Moon's Whisper, Heart's Echo

Epilogue-50. The End

Ease dressed as rays spilled softly through the open doorway, catching on the warm hues of the wooden beams. Tae-young leaned casually against the frame, his infant daughter nestled securely in the crook of his arm. Her tiny fist gripped the edge of his sleeve with surprising determination, her rich honey glowing. Wisps of dark curls framed her round cheeks, her curious eyes—wide and almond-shaped—watching the play of light as though it were a private performance meant only for her.

Nearby, Nandi reclined on a low cushion, her posture relaxed but betraying the exhaustion of endless sleepless nights.

Her head rested lightly against her hand, and though her eyes were half-closed, the faint curl of her lips suggested a quiet contentment.

The Crown Princess, seated beside her with a fan lazily waving, observed the scene with an expression that balanced amusement and smug satisfaction. "And to think," she began, her tone light and teasing, "you were so insistent on matchmaking for everyone but yourself. Now look at you—married, a mother, and surrounded by all this love. Truly, Nandi, you've outdone yourself."

Nandi opened one eye, rolling it in the princess's direction before letting it drift closed again. "Yes, Your Highness," she murmured, her voice with mock defeat. "You've made your point. I was terribly stubborn. The entire court must be grateful for your persistence."

The princess smirked, unfazed. "They are. I'm their gift to you, after all."

Nandi let out a soft laugh. "Doesn't the palace need you, Your Highness? Surely the Crown Prince must miss his wife's meddling."

Ignoring the jab, the princess leaned in closer, "And yet, here you are—happier than I've ever seen you." She paused, her eyes scanning the courtyard. "Though... where is Min-joon?"

The Crown Princess leaned back slightly, her lips curving into a warm smile as Min-joon barreled toward them, his voice carrying across the courtyard. "Eomma! Crown Princess!"

She lifted her hand in greeting, her fan dangling loosely from her fingers. "Well, if it isn't my favorite troublemaker."

Min-joon skidded to a stop, his arms barely containing the flowers and herbs he had collected. His cheeks were flushed from the run, and he took a moment to catch his breath before offering a bright grin. "I brought these for Eomma," he declared proudly, then turned to the Crown Princess. "And for you too, Your Highness!"

The Crown Princess arched a brow, clearly charmed. "For me?" She placed a hand over her chest in mock surprise. "You're spoiling me, Min-joon. I hope you didn't forget about your little sister, though."

Min-joon's eyes darted to the baby in Tae-young's arms, then back to the Crown Princess. He tilted his head, considering. "She's too small to like flowers," he said seriously. "But maybe when she's bigger, I'll share."

At that, the Crown Princess laughed, a soft and genuine sound. "A wise answer, young master."

Nandi knelt before her son, taking the flowers and herbs with care. Her hands lingered on the stems as she met his eager gaze. "Did I do good?" Min-joon asked, his voice full of hope.

She smiled warmly, brushing a stray lock of hair from his forehead. "You did wonderfully, my heart. Thank you."

Min-joon's grin widened, his chest puffing up slightly with pride. He turned toward the Crown Princess, his confidence brimming. "Do you like them, Your Highness?"

The Crown Princess leaned forward, pretending to inspect the flowers.

"Hmm. Exquisite choice. I'd say you have excellent taste." She winked at him.