Chapter 66
The days passed, and the air in the palace shifted. The tension that had once filled the halls was slowly fading, replaced by something warmer, something softer.
Ling had not left Ping's side since that night. Every morning, he would take her hand, pressing a kiss to her fingers as if reminding himself that she was truly there. Ping, in return, had begun to open up to him again, allowing herself to trust, to love, without the fear of losing him once more.
One afternoon, as they sat in the garden, Ping resting against Ling's chest while he gently traced circles over her hand, Mei approached with a hesitant smile.
"My lady, my king," she bowed.
Ling looked up. "What is it?"
"There is news," Mei said, glancing at Ping. "The people… they wish to celebrate the queen's return."
Ping blinked in surprise. "Celebrate?"
Mei nodded eagerly. "Yes! The palace has been cold without you, my lady. Everyone was worried, and now that you're back…" She hesitated before adding, "They also know about the child."
Ling chuckled. "It seems nothing stays a secret for long."
Ping placed a hand over her belly, feeling a mix of emotions. She had never imagined herself as a queen that people cared for. Yet, here they were, wanting to celebrate her return.
Ling, sensing her hesitation, leaned closer. "If you don't want a grand celebration, we can keep it small," he murmured. "Whatever makes you comfortable."
Ping looked up at him, his golden eyes filled with patience and understanding. She smiled softly. "No… I think I'd like that."
Mei beamed. "Then I shall make the preparations immediately!"
As she rushed off, Ling turned to Ping, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "You're truly back now, aren't you?"
Ping leaned into his touch. "Yes. And I'm never leaving again."
Ling smirked. "Good. Because I don't intend to let you go."
As the sun set, painting the sky in shades of gold and crimson, Ping knew—this was their new beginning.