Hayley leaned her head against the oak and looked into the sky. She saw a cloud formation that looked like a man and a woman kissing each other. Hayley hated the fact that she was consumed with thoughts of romance.

She picked up the book she had laid on the grass beside her. Books had always been her friend and companion from the time she learned to read. At this moment, however, she was beginning to hate that her life consisted of the reading of books and only daydreaming of a life of love and purpose . The stories allowed her to escape from the reality that was her dull life. She knew her life was not bad, but she had not been allowed to venture beyond her father's acreage. She was ready for adventure.

Hayley's eyes grew heavy after much reading. She stretched out on the plush carpet of grass beneath her.

Closing her eyes she drifted into sleep.

"Hayley."

Opening her eyes, Hayley saw a pair of feet standing in front of her. Pulling herself up slightly, she looked up into Austin's face. She was happy to see that he wore a smile.

"My princess has been sleeping."

Had she heard him correctly? His princess? She raised herself to sitting position and then tried to stand.

Losing her balance, Austin reached out to steady her.

Hayley fell into one of his arms. Excitement filled her heart.