Night had fallen over the capital.
A gentle breeze stirred the flowers in the royal gardens, carrying the faint perfume of roses and moon-bloom lilies.
Lanterns glowed softly along the paths, their light reflecting in the still waters of the fountain.
And there I was, lying across Isabella's lap.
Her fingers trailed slowly through my hair, combing lazily as she gazed up at the stars above. Neither of us spoke for a while, content with the quiet and each other's warmth.
"…It's beautiful tonight," she murmured at last, her voice low, almost tender.
"Mhm," I hummed, my eyes half-closed.
"But not as beautiful as the queen staring at them."
Her hand stilled, then gave my hair a sharp tug.
"Hmph~. Sweet words again." She pouted faintly, but her cheeks carried the soft glow of satisfaction.
"Do you think I don't know how easily you say them?"
I smirked faintly, tilting my head to look up at her.
"Then why are you blushing?"
