"Ah, Melody, we truly had no desire to delay this marriage, but it seems circumstances have left us no choice," Queen Margaret said gently, patting Melody's hands in reassurance.
"I understand, Your Majesty. The situation in the North is undoubtedly of great urgency," Melody replied graciously, her voice calm. "I'm not in a rush. I can wait as long as necessary."
Just then, Izaak entered the chamber, halting his steps upon seeing them. "Mother? I didn't expect you here—I thought you'd be preoccupied with Lillian's wedding preparations." He bowed respectfully before approaching.
Queen Margaret gave him a warm smile. "I came to inform Melody of the unavoidable delay," she explained, rising gracefully from her seat. "I shall take my leave now. The two of you can speak in private." With that, she exited the room, leaving them alone to talk.
"Mother has already spoken to you, I see," Izaak remarked, his gaze softening as he looked at Melody.
