Childhood - bonus chapter 3

The year they were nine, Abigail had thrown herself into the prince’s arms upon his arrival, as she did every year. This year, instead of saying "You're here" like she did every year before, she nuzzled into his neck and said, "I've missed you," very softly. He was flustered but pleased by this new reaction to his arrival.

"I've missed you, too, Wildflower," he replied softly, rubbing her back.

"Come on," she said, grabbing his hand. "It's starting to rain. Let's go inside. I have your gift waiting, and Hannah is making us tea." He followed her willingly, but not before grabbing her birthday gift from his bags.

She had given him a painting she had done based on the way he had described Eswen Keep to her in his letters. While he didn't care much for his home, he adored the painting simply because she had made it. Even his father admitted it was a good likeness. Funny enough, he had gifted her art supplies. Upon opening them, she had again flung herself into his arms, declaring him