her heckles I will not stand by and do nothing. She is no longer a child.