Jian stood quietly nearby, watching the Emperor sob as he held his beloved mate in his arms. It was such a heartbreaking sight that Jian didn't know what to say. He had only just met his father, yet seeing the man's relief and grief at having Clara back made something ache quietly inside his chest.
After some time, the Emperor slowly rose from beside the bed, carefully keeping Clara in his arms. He held her as though he was afraid to let go, then carried her out of the spaceship.
By the time they stepped outside, more soldiers and dignitaries had already arrived. The moment they saw the Emperor carrying his unconscious mate, they immediately dropped to their knees.
The Emperor looked over them, his eyes still slightly red from crying, but his voice was once again filled with the authority of a ruler.
"Today marks a joyous day. A day when my beloved mate and my youngest son have finally returned to us. Let us celebrate this reunion."
