Nathaniel finished his latest painting.  He sighed. He took up the easel and left.

      Marinette saw him leave and frowned. She felt bad for the red-head boy. She knew he liked Chole.  She had no idea why.

       Chole watched the boy as he packed up. She smirked. She secretly thought he was cute. She just put on a front since she was not sure her father would approve.  What?

          Elsewhere...

        He struggled to break free of the chains that held him. 

       "We are going to die, you know."

      "No, I have to get out of here."

      "Why you so desperate to break free?"

       "I  have to see her."

       "Oh, so it is a woman."

        "Yes, she is my best friend, and I have not seen her since I was eight."

          "Whoa, there, buddy, you need to slow down."

              He coughed three times.  "I have to see her at least one more time."

              "Wow, that is so sad."

              Back at the palace...

                 Marinette tended to the flowers.

                Chole sneaked outside.

                Marinette saw her but did not say a word. She minded her own business. Besides, it was not her secret anyway.   

               Chole arrived in the village area outside within minutes. She saw him and smiled. 

                 " What do you mean leaving like that boy?" She scoffed.

                "Well, you did not exactly give me a warm welcome, your highness." 

                  "It is Princess Chole."

                   "I do not recall being on a first-name basis."

                   "Oh, you!"

                   "Fine, then I am Nathaniel."

                   "Hmmpfth, you could have just said so," She scowled.

                     "I believe I just did."

                      "What is that you do?"

                       "Who me? I am an artist."

                     "Artist, ha!  Surely, you pull my leg as my father forbid such work years ago."

                    "Then, we should not tell him now."

                     "Oh, and just why not?" She raised her eyebrows as she spoke.

                     "I  might find myself under his wrath if you do."

                   Find out more in Chapter 3

                bye, bye little owlets!

              -Summer out!