Chapter 106: Eyes on the Queen
Ariana’s lips parted open. This note... it was very familiar to her, and the moment she heard it, the shock that hit her wasn’t just normal—it was like a wave crashing into her. She hadn’t expected it at all. It was the kind of feeling where your body shivers lightly, and your ears catch a nostalgic ring that tugs at something deep within you.
But... her mother had told her she made that song.
So how was it being played now?
Ariana had heard her mother sing the song before, sometimes humming it softly. That was why she recognized it so quickly. Her heart swelled, and she could already feel her mother beside her. For the first time in a long time, she felt her mother’s presence deep within her with no doubt.
Was it because of the song?
"Ariana."
Her body stilled the moment she heard the voice. She turned, looking around. Zavren, who had been observing her, then spoke calmly.
"My wife, is something the matter?" he asked as he locked eyes with her. His hand moved gently, slowly tucking a few strands of hair behind her ear.
A soft gasp escaped through the crowd—they had definitely seen the romantic gesture the King had just done with the Queen. Ariana’s face warmed. Her skin tingled slightly. He had done that in front of so many people she didn’t even know.
Right now, she wanted to cry—not from pain, but because her heart felt full. She couldn’t believe what had just happened the note... She felt like she could finally let go, be free of everything that had been weighing on her. She didn’t even know how to explain what she was feeling.
Strangely, she was even more surprised than anyone else.
Even though she was aware that Lady Stephanie would be playing an instrument, she had no idea she would be playing for her. And not to mention—it was one of the songs she had loved hearing from her mother. Her mother used to hum this same song in the kitchen, in the garden, and even during bedtime. It was the last thing she expected—actually, she hadn’t expected it at all. That’s why it hit her even harder.