When Felix did not correct her, Ella relaxed slightly, knowing that it was a misstep but unable to change it now. At the same time, she felt a bit of sympathy for him. After all, he'd expected a princess, had he not? He deserved a princess, someone who understood life the way he did, who could empathize with him in a similar way. She should never have tricked him.
But she did love the palace, and the beautiful grounds. She had become very fond of the queen and king in a short time, and she....well, had he ever encouraged it, she could become fond of Felix as well. Certainly friends, she hoped. She would learn to act as a true princess, and he would be able to perhaps relax more around her as well.
It was with that thought in her mind that she expected him to politely give his excuses and be free to go, but then he tendered the offer of returning. Ella couldn't mask her surprise, but she equally showed the bit of pleasure that brought. "If you are not too busy, of course," she answered, with a kind smile, "I would welcome the company." So that he would not need to make excuses to her later, she added, "Even if you can only spare a short time, I am glad for it."
As he turned and left, Ella watched him, with a small curious tilt of her head. He truly was quite handsome. The memory rose up of a few choice adjectives she'd overheard from her ladies in waiting, and she thought about telling him. Since he was out of earshot now, she allowed a small, smothered laugh, and then gracefully sat on the plush divan to read, tucking her feet under her skirts demurely.
Soon, the stories had indeed captured her attention, and although she read painfully slowly, Ella was soon engrossed, her blonde head bent over the volume.