Carriage is Ready

*King Alexander*

King Alexander could hear the horse jitter and neigh. They were growing annoyed by the weight of the reins and the cold air. They wanted to go, but Alexander could not abide them just yet. He still had to give his goodbyes, and with that, he turned to meet his family.

Queen Belinda stood together with Nicoli. Her eyes were wet, likely from crying where no one could see, but otherwise, she stayed composed. Belinda even took the time to dress in her finest for him. It seemed important that she was beautiful to him the last time they saw each other, even when no one was around to see her.

“You will be back right after, I expect.” Belinda’s voice was somewhat sharper than Alexander would have expected.

She’s still angry. Alexander didn’t have to ask. But he pretended not to notice all the same. Otherwise, it just restarted the argument. Both did not seem to want to have this early in the morning.

“Eventually, my dear.” Alexander leaned in to kiss her cheek, but Belinda