Serena's eyes widened a little, and then a bright smile bloomed on her face.
Her chest felt warm, like the sunlight had suddenly found her heart.
"Thank you," she said softly, full of happiness.
Lord Maximus said nothing more, but there was a faint smile on his lips as he guided her to the chair beside him and made her sit.
Vaelen watched the scene silently, a small smile forming on his face.
It was still a little awkward between the two, the father who didn't know how to express his love and the daughter who didn't know how to reach him.
But even so, it was a good start.
Vaelen hoped things would slowly get better. They deserved that.
Soon, the servants began bringing food. The soft aroma of roasted meat and warm bread filled the hall. Serena reached for her spoon, and Vaelen was just about to take his first bite when...
A loud voice echoed from outside.
"His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen have arrived!"
Everyone froze.
