Fate II

CCXXIX

Light streamed in through the branches and leaves of Yggdrasil and passed through the massive, grand windows which made up the walls of the large sunroom of Soleil Palace. Lilies and greenery of all different kinds decorated the sunroom as a table and couches were laid neatly in the center of the room. Lucy sat on a long couch, the train of her high-collar, silver-white dress trailing on the side. With the weather getting cooler, Tomoyo had chosen a dress with long, puffed sleeves made of a semi-transparent, breathable material as the weather was still fairly warm for autumn.

"It's delicious," Lucy smiled warmly, her eyes brimming with happiness as she placed her finished plate of fruit tart back down on the table. "I knew Masud was great at cooking but, at this point, it'd be a shame to not open up your own bakery."

"Thank you for the compliment," Masud smiled happily, glad to see her enjoy it as he poured her a cup of earl grey milk tea.

"The Merchant's Guild would not mind investing in you," Lucy said with a business smile but fond eyes. "Maybe one day the Heartfilia Conglomerate will sign an exclusive contract with you and the brand that you've built."

Kuugen nodded his head in agreement. "I've tasted quite a variety of desserts and Masud's could certainly compare to the level of the greatest patissiers out there."

Masud smiled happily, his cheeks flushed a rosy hue and Masrur smiled, gently ruffling his head.

"Thank you. But," Masud's eyes shone brightly, "I'm content with just being able to bake delicious pastries and desserts for Her Royal Majesty."

Lucy perked up and Masud gazed hesitantly up at her.

"Of course, only if Her Royal Majesty allows it..." he trailed off and flustered up, realizing he had gotten ahead of himself.

Lucy stared at him, her heart pounding rapidly within her chest as she fought back the tears that threatened to fall from her eyes. Despite knowing that she would never be able to openly show her affection for him as a mother as long as she was in the position of Queen, he still loved her and wished to stay by her side. He still thought of her as his mother.

Softening her eyes, her honey-brown eyes aglow with affection and happiness, she pulled the corners of her lips into a soft, warm smile. "Of course," she answered. "I look forward to the many delicious desserts that Masud will bring me."

Masud widened his eyes as he immediately brightened up. "Yes!"

Lucy smiled, her cheeks painted a rosy hue.

Just like that, they spent their afternoons in peace whilst quietly enjoying the tea that Tomoyo prepared and the desserts that Masud prepared. How they wished they could spend each passing day like this without worrying about external conflicts but, they all knew it was just wishful thinking. Before long, afternoon tea would end and Masud would leave with Kuugen to return back to their residences which, too, had been reconstructed following the incident as most of the Soleil Palace grounds had been caught up in it. Packing up the basket as Tomoyo cleared up the trays and cups, Masud took his leave.

"Then I will see you again tomorrow, Your Royal Majesty," he bowed.

"Mn," Lucy nodded her head. "I look forward to tomorrow, Masud."

Masud quietly left the balcony of the greenhouse as Tomoyo and Kuugen, too, excused themselves, leaving Masrur and Lucy alone. The two sat there in silence, enjoying each other's company as the branches and leaves of Yggdrasil swayed gently in the autumn breeze. Masrur gazed lovingly at her, his crimson eyes holding only her within its gaze as she chuckled happily at the small remarks he made as the two discussed the small memorable moments that had happened as of late.