Chapter 279: The Third Lifetime, Adele (5)
Morning.
Castle, Thirheria.
***********
Theodore descended the grand staircase, his footsteps light as he made his way to the garden. The morning sun bathed the palace grounds in a warm glow, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers. Theodore’s heart raced with anticipation as he approached the vibrant garden, a sanctuary of colors and fragrances.
He moved with purpose among the flowerbeds, his eyes scanning the array of blossoms. The roses caught his attention first, their velvety petals a deep, passionate red. He carefully selected a few, his fingers brushing gently against the thorns as he clipped the stems. Next, he chose delicate white lilies, their purity a stark contrast to the intensity of the roses. He added sprigs of lavender for their calming scent, knowing they would complement the bouquet perfectly.
As he gathered the flowers, his mind drifted to Adele, her ocean-blue eyes and the way she had looked at him. The memory of their kiss lingered, bittersweet and confusing. ’She doesn’t remember... but maybe these flowers will help her see who I am, not exactly who we were, but what we could be.’ he believed they might help her forgive him for stealing her first kiss.
Just as he was finishing his bouquet, a soft voice interrupted his thoughts.
"Theodore, what are you doing in the garden so early?"
He looked up to see his mother, the queen, approaching. She was a vision of grace, her gown flowing like water, and her smile as gentle as the breeze. Her name, known for its beauty and elegance, suited her perfectly.
"Mother," he greeted, his voice warm as he straightened. "I am just gathering some flowers."
She joined him, her delicate hands reaching out to adjust a stem that had strayed out of place. Her touch was light, and her movements were as refined as everything she did. "They are lovely," she remarked, a knowing twinkle in her eye. "I assume these are not for decoration in the palace?"