Time together

Elizabeth stood at the grand entrance of the Capital City’s main hall, her heart pounding in her chest. The staff around her were a flurry of activity, ensuring everything was perfect for the arrival of the Murican delegation. She adjusted the Phoenix pendant around her neck, a small gesture that brought her a sense of calm.

As the delegation approached, Elizabeth’s eyes scanned the group, searching for a familiar face. And there he was—King Ethan, looking as regal and composed as ever. Her breath caught in her throat, a mix of excitement and nervousness washing over her.

“Welcome to the Capital City,” she greeted, her voice steady despite the emotions swirling within her. “Imperatrix Auriella is honored to have you here.”

Ethan’s eyes met hers, and for a brief moment, the world seemed to fade away. “Thank you, Lady Tanaka,” he replied, his voice warm and familiar. “It’s good to see you again.”

As the formalities continued, Elizabeth’s mind was a whirlwind of thoughts. Does he feel the same way I do? she wondered. Does he think about our time together as often as I do? She maintained her composure, but inside, her heart was racing.

After the initial greetings, Elizabeth found herself standing beside Ethan as they walked through the hall. “It’s been too long,” he said softly, his voice just for her.

“Yes, it has,” she replied, her heart aching with the weight of unspoken words. “I wasn’t sure if I’d see you again.”

Ethan’s hand brushed against hers, a fleeting touch that sent a shiver down her spine. “I’m here now,” he said, his eyes holding a promise.

As they continued through the hall, Elizabeth couldn’t help but feel a sense of hope. The future was uncertain, but in that moment, with Ethan by her side, she felt a glimmer of possibility. The Phoenix pendant rested against her heart, a symbol of the bond they shared and the challenges they would face together.

“Ethan,” she began, her voice trembling slightly, “I’ve missed you.”

He stepped closer, his hand reaching out to gently cup her cheek. “I’ve missed you too, Elizabeth,” he replied, his voice filled with sincerity. “Every day, every moment.”

The distance between them vanished as he pulled her into an embrace. The warmth of his body against hers was a comfort she had craved for weeks. She closed her eyes, savoring the feeling of being in his arms once more.

“I thought about you every day,” she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper. “Wondering if you were safe, if you were thinking of me too.”

Ethan’s grip tightened slightly, his breath warm against her ear. “I never stopped thinking about you,” he murmured. “You were always in my thoughts, my dreams.”

They stood there for a moment, wrapped in each other’s arms, the world outside forgotten. The Phoenix pendant pressed between them, a symbol of their connection and the challenges they faced.

Finally, Ethan pulled back slightly, his eyes searching hers. “We have so much to talk about,” he said, his voice filled with a mix of determination and tenderness. “But for now, let’s just be here, together.”

Elizabeth nodded, a smile spreading across her face. “Yes, let’s,” she agreed, feeling a sense of peace she hadn’t felt in weeks.

As they sat down together, the weight of their responsibilities momentarily lifted, they allowed themselves to simply enjoy the rare and precious time they had. The future was uncertain, but in that moment, they had each other, and that was enough.

The next morning, their bodies entwined together, they slowly awakened. The sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow over them. Elizabeth traced her fingers along Ethan’s arm, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.

“Work still has to be done,” she whispered, a hint of reluctance in her voice.

Ethan nodded, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. “I know,” he replied softly. “But we’ll face it together, just like we always have.”