"Is that so? Then, it is better for you to call him by that name since the two of you agreed on that." Queen Maude smiled. "I think it is a good thing, isn't it?"
Elise struggled to return the smile. "Yes, Your Grace."
"Ahem… you are still not used to calling me 'mother'," commented Queen Maude. "Please just call me 'mother-in-law' or 'queen mother'. I would really appreciate it."
"Ah… sorry," Elise lowered her head sheepishly. "Queen mother."
Queen Maude smiled sweetly. "Thank you. Please stop being so formal with me. I am your mother-in-law because soon you will marry my son. Just keep calling me 'mother'."
"Understood, Your- ahem… queen mother."
Queen Maude touched Elise's arm softly and gave her advice on how to deal with her son.
"Elise, my son is stubborn, but he is actually a good man. I ask that you forgive him, but I know that is not enough." Queen Maude smiled sadly. "Even the kindness of a Leoraleis can only go so far. You must get fed up with him sooner or later."
