Chapter 95: Mothers, Part I
After the ceremony concluded, the bustling crowd dispersed from the greenhouse, their laughter and chatter trailing behind them as they made their way to the main dining hall. There, amidst the opulent decor arranged by thoughtful maids, awaited a feast fit for royalty—platters mounted with an array of delicious dishes and glasses brimming with wine that seemed to flow endlessly.
Every dweller of the castle received a warm invitation to partake in the festivities, where the air was filled with camaraderie and the bonds of kinship. Here, distinctions of servitude dissolved, for this night, they were not master or servant; they were simply family and friends, united in celebration.
Aideen stood poised at the heart of the greenhouse, patiently awaiting the moment when its vibrant energy subsided into a hushed serenity once more. While the lively ceremony had been a joyous occasion, there lingered within her a solemn duty that could not be deferred—a task that beckoned her attention, demanding solitude and reflection.
With slow and deliberate steps, the princess walked through the quiet ambiance of the greenhouse, as though hesitant to disrupt its serene stillness. Ahead lay a rectangular bed with an exquisite dark red peony at its heart. Gently, she settled onto the stone border encircling the bed, leaning forward until her arms rested upon the vibrant surface of fresh grass, her chin finding solace upon crossed wrists.
"Mother..."
Aideen’s voice, soft and laden with emotion, broke the silence as she closed her eyes, attempting to untangle the jumble of thoughts and feelings swirling within her. Despite her efforts, clarity eluded her, and with a long sigh, she continued,
"Did you enjoy the wedding? It felt magical... The sheer number of guests, the presence of the young foreign king, even the unexpected attendance of dogs! It surpassed any dream I’ve ever had of such a splendid event... And yet, amidst the revelry, you were there, Mother. Finally, by my side during such an important occasion."
The woman’s eyes fluttered open, drawn to the sight of a tall, flourishing flower whose petals mirrored the hue of her own cascading locks. Her gaze lingered on the delicate snowflakes that rested on the velvety petals, refusing to yield to the changing temperatures, and a gentle smile graced her lips.
"In this moment, Mother, I find contentment. Throughout my life, genuine kindness has been a rare gift, yet here, within this enchanting sanctuary, it surrounds me abundantly. Despite the trials we’ve endured, I once believed sorrow coursed through our very veins... But I was mistaken. A heart touched by beauty can never be dulled by pain. It is you who has bestowed upon me such a heart, Mother—a heart that continues to beat with the audacity to love, despite the betrayals it has weathered.