Dieter frowned. “Why not?”
“I am in service to Her Highness. She has forbidden it.”
The rumor was true. Indignation washed over him that such a beauty, made to pleasure a man and bear him sons, had been denied the opportunity. “This seems unfair. Surely, you have had many suitors?”
She made a snorting sound. “A lady-in-waiting is considered fair game by many suitors, most of whom don’t have noble intentions. They’re aware we cannot marry.”
In a moment of clarity he understood the reasons for the severe hairstyle and pouty face. She was a desirable woman who had known only the basest instincts of men since leaving the protection of her family. She had learned to defend herself and her heart as best she could, and he had caused her more fear and uncertainty. “Did you never wish to marry?”
It was a long while before she answered. “If I ever marry, I would wish for an honorable man like my father. He is kind and loving.”
Should he push her? Why did he want to ease the hurts she’d endured, to let her know not all men behaved thus? She had no reason to trust him—he had carried her away. “You have never met such a man?”
“No,” she whispered, refusing to look at him.
Löwe lumbered to his feet, waddled over to her and laid his muzzle on her lap.
“He likes you,” Dieter exclaimed, wishing he could lay his head on her tempting thighs and gaze up at her as his dog did. He had a curious yearning for that elegant hand to be stroking and petting him.