Chapter 15: The Queen Mother's Meeting
The long-awaited day had finally arrived. After rumors spread throughout the palace about Prince Wang Joon growing closer to Areum, an envoy was sent from the Grand Hall to deliver an official invitation from the Queen Mother herself. Not just any summons — this signaled that someone was watching more seriously. And that someone was the grandmother of Prince Wang Joon himself, the former Empress Queen now titled the Queen Mother.
Areum sat quietly in her chamber, dressed in a soft pastel hanbok arranged by the maids. Her face was adorned with subtle makeup, but her expression was clearly troubled.
"Why does she want to meet me…? Who am I… if she finds out I'm not from here?" Areum muttered to herself, pinching her cheek — still unable to believe this wasn't a dream. But after weeks trapped in the past and beginning to fall in love, she had come to accept that her heart was already bound.
With slow steps, Areum arrived at the Queen Mother's residence. The space was silent and cold, yet luxurious. Soft golden curtains fluttered with the breeze, and the scent of incense filled the air. Sitting upon a raised platform lined with embroidered pillows, an elderly woman with a face full of wisdom looked at her with sharp yet calm eyes.
"Please, sit down, young girl."
Areum bowed respectfully before slowly taking her seat, her hands trembling slightly.
"I've heard a lot about you," the Queen Mother's voice was even, "especially from my grandson."
Areum forced a faint smile. "I… I mean… I also often… um, see your Majesty."
The Queen Mother raised an eyebrow. "What is your family's background?"
That was an easy question, but incredibly difficult for Areum to answer.
"I… come from a place quite far away. I'm not sure if the name of that place exists here…"
The Queen Mother didn't reply immediately; instead, she scrutinized the girl intently.
"Wang Joon is my beloved grandson. But he's always been distant, rarely opening his heart. Yet lately… he's been laughing. He's been talking. And I know, that's not because of politics or the throne."
Areum lowered her gaze, her cheeks warming.
"My grandson is a clever young man. But when his heart begins to speak… I need to know who touched it."
Areum dared to meet the Queen Mother's gaze. "I don't know how all of this happened. But I'm nobody. I'm just a girl who got lost… and I've never intended to hurt anyone."
The Queen Mother was silent for a moment, then offered a small smile. "You're honest. And sincere. I see that honesty in your eyes."
Areum felt a little relieved, but her heart still raced.
"Areum. Sometimes, this world opens doors we never expected. If you truly love him… don't keep him waiting too long."
Areum fell silent. A gentle feeling crept into her chest.
After the meeting ended, Areum stepped out of the Queen Mother's hall with her heart full of questions… and fluttering with nerves. She knew everything was changing more and more. And perhaps… so was she.
From behind a pillar, someone watched with a calm smile.
Prince Wang Joon.
"She met my grandmother… and still remains so adorable. What more do I need to doubt?"
The Goryeo sky remained blue. But the hearts of two young souls began to be tinged with pink.
To Be Continued...