Special thanks to Iyes for sending FOUR Golden Tickets
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Three days had passed since Elysia's return to the palace, and each day felt like a shadow of the last. Her routine had become a monotonous cycle; waking up drained, getting dressed, eating, gazing out the window, and then going to sleep once more
Even though she was glad her maid, Helena, was visiting and entertaining her a lot. She could still sense the tension in the atmosphere. Many guards and servants gave her an odd looks, tiptoeing around her as if she were made of glass, fragile and easily shattered.
It also seemed they didn't trust her not to run away again, as her every move was watched by one person or another. Sevastian had visited her last night to ask about her well-being. Even though he was not the one she wished had come, she was still grateful that he thought to check on her.
Elysia hadn't caught even a glimpse of the King during these three days. She couldn't see him leave or return from her window, which saddened her. To think about how things had changed between them, the distance between them made her feel lonely.
It was a gloomy morning as Elysia sat alone in her chamber, her eyes fixated on the soft glow of morning light filtering through the curtains. Ever since her return, it felt like the walls were closing in on her, and she longed for things to return to the way they once were.
After what felt like hours, a gentle knock echoed through her chamber. It was her maid, Helena, whose warm presence brought a hint of comfort to the room. Seeing Elysia's state, Helena approached with a sympathetic smile, though her own face seemed flushed with happiness. She took Elysia's hand, her voice soft. "Good morning, Lady Elysia, you look worse than yesterday." Helena greeted, concern in her voice.
A sigh escaped Elysia's lips. "Do you blame me for that? I am extremely bored I feel like jumping out of the window," she said, pointing dramatically toward the window.
Horror washed over Helena's face, the smile on her lips disappearing in an instant"You do not mean that, my lady, surely you jest?" Helena exclaimed, her eyes wide with concern.
Elysia wanted to roll her eyes at her maid's overreaction. Despite her sadness, she had no desire to die. Life was still beautiful, and she was very young. "I was only joking, Helena. Please, do not faint on me," she replied, trying to lighten the mood.
A look of relief replaced Helena's horrified expression. "That's a very expensive joke, my lady," she chuckled nervously. Then her eyes lit up. "Would you like to go outside for a bit? The garden is beautiful at this hour, and the fresh air might do you some good."
Elysia hesitated but eventually agreed, allowing Helena to guide her through the hallway and out into the open courtyard. They walked in silence at first, letting the cool breeze lift the weight of the room's stale air from their shoulders. As they reached the garden, the fragrant scent of roses, jasmine, and lavender made Elysia smile.
Helena's eyes sparkled as they walked, and Elysia noticed. "You seem different, Helena. Happier than usual." She questioned, even though she was not necessarily happy. She did notice the rather happier looking Helena.
Helena blushed, her cheeks a soft shade of pink. "Well… there might be a reason for that, My Lady." She said, looking away shyly. Elysia's curiosity piqued, and for the first time in days, her mind was drawn out of its dark place.
"A reason?" Elysia pressed gently, a hint of intrigue in her tone.
Helena hesitated, her fingers playing with the edge of her apron. "I have… met someone. His name is George. He is gardener here, and—" she paused, her smile widening, "—he is wonderful, Lady Elysia. Kind and thoughtful. He makes me feel heard and understood."
Elysia could not help but smile at Helena's joy. "Tell me more about him. How did you meet?"
Helena's eyes lit up as she recounted their first encounter. "It was a few weeks ago. I was helping carry fresh vegetables from the garden, and there he was working in the garden." Helena moved closer to Elysia, her voice lowered. "And, he was NAKED! He had no shirt on!" Her face reddened even more.
"We exchanged glances, and then, well, he helped me with the basket. We talked a bit, and it all just… happened. I did not expect it at all." She continued.
Elysia listened with genuine interest, her heart warmed by Helena's story. She could sense the lightness in Helena's voice, the sweetness of young love.
They strolled deeper into the garden, passing beds of roses and ivy-covered archways, Helena continued her tale. "He says his parents live in Brimshire, but he stays here with his childhood friend. He also mentioned he has only two siblings, an older brother and a younger sister." Helena explained. "He asked me to meet him again tonight after evening chores. He mentioned he has something special planned. Can you imagine? I cannot stop thinking about him!" Helena's excitement was infectious, and Elysia found herself smiling.
"I am so happy for you, Helena," Elysia said softly. "You deserve this happiness, and George sounds like someone who truly loves you."
Helena's gaze softened, and she took Elysia's hand in hers. "Thank you, My Lady. You have always been kind to me. I only wish for you to find the same happiness someday."
Elysia looked away, her heart aching. Perhaps love was something she could still dream of, even if it seemed distant now. For a brief moment, she allowed herself to believe in a future where she might experience the joy Helena spoke of, the kind of love that brought light even in the darkest times. "Thank you, Helena, now, tell me more about this new lover of yours?" Elysia nudged Helena playfully.
They continued their walk, talking and laughing softly, finding solace in each other's company.