Chapter Two
The plain white stationery, lacking even a pattern or engraving, was a sign that the letter had been sent from my husband at work. He’d used supplies from the office of the Royal Order of Knights in the palace to write to me.
“My apologies for not being able to return home in days,” he wrote.“Are you having any issues at the house? Or has anything been bothering you recently? If so, please don’t hesitate to consult someone. I don’t want you to worry by yourself. No one would be upset with you for relying on them. From now on, don’t try to solve everything alone, and instead get a calm, third-party opinion on things.”
“If that doesn’t help, then I don’t mind if you consult with me. As you know, I cannot leave work for the time being, but I can at least contact you in the meantime. The distance between us is walkable, so I could even send someone to aid you. Please, don’t even consider trying to solve everything by yourself.”
Even the very start of his letter was nagging. It was as if he’d already decided that I was going to run into trouble.Why must he be such a worrywart? I haven’t done anything! I’m just living my life as usual. My deadlines are approaching, so I’m having to balance societal duties alongside my writing. I don’t have time for anything else.
His letter continued.“Everything is fine on my side. I’m eating and sleeping very well, so no need to worry. Thank you very much for sending me clothes and meals. The epi bread with bacon and cheese was delicious, and the deep-fried bread filled with meat was very popular with my subordinates. Was that one your idea? The Captain ran over when he heard about it, and we all ate together. Prince Severin also caught wind of the food and was upset that he hadn’t been included, so won’t you make more next time?”
Our chefs were the ones who made those, but I’m glad you all liked them. And His Highness is always eating delicious meals—why must he be so childish? All right, fine, I’ll ask for more next time.
Lately, things had felt like back when we’d been engaged. Lord Simeon and I had exchanged letters just like this, and even now, my husband’s unchanging thoughtfulness br