“I hope you’ll grow accustomed to palace life, Lady Sachiko,” Natsu said, pausing to gather a few blossoms.
“Do you think I’ll be here for long?” Sachiko murmured, almost to herself.
Natsu’s expression softened. “Who knows? I’ve seen many women come and go. It’s always a little sad to see them leave, especially in tears.”
“But…how do they end up leaving?” Sachiko wondered aloud.
“By not following Prince Shinichi’s orders,” Natsu replied calmly.
“Not following his orders…” Sachiko repeated quietly, remembering the Prince’s warning. “Is that why he emphasized it?”
“Certainly.”
A moment passed, then Sachiko asked, “What other things does the Prince like?”
Natsu smiled knowingly. “That, my lady, is for you to discover.”
As the day wore on, Sachiko found herself voicing an unexpected request.
“Natsu-san,” she called softly.
“What is it, Lady Sachiko?” Natsu replied.
“May I…may I cook the Prince’s dinner?”
Natsu stared, stunned. “What did you just say?”
Sachiko took a deep breath, her voice steadying. “I want to cook for the Prince.”
“Uh…Young Lady, that’s hardly a task you should be doing,” Natsu replied, clearly hesitant.
“Please, Natsu-san!”
“You’ve been trained in cooking?” Natsu asked skeptically. “A lady of your standing usually learns flower arranging and tea ceremonies, not cooking.”
“Well…erm…I’ve had a bit of training!” Sachiko admitted hastily.
Natsu raised an eyebrow. “Are you certain this is what you want to do?”
“Yes! I’d be delighted if you’d let me try,” Sachiko insisted.
YOU ARE READING
A Love Crowned by Destiny
Historical FictionWhen Yamashina Sachiko, a gentle soul from a noble family, becomes unexpectedly engaged to Crown Prince Shinichi, her life transforms overnight. Caught between palace traditions and the Prince's unpredictable charm, Sachiko must learn to balance he...
