Happy reading....

Prince Tristan awoke to the soft morning light streaming through the curtains of his chamber. The events of the previous night came rushing back to him, and he turned quickly to where Princess Elara should have been lying. The bed was empty, her side already cold.

A pang of worry struck him. Had she left because of him? Was she already regretting their union? Determined to find her, he quickly dressed and left the room, his heart pounding with uncertainty. Then he realised last night he slept in another chamber and he also remembered his bestfriend's advice.

He made his way to the queen's quarters, hoping his mother would know where Elara had gone. Queen Selene was seated by the window, reading a book when Tristan entered. She looked up, her expression a mixture of curiosity and mild surprise.

"Mother," Tristan began, a note of urgency in his voice, "do you know where Elara is? She wasn't in our chambers when I woke up."

Queen Selene set her book aside, regarding her son with a calm, knowing look. "She left early this morning, Tristan. She wanted to familiarize herself with the palace grounds. She felt it important to understand her new home."

Tristan nodded, feeling a mix of relief and guilt. "Did she say where she was going specifically?"

"She mentioned starting with the gardens. She seemed quite eager to see them," Queen Selene replied.

"Tristan, give her time. She is adjusting to this new life, just as you are."

"I understand, Mother," he said, his voice softer now. "Thank you."

With that, he left the room and made his way to his own quarters to prepare himself. His mind was a whirl of thoughts as he stripped off his clothes and stepped into the large, marble bathing chamber. The room was opulent, with intricate mosaics adorning the walls and a large, sunken bath filled with steaming water.

Tristan sank into the bath, the hot water soothing his tense muscles. He scrubbed himself vigorously, the events of the previous day playing over in his mind. He had a chance to make things right, to start anew. After thoroughly cleansing himself, he stepped out of the bath and wrapped himself in a plush towel, the scent of lavender clinging to his skin.

Dressed in fresh clothes, Tristan felt more determined. He had to find Elara and show her he was sincere in his desire to make their union work. As he made his way to the gardens, he couldn't help but admire the beauty of the palace grounds. The gardens were a testament to generations of careful planning and care, with vibrant flowers, meticulously trimmed hedges, and fountains that sparkled in the morning light.

Finally, he spotted her. Princess Elara was standing among a group of maids, her attention focused on a bed of blooming roses. The maids were chatting animatedly, clearly enjoying the princess's company. Elara herself seemed to radiate a quiet joy, her face softening as she admired the flowers.

Tristan's breath caught in his throat. Bathed in the golden daylight, Elara looked like a vision. Her golden hair cascaded down her back in soft waves, catching the sunlight and shimmering like spun gold. Her gown, a light blue that complemented her fair skin, fluttered gently in the breeze. She moved with an effortless grace, her slender fingers brushing the petals of a flower as she leaned in to inhale its fragrance.

Her eyes, a deep and serene blue, were filled with a mixture of curiosity and contentment as she took in the beauty of the garden. There was a strength in her bearing, a quiet resolve that belied her gentle demeanor. She was a beacon of peace and warmth, standing in stark contrast to the savage and ruthless reputation that Tristan had cultivated for himself.

Gathering his courage, Tristan approached her. "Elara," he called softly, his voice carrying over the gentle hum of the garden.

She turned to face him, her expression calm but guarded. "Good morning, Tristan," she replied politely, though her eyes held a hint of wariness.

Tristan took a deep breath, determined to bridge the gap between them. "I see you found the gardens. They are truly beautiful, aren't they?"

Elara nodded, her gaze drifting back to the flowers. "Yes, they are. It's a peaceful place, a stark contrast to the turmoil of recent events."

Tristan stepped closer, his tone earnest. "Elara, I want to apologize again for my behavior last night. I know I've made a poor impression, and I deeply regret causing you any distress."

Elara met his gaze, her eyes searching his. "You spoke of wanting to prove yourself last night. Are your words genuine, Tristan? Or are they merely an attempt to ease your own conscience?"

Her question struck him deeply, and he took a moment to consider his response. "I meant every word, Elara. I know it won't be easy, and I know I have a long way to go to earn your trust. But I am committed to making this work, not just for the sake of our kingdoms, but for us as individuals. I want to understand you, to support you."

Elara studied him for a moment, her expression softening slightly. "Words are indeed easy, Tristan. Actions will speak louder. But I appreciate your honesty. Let us take this one step at a time."

Relief washed over him, and he nodded. "Agreed. One step at a time."

As they stood together in the garden, surrounded by the vibrant blooms and the gentle murmur of the fountains, Tristan felt a glimmer of hope. It was a small step, but it was a start. And for the first time, he allowed himself to believe that perhaps, just perhaps, they could find a way to build something meaningful from the ashes of their kingdoms' conflict.

*****

Woah! Didn't expect Prince's gentle behaviour towards his wife 😍

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Allah Hafiz ✨