CROWN PRINCE | LES MISÉRABLES

84.

It was my first day back on my feet. I had recovered well. Elizabeth was sleeping all day long for the most time and Timothy was in love with her. He oftentimes would read to her and tell her stories about Bastien. I was happy that Timothy told his little sister stories about his father.

"Mama, Eliza is asleep. Can I put her to bed?", Timothy asked.
"No. Keep her in your arms. I'll be right with you.", I said.

I heard a knock on the door and rushed to open it. It was Combeferre and Delilah who had promised to visit. They wanted to support me with the baby and all.

"Oh bonjour, how are you doing?", Combeferre asked.

Delilah rushed to greet Timothy and to hold little Eliza.

"She's thriving, Annelise. She's beautiful."
"She has Bastiens eyes. She looks so much like him.", I said.

"I am glad you're finally feeling better. Still, I believe you shouldn't be alone. You need rest."
"I have rested the last week. I should be going back to take care of this household.", I said.

"Annelise, I know that it's hard without Bastien, but you don't need to be doing all this. You have a loving family and they'd do anything for you."
"I know. But still. I am old enough. I am 26 and I am an adult. I don't want to depend on other people.", I said.

"You're not depending on them. You just got away from death. What else do you want?"
"I know you're meaning well."
"I know, so let us help you.", he begged.

I sighed and gave in. Combeferre meant well.

"Annelise, how about you go to bed and take a rest? Natalie can play with Timothy and I'll take care of the household. Combeferre will take care of Elizabeth.", Delilah suggested.

"If you insist."
"We do.", they said in unison.

This is why they were the perfect match. Both were demanding and stubborn. Which is why I always lost.

I walked up the stairs to the bedroom. I got into bed and looked at the ceiling. I thought of all the wonderful memories with that man. That crown prince that stole my heart. A beautiful but lost soul that wanted nothing more than to live the life of an ordinary man.

Thinking of Bastien made my heart flutter. It was something so special to me, that I treasured.

I fell asleep thinking of that leader in red, that had taken the world in a storm and fought for justice. Just like he always wanted to.