Jessamyn finished her story, smiling. "That's so romantic," Alex smiled dreamily. He felt his heart sink like a weighed down rock as he thought of the love he'd never have. His father had the choice of whom he was to wed.
Jessa seemed to feel his pain. "Your father already has chosen for you, I see. Well, I'm sure this Princess is a great woman." She looked down briefly before looking up to meet his saddened eyes. They stared at each other breathlessly for several moments, each realizing that they didn't want the other to be wed to anyone but each other.
"Well, young man," Jessa smiled after managing to break out of her reverie, "we must be on our way if we wish to slay the beast before it attacks again, tomorrow night."
"Tomorrow NIGHT?" Alexander asked disbelivingly, suddenly alert. "We have ONE NIGHT to kill the monster which has been ravaging my kingdom for MONTHS?"
"Yes, your majesty," Jessa laughed, standing up. "I realize it isn't that long of a time, but if we work together we shall get it done." She dusted off her long skirt gently.
"Of course," Alex smiled, watching her pull at the skirt, which was bunched up in the back. Jessa felt his stare and scolding him teasingly. He just laughed in response.
Jessa gently pulled Alex to stand up with her. She let out a loud whistle. From the meadow, a huge black stallion cantered in. Jessa petted the horse softly on the nose before bounding up. Alex swiftly followed her. "Alex, may I introduce you to Filipina, my mother's best, swiftest, and sweetest horse." Together, the dreamers rode off into the sun, not knowing what perils would find them, yet believing that they could master it all.