Chapter 187

Maxi gazed down at the flower before gingerly touching the delicate petals with her fingertip. It was as soft as a feather. Holding it gently as if it were a treasure, she recalled a moment from a long time ago.

Riftan had once given her a bouquet of wildflowers. She saw him in her mind's eye, drenched from the rain as he presented it to her. Without warning, her heart lurched painfully.

Was his first impulse at the sight of beautiful flowers always to pick them for her?

"Thank you… for bringing this to me," Maxi managed to choke out.

"There is no need to thank me, my lady," Gabel replied with a gentle smile.

Though she wanted to smile back, her face refused to listen. Instead, she lowered her head to hide her tears. Her anxieties, fears, and sadness melted away, replaced by an all-consuming longing. Still, at that moment, even the sharp pain felt sweet. Gently, Maxi pressed her lips to the petals.