"So," she said, "what is this dilemma? Let us get this over with quickly," she added. "I was having a perfectly peaceful afternoon before you arrived."
"I apologise for disturbing it." Richard gestured towards the seating near the hearth.
She crossed the room and took the chair opposite his.
"It would be better if you were closer, Seraphina," Richard said.
"I thought you would appreciate the distance."
Richard let out a slow breath. It was becoming exhausting speaking to her. Why had he come here again?
"Fine," Seraphina said before he could reply. "I shall move." She crossed to the long settle beside him. Richard shifted slightly to give her room. The moment she sat, he became aware of the faint scent of her perfume.
Seraphina arranged her skirts and looked at him. "So, how may I be of service?"
