Chapter 98: Strength

I walk through the royal garden, trying to calm down. Ever since being with Noelle, I've found that plants have a way of easing my mind. The peaceful sway of leaves in the breeze and the scent of flowers help drown out the chaos in my thoughts. I settle on a nearby bench, closing my eyes, hoping to steal a moment of quiet.

Lately, I've been entertaining the idea of running away with Noelle. Those memories of us on the hill, just the two of us, feel like an oasis in the middle of this storm. No politics, no power struggles—just peace. We were happiest there. I imagine expanding our little house, making it truly ours. The thought fills me with a bittersweet longing.