"How did your day fare, my love?" Lucian asked earnestly, causing Isabel to flinch. It was the very first time she had ever heard the king call her that way, and it made her heart flutter with happiness.
"It was good. I received my wage today, and I felt overjoyed knowing I can finally help my mother." Isabel smiled genuinely as Lucian brushed his thumb against her lips.
"And you, my king?" she asked.
"Hm... I felt lonely. Court affairs are such a burden for me, and all I could think about was you."
"Me? It is such an honor to have been in your thoughts, my king," Isabel responded, a warm blush spreading across her cheeks.
Lucian's eyes softened as he looked at her. "You are more than just a fleeting thought, Isabel. You are my comfort amidst the chaos."
She leaned into his touch, sa
