Maeve's Departure

I sit with Maeve and Elau in the grove thumbing through a book Maeve had handed to me.

“I hope this helps you, Nic.” Maeve sits with perfect posture on the oak tree. “ I think there is a way magically you can prove your heritage and I think the answer might be in that book.”

“I’ll read through it carefully.” I pull her into a hug, “Thank you for helping and understanding.”

“None of this would have been possible without your help.” Elau adds as I release her from my grasp.

“ I need to talk to you about something important. I've been thinking a lot lately, and I’ve come to a decision. I have to go back home. I know it seems sudden, but there’s something I need to do, and I can’t put it off any longer.” Maeve says twirling her hair,“You both have inspired me. You are sure of your love and mine has been eating me up inside. I can’t keep pretending like everything is fine. I need to be brave and tell him how I really feel.”

“Maeve, that is wonderful!” I tell her, excited for her future endeavors, “Although we will miss you a lot.”

“And I will miss you both as well. I’ve always admired people who have the courage to follow their hearts, and now it’s my turn to be one of those people. I’ve been holding back, afraid of rejection, but I realize that not knowing is even worse. I need to face this head-on, no matter the outcome.” She looks nervous but I know deep down she is excited to see where things go with her love.

“You won’t regret it.” I assure her by grabbing her hand, “I promise.”

“Thank you, my Friend. I hope you are right." She starts to say something but pauses and looks away before continuing. "You know, Niccola, I’ve been thinking a lot about the future lately. As much as my life is filled with duties and expectations, I feel like we have so much potential to support each other’s dreams and endeavors. It’s something that I think will be very important in the future.” Maeve squeezes my hands not letting go. I can feel the sincerity in her voice.

“I completely agree, Maeve. Our experience here has allowed us to build a wonderful friendship, and I hope you know I will continue to support you as my future Queen.” I release her hands and sit next to her. Maeve’s support is more important now more than ever. If I am the Princess I will need as much support as I can get from the surrounding Realm.

“Thank you, Nic. Your support means the world to me. I think if we work together, we can create a world that has Humans, Elves, and all beings thriving. It’s so easy to get caught up in our individual responsibilities, but I believe that by supporting each other, we can achieve so much more. So let me be clear that you have my support, and when you need my support I will be there.” Her words bring tears to my eyes. Maeve is genuinely going to be an amazing Queen one day.

“Absolutely. We’re stronger together.”

“I couldn’t agree more. Here’s to a future filled with collaboration, support, and success.” She cheers with an imaginary glass and I giggle joining her.

“Here’s to the future, Maeve. I’m so grateful to have you by my side. Let’s make it extraordinary.”

We stay in the grove for a few hours, the atmosphere is serene and filled with laughter. The sun casts a golden glow through the trees, creating a magical ambiance. We chat about everything and nothing, sharing stories and dreams. The leaves rustle gently in the breeze, and the scent of blooming flowers fills the air. As the sun begins to set, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. We watch in awe, feeling a deep sense of contentment and connection. The day fades into twilight, but the warmth of our friendship remains, making the moment truly unforgettable.

When the sun disappears we head back to the castle to our separate chambers taking one last hug goodbye.

Soon enough the next day has passed and I join the other Ambassadors and the Royal Family at the castle exit watching Maeve climb into her carriage to head back to Havestree. Watching the carriage leave from the castle, I feel a mix of emotions. The grand gates swing open, and the elegant carriage, adorned with intricate designs, begins its journey. The horses, strong and majestic, trot steadily down the cobblestone path. The castle, with its towering spires and stone walls, stands proudly in the background. As the carriage moves further away, the sound of wheels on stone fades, replaced by the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze. I know that Maeve is on the right path and I hope that she can be with her true love when she returns home.

We all head to the dining hall for dinner with the Royal Family and I find myself sitting next to Elau.

The dining hall buzzs with the lively chatter between the Ambassadors and the Royal Family. Amidst the conversations, my eyes meet Elau’s and soon enough we are engaging in a silent, intimate dance of flirtation. A subtle smile plays on my lips, a silent invitation that only he could decipher. He responded with a slight raise of his eyebrow and a playful smirk, conveying a message understood only by us.

I gently brushed my hair back, exposing my neck, a gesture that seemed casual to others but was a deliberate act of allure meant for the Prince. He leans back in his chair, his fingers lightly tapping the edge of the table, a rhythm that matches the beating of his heart. Our connection is undeniable, it feels as though an invisible thread has tied us together even in the midst of the bustling dining hall.

As the conversation around us continues, I reach for my glass of wine, my fingers lingering on the stem as I take a slow sip. His gaze follows my movements, his eyes darkening with a mix of affection and desire. I placed the glass back down, my fingers brushing against his momentarily, sending a shiver down his and my own spine.

We exchanged glances filled with unspoken words and promises, our silent communication a language all our own. The others remained oblivious to the charged atmosphere between us, lost in their own world of stories and laughter. I can’t wait until I have him alone, lust fills my thoughts.

Elau leans towards me and whispers, “I hope you don’t plan on sleeping tonight.” I smile trying to hold my reaction inside.