The next morning, Fang awoke to find three maids standing silently before her, holding ornate trays filled with elegant garments and sparkling accessories.
Startled, she sat up. "What's all this?"
Before the maids could reply, the Queen entered gracefully.
Fang immediately stood and bowed. "My Queen… what are these? They look so expensive."
The Queen chuckled softly. "They're not. Just a small token of gratitude for taking care of my son."
Her voice softened. Fang offered a gentle smile in return.
"My Queen, I should be the one thanking you—and His Majesty—for welcoming me into the palace. I've been meaning to express my gratitude to him too, but… he keeps saying he's busy."
The Queen stepped forward and patted her shoulder. "You'll have time for that."
She nodded to the maids, who quietly took their leave. Once they were alone, the Queen led Fang to sit beside her.
A brief silence passed before the Queen asked gently, "Fang, where are your parents?"
Fang froze for a moment. Her smile wavered, but she answered calmly. "They're no longer in my life. They… hurt me a lot when I was young. But everything changed after His Majesty saved me. He's cared for me ever since."
The Queen reached out, holding her hand tenderly. "I'm so sorry, child. That must've been painful."
Fang gave a faint smile and lowered her gaze.
The Queen studied her for a moment. "Do you have someone in your heart, Fang?"
Caught off guard, Fang blinked. Her heart pounded. "I… My Queen, I don't. Except His Majesty. He's the only one I've ever considered family."
The Queen's eyes sparkled with a knowing glint. "And what do you think of Syaoran?"
Fang glanced away, flustered. "He watched me grow up. I'm sure he still sees me as a child."
The Queen sighed and stood. "Get ready and join us for breakfast."
"Yes, My Queen," Fang said softly.
After she left, Fang sat alone, her hand lightly pressed to her chest. Why is my heart beating so fast? What is this feeling…?
—
Outside in the corridor, the Queen walked alongside her maid.
"When I see them together," she mused, "they feel like a perfect match. But Fang insists she isn't interested. What should I do? Only she seems able to handle my son."
The maid smiled. "Perhaps you should ask His Majesty. What if… he already has feelings for her?"
The Queen turned sharply. "Why would you say that?"
The maid leaned in. "Taio said His Majesty has been calling her name in his sleep. And he hasn't slept well in days."
The Queen's eyes widened. "Why didn't anyone tell me this sooner? Come—we're going to his room."
The maid giggled as they hurried off.
—
When they entered Syaoran's chambers, he stood immediately and bowed. "Mother. You're here early. Is something wrong?"
She waved her hand casually. "Can't a mother visit her son anymore?"
"Of course you can," he said, managing a smile. "You're welcome any time."
"Good." She sat down and gestured for him to do the same. "Syaoran, you're of age now. I think it's time you considered a bride."
His eyes widened in alarm. "Mother! It's too soon. I have no plans for marriage yet."
"Then tell me honestly—do you love someone?"
He stiffened. Reaching for a glass of water, he tried to steady himself.
"I… I don't love anyone," he muttered.
The Queen raised a brow. "Is it Fang?"
Syaoran choked, coughing and spilling water.
"M-Mother! Why would you ask that?"
She smirked. "I've seen how you look at her. And if I asked Fang, I'm sure she'd give the same flustered denial."
She and the maid burst into laughter, leaving Syaoran red-faced and speechless.
"What's so funny?! Mother!"
The Queen rose with a gentle smile. "Think it over. When you're ready, give me your answer—yes or no."
Then, still laughing softly, she walked out.
—
That Evening
Dinner was quiet at first. Syaoran and Fang sat across from each other, occasionally stealing glances.
The Queen watched them both with amusement. "Let's eat," she announced.
Halfway through the meal, Syaoran hesitated. Then, nervously, he picked up a piece of meat and placed it on Fang's plate.
She looked at him, surprised.
"You like this, right?" he asked quietly.
Fang nodded, cheeks pink, and took a bite. He lowered his gaze, pretending not to notice her smile.
The Queen's eyes sparkled with delight, but she said nothing.
"My son," she asked lightly, "how are the festival preparations coming along?"
"They're complete," Syaoran replied. "Security has been reinforced."
"Excellent."
Fang seized the moment. "My Queen, may I ask something?"
"Of course, child."
"His Majesty promised to show me the city. May I accompany him during the festival?"
Before Syaoran could answer, the Queen replied, smiling, "Of course. Go and enjoy yourselves."
Fang beamed with joy.
Syaoran, however, sat frozen—caught somewhere between disbelief and the growing warmth in his chest.