My poem, for you

The hallways are dark and cramped. The twisting passages confine the pursuer, leaving no room for mistakes. The steps are steep and damp, making them very dangerous. Last week, a previous maid had tripped on her hem of her dress. She was left with broken legs and a destroyed wardrobe. I do pity her, but if only she had been more careful while bringing the earl's breakfast.

A sigh escapes my tired lips, expressing my enjoyment of this job.

Oh! I must hurry before Duke Rothessay becomes irate! I mustn’t dwell on the past...it does no good for the future. At least that is what the head-maid told me.
She is a wise lady, even though short in temper...

I walk briskly up the winding stairs, holding the food tray in one hand and a candle in the other. Finally, a tall wooden door is visible, marking the entrance the end of the passageway. Reaching the Duke's room, I knock gently.

"Enter! Well, come on! I’m hungry and have a busy day today!"

I push the solid entrance in, and step into the room before I am squashed by the door. I blow the candle out and close my eyes, allowing myself to become accustomed to the darkness. I hear soft muttering and open my stinging eyes, intent on properly servicing the Duke. He sits on the bed in his night-clothes, which are slightly rumpled from his sleep. With an impatient air, he watches me prepare his breakfast tray. I very much hope the cooks prepared his meal well, as he likes his porridge with a lot of honey, and his tea straight. Bringing it over to him, I pour his tea and watch the steam swirl from the cup.

The Duke reaches for the tea cup and sips it...then smiles. Relief blossoms across my face, grateful that he is satisfied. I exhale, presently realizing I had been holding my breath.

He pats the bed beside him, clearly wanting me to sit. I shake my head vehemently, expressing that I am just a lowly maid. I have no right to touch his fine bed. If the Head-maid were to find out...I would be banished from the castle. And return to my small farm, which may no longer exist.

"Do you DARE defy me?” he growls. But! I almost did not hear him whisper, “Please”. It was a begging sound, full of sorrow and loneliness.

I carefully sit next to him and rest the empty tray on my lap. My head faces the wall, but I watch him out of the corner of my eye. He is handsome, yes, definitely handsome. Even rumpled from sleep and unshaven. Battles and tournaments have taken their toll on the Duke, leaving him with rippling muscles. A thin scar mars his jaw, under his right eye. Maria, a young maid, said it was from an unsuccessful jousting tournament. I was told to never mention it, especially since it brought shame upon his pride.

Four months ago, I was assigned to serve the Duke. Unfortunately, stories of his anger circulated among the maids. Those who served him feared him; those who did not longed for him. I, knowing fully well of the stories, proceeded with caution. I made sure that every meal was perfection. Every cloth was the finest. Every day was the best. Still, I do not know if I am doing a good job, or if he favors me. From when I first served him breakfast, he was gentle. Never rising to strike me, never punishing me for a mistake. Of course, he raises his voice when irritated, but that doesn't bother me. I have served more irascible individuals, the Earl of Barton, for example.

Lost in my revelation, I jump when the tray is pushed off of me and onto the floor. Whipping my head around, I turn and see his face next to mine. I feel a gentle pressure as he burrows his face in my hair, breathing in its scent.
After a moment, he stirs, clearly relaxed of all stress. His face is now relaxed, as if has forgotten all of his worries.

“Go” He breathes, “You must resume your duties”.

“Yes, Milord” I respond, climbing off the vast bed and picking up the tray. I collect the bowl and cup, tidying up the table. Then, I quietly leave the room, pulling the heavy door closed behind me. Trudging down the stairs, I think over my duties for the day, only looking forward to serving the Duke.

My Duke.