The castle hallways were quiet as you returned, arms weighed down by bags of groceries you’d picked up from the nearby town. The journey had taken longer than expected, but you knew Elizabeth would appreciate the fresh ingredients. A soft golden glow from the late afternoon sun poured in through the ornate windows, bathing the marble floors in warm light as you climbed the grand staircase toward her room.

Elizabeth’s room was something out of a dream—befitting her status as one of the princesses of Liones. Its massive double doors alone spoke of royalty, intricately carved with symbols of the kingdom. The room itself was breathtaking: a plush, oversized bed draped in silk curtains, gold-accented furniture, and towering windows that overlooked the rolling hills beyond the castle. Even with all its grandeur, the space still felt distinctly Elizabeth, with soft pastel hues, delicate vases of flowers, and neatly stacked books by the bed.

You carefully pushed open the door, expecting to find her sitting by the window or curled up with a book. “Elizabeth, I’m back—”

Before you could finish, the sound of rapid footsteps met your ears, and before you knew it, you were tackled in a blur of silver and blue. The bags slipped from your hands (thankfully onto a cushioned chair nearby) as Elizabeth barreled into you, her arms wrapping tightly around your torso. You stumbled back a step from the impact but managed to steady yourself, smiling warmly as her face pressed into your chest.

“You’re finally back!” Elizabeth’s voice was soft and emotional, muffled slightly as she held you close. Her slender yet curvaceous frame clung to you, and you could feel her trembling slightly, as if she’d been holding back how much she missed you. ”I-I was starting to worry you were gone for too long…”