To my sweetest daughter,
There is so much to share with you, but the most important is of a surprise visit from two Saden princes. Both tall and dashingly handsome. Don’t tell your father or anyone else I said that. How dare I say such a thing about a Saden.
One, Prince Iann, has visited far more places over the past year than I have my entire life. He was much too kind to be a prince. I think you two would have found comfort in each other. In many ways he reminded me of you. He also stayed in your bed, which not many can claim a prince has been in their bed.
But enough about them, I miss you my sweet girl. I truly wish I could take your place. I know the life of a Fox and it’s not one I wanted to ever subject you to. If you ever find yourself feeling homesick, just know you are always welcome home, no matter what.
P.S. I may have some enemies there and apologize in advance for any cruelty heading your way because of me.
P.S.S. Your father says hello and to not strain yourself, or your breathing condition will have its way with you.
We love you,
Mom
The warning of enemies is a little too late, but I appreciate the sentiment. Starting to prune, I wipe my remaining tears, get out of the tub, and dry myself off. The bracelet goes back on my wrist before slipping into a silk nightgown.
A light knock comes from the door of the main room. I’m certain it’s Vera, but when I open it, I’m happy to find Iann.
“I wanted to make sure you were okay,” he says sheepishly, seeming unsure if he should have come here.
“I am.” The Queen said to stay in my room and not end up in another’s bed, but she didn’t mention anything about someone else in mine. “Would you like to come in?”
He dips his head and enters my bland quarters as I shut the door behind him.
“How is Chana?” He takes a seat on a nearby chair.
“She still hasn’t woken. And your servant?”
“No, not yet.”
I pour us each a glass of water and I sit at the edge of my bed, facing him. “Can I ask you something?”
“Anything.”
I think of all the things I could share with him but there is only one thing I desire right now. “Will you stay with me tonight?”
He sets the glass down on a bedside table. “If that’s what you want.”
I get up and feel his eyes follow me across the room where I blow out my lanterns and set my glass on a stand. When it’s dark I make my way to him and slip a hand in his, pulling him to his feet.
He grazes his nose along mine and just holds me. It’s all I need right now. All I crave is to be held by him.
We move to the bed and tuck ourselves beneath the covers. My bed is far smaller than his but it’s just enough for two. Our heads stay close, foreheads resting against each other.
With a fingertip he traces unseen lines over my body starting at my head and moving down to my thigh. “Can we stay like this all night?” I whisper. It’s the calmest feeling I’ve ever known.
“Yes.” His finger comes back up preparing for another lap around.
“Are you happy, Iann?”
“Yes.” His answer makes me smile. “Even more when my name slips from your lips.”
The beating of my heart speeds up. We tease each other, our lips drawing in on one another’s but never fully connecting.
“Can you tell me about your greatest adventure?” I continue our little question game.
“No,” he says flatly but then gives me his dazzling smile. “I have had many adventures, but I honestly don’t think the greatest one has happened yet.”
