MAYA, my love.

CHAPTER 22

The door to the room swung open, revealing Elizabeth standing dramatically at the center. She was visibly upset, her frustration clear as she met his gaze. The king, seated with his customary amused expression, looked up with a knowing smile.

"Lizzie, my dear, you've returned! How I've missed you!" the king exclaimed with a touch of urgency, sensing the storm brewing.

"I have indeed returned, though it has been several days," Elizabeth began, her tone tinged with exasperation. "First, you fell ill due to your recklessness. I distinctly warned you against visiting that plague-stricken area. You must remember, you are not as youthful as you once were. Then, you were confined to your quarters for weeks. I forgave you upon your recovery, and now you seem intent on evading me under the pretext of work. What work, pray tell? You are too occupied to spend time with me now?"

"Lizzie."

"Do not speak to me as if I am the same forgiving little sister of old. I shall not tolerate such disregard this time."

"Dearest Lizzie, I am most sincerely sorry," the king said, stepping forward and patting her head. "I have responsibilities that demand my attention, and I must be accountable to my people. And 'too occupied to spend time with you'? Such a notion is far from the truth. Have you been feeling lonely?"

Elizabeth's eyes filled with tears at his tender words. He was her only remaining family, her pillar of support. Though she was usually composed, her concern for him was palpable.

"I forbid you to die before me. I will go first. What would I do all alone?" she implored, her voice almost complaining as she hugged him like a child.

The king's stern demeanor softened, revealing his deep affection. "My precious little bean, do not worry. I am in good health and shall remain so for at least another two years," he said, patting her head once more. "And let us not forget, you are fifteen years my junior. How could you even entertain the idea of going first? It is simply unreasonable."

"You're unreasonable," Elizabeth replied, her tears now subsiding. "Do sit down; there is much I wish to discuss."

"Very well."

"So much to tell. So much to know" Elizabeth said humming. "Oh. Have you met John yet? He has been most concerned about your health and has made quite a commotion. His sense of responsibility, though commendable, worries me greatly. He mirrors you in his tendency to overextend himself and seems incapable of relaxation. I wish he were a bit more carefree rather than the diligent young man who persistently hounds me with work. Just today, I finished the reports he has been pestering me about."

"He has indeed grown into a fine young man. I am confident he will uphold my legacy with distinction. Our country may very well have a promising future thanks to him."

"I know he is exceptional, but I long for him to enjoy life more fully. My concern is that he may end up sacrificing too much of himself and not pursuing his own happiness. Passionate individuals often exhaust themselves, and I fear he may follow that path."

"Lizzie..." the king said, his voice laden with concern.

"I am aware. That is why I am resolved to ensure that both you and John learn to be a bit more tender with yourselves. We are granted but one life, and it is only fitting we allow ourselves some indulgence," she said with a playful tone, aiming to lighten the mood. "Come now. I have procured a great many delights. Allow me to introduce you to the pleasures of indulgence. Follow me, dear brother."

She gently tugged at his sleeve, reminiscent of a child's playful insistence, and led him out of the room. The king, familiar with his sister's determined nature, followed with a smile. He cherished these moments with her, which evoked fond memories of a simpler, carefree time.

"Lizzie, do slow your pace."