August and I could rarely meet these past few days because of work. But still, I waited for him every night hoping we could play or spend time together.
Soon, I slowly got disappointed when a servant would come instead of August and gift me a bouquet of flowers with a letter saying 'sorry for not coming today,' and bone treats for Ember.
Me and Ember were happy at first, he would immediately gobble up his treats while I would place the flowers in a vase and arrange it.
However, we slowly got depressed as it was always the same each day. Today, we were waiting for him again but when I saw the same servant, my smile dropped as Ember's little ears drooped as he cuddled against me.
I sighed, gently stroking Ember's fur. "Do you also miss your papa? I miss him too, Ember." Despite the gifts, the absence of his presence left a growing emptiness in my heart. Eventually, I drifted off to sleep, holding Ember close, hoping tomorrow would be different.
The next day passed in its usual routine. After breakfast, Eliana dressed me, and I made my way to my office. I spent the morning reading and approving documents, ensuring the agricultural sector was running smoothly.
By midday, I decided to visit the farmers to see the crops firsthand. As I walked through the fields, the warm sun on my skin and the scent of the earth calmed me. The farmers greeted me warmly, sharing updates on the harvest and concerns about upcoming weather patterns.
I listened attentively, offering suggestions and noting areas where I could assist. Seeing the progress and hard work of the farmers reminded me why I took this role seriously, but a part of me still missed August's company.
After ensuring everything was in order, I returned to the palace, wondering if this day would bring us closer again.
As I thought about him, I remembered Lys definition of 'Like'. Do I like him then? He's always on my mind when I couldn't see him.
I suddenly remembered Lys' definition of like. The thought swirled in my mind, making me feel both curious and confused. 'Do I have feelings for him then?'
I bit my lip, unsure. I'd never really given much thought to feelings like this before, not in a serious way. If this was 'like', I needed a clearer explanation. Eliana was always blunt with her thoughts, so maybe she could shed some light on it.
Since I'm sure that August won't come again tonight, I invited Eliana to ask questions that has been bugging me.
We were having tea when I finally asked her, "Eliana, did you ever like someone?"
Eliana almost spat the tea she's drinking, her eyes wide then a grin formed on her lips, "Well, it's not that I like him but I love him."
Curious, I put down my cup as I focused on her, "Love?"
Eliana's grin widened as she leaned in, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Yes, Your Majesty, love. It's a much deeper feeling than just liking someone. When you like someone, you enjoy their company, their presence makes you happy. But love... love is when you can't stop thinking about them, when their happiness means more to you than anything else. It's when your heart races just hearing their name."
I blinked, trying to process her words. "And... how do you know if it's love?"
Eliana giggled, "Well, Your Majesty, do you think of His Majesty often? Does your heart race when you see him? Do you find yourself looking for him even when he's not around?"
I opened my mouth to respond but quickly closed it, feeling a sudden rush of warmth. 'I'm in love with August?' My happiness was short lived as it was replaced with fear. What if August doesn't feel the same way for me? Maybe he doesn't even has feelings for me and even if he has feelings for me then why won't he visit me?
Eliana noticed the hesitation in my eyes, her expression softening. "Your Majesty, love doesn't always follow a clear path. Sometimes, even the ones who love us can be weighed down by their own responsibilities, fears, or even the desire to protect us."
I sighed, feeling a mix of confusion and longing. "But what if that person doesn't feel the same?"
Eliana squeezed my hand. "There's only one way to know for sure—talk to that person, Your Majesty. If he feels the same way with you, you'll notice the way he looks at you and the care in his actions. But love isn't something you should carry alone. It's something you both need to share, in words, actions, and trust. If you don't tell him how you feel, you'll always wonder 'what if.'"
Her words struck me deeply. I'm scared of the outcome but I'll try to confess my love to him.