Nothing had changed from the Empress Palace. Thats what Evelyn, the owner, realized the most. Something only possible if this place was cared for by meticulous care and caring hands without missing a single day.

And in this Palace, there was only one person who could enjoin it.

Everything is still the same.

I thought thats a good thing. If you come back one day, it would be nice if this place still has a familiar sight, said Fabian, looking a bit shy.

He was displeased with his gawky gesture. Even though at a time like this, it would be nice if he said something else that more heartfelt, but Fabian still had trouble dealing with his feelings.

Evelyn pondered for a moment as she watched Fabians sheepish look, wondering if he had ever been like this in the past?

It seems Adrian also loves this place.

Evelyn nodded slightly. In fact, as soon as Adrian arrived at the Empresss Palace, he ran around through the well-decorated garden until his face was flooded with sweat.

Sadly, Adrian was still in the process of detoxifying the demons poison, so he had to go to sleep immediately after being examined by Sir Philip.

He will definitely get better. Sir Philip said hes getting better now. Fabian comforted her after he noticed a slight shadow on Evelyns face. In a few days, you may find yourself sleepless while playing with your child.

I hope so, Evelyn said, smiling with hope.

If Sir Philip allows, Id like to give Adrian a black hawk.

Hell be so happy. But dont tell him in advance. If you do, there will be a scene.

Yes..I guess. Fabian agreed.

Evelyn then realized that they were both standing in front of the terrace. They forgot to sit down as they sauntered the Empress Palace, which was no different from the past.

I Evelyn blurted the end of her words. She shuddered a little, giving him a hint.

Fabian soon grasped what she was thinking. However, he seemed to hesitate for a moment without moving his steps, contrary to Evelyns thought.

Well, youre the owner of this place.

It was a new remark.

Socan you give me a cup of tea?

Fabian must have hesitated to say that. Evelyn soon nodded with a light smile. The Empress Palace was just like her memory as if she just left yesterday. Thats how Fabian took care of it. So, she was glad to serve him a cup of tea.

Please come in.

Okay.

Evelyn went to the parlor, which was right next to her bedroom. The sharp-witted Nora had already boiled the water and put it there, then she disappeared.

Fabian walked to his favorite spot. A beautiful, elegant sofa cushion, which could easily be seen outside the window, welcomed him.

Wait a minute.

There was an embarrassment engraved on Fabians face when Evelyn started unpacking her own tea sets; instead of sitting down, No, thats. sorry, I didnt mean to have you make it yourself .

He just asked if he could spend more time in the Palace, but he didnt mean to order Evelyn to unpack the tea sets. But with a graceful gesture, Evelyn brought tea, I know. and sat down in front of Fabian.

It was a good thing if she didnt have to do it herself. But sometimes, there were times when she wanted to.

The tea is fragrant. Fabian savored a sip of tea instead of saying thank you.

Evelyn did the same and said, Well, its because someone kept the tea leaves here.

Abruptly, a friendly smile smeared Fabians lips. Seeing him holding a teacup on the seat he enjoyed sitting, Evelyn suddenly felt the illusion as if she went back to the past.

Your Majesty, it seems you really like sitting there, asked Evelyn, breaking the silence.

Do I? Fabian replied casually. As he liked this spot since it was the only place he could lean on Evelyns shoulders or knees and attach his eyes on her after his exhausting daily life.

Yeah, when I looked back, I thought you were always sitting there.

Because this is the only place where I can sit side by side with you. Fabian seemed to have been quite daring in recent years. It was obvious to see him boldly spit out words that could make Evelyn blushed.

And I dont really like it when I have to sit face to face with you like this.

His blunt words made Evelyns tongue numb. Fabians honesty left her speechless. However, Evelyn wasnt brave enough to sit by Fabians side at this time. It wasnt just a matter of seating position. There were still many things that they hadnt decided yet.

Your Majesty Theres something I want to ask.

Fabian nodded when Evelyn threw out the words that she had put in her mind.

I know that youve promised that you will protect my child and me. Thats why I believe you and have come this far.

Evelyn came here, to the Imperial Palace, because she saw Fabians sincerity. However, when she returned to the Empress Palace, her mind was filled with the same worries.

You said you would make me an Empress again.

Yes. I wont change my mind. I will proceed with it as soon as possible.

And Adrian becomes the Crown Prince of this Empire.

Thats also for sure.

Adrian was still young. But Fabian also became a Crown Prince at the age of three. Now that Fabian had recognized Evelyn as his only wife, it was a natural procedure, as he said. Especially when Fabian had already publicly called Adrian the Crown Prince.

If . if Adrian becomes the Crown Prince Will he have the same growth period as Your Majesty? Evelyns blue eyes looked straight at Fabian. Leaving Fabians side anyway could not guarantee Adrians life. So, she left this choice to him. As Evelyn chose her childs life above all else, so the rest was up to Fabian.

According to the law, yes. As an imperial family, I dont know any other way either.

Hearing that, Evelyn bit her lips without realizing it.

So, I will follow your opinion.

Evelyns eyes grew wider at that moment.

I know. You dont want Adrian to grow up like me.

Blinking, Evelyn slowly closed her eyes then opened them again. Was it possible to do that?

I will deal with the rules and the backlash from the nobles.

Fabian took on a difficult burden. There would be a backlash, as it was against the roots of Imperial tradition.

That child. lets raise him, in a way that you think is right.

Are we really allowed to do that? asked Evelyn again.

Fabian nodded slowly.

If I If I say Ill raise him myself until my child grows up, is it okay?

If you think its right, sure is.

A relief enveloped Evelyn until her body went limp. Fabian thoughtfully reached out and grabbed her arm. There were some things that didnt change over time. And one of them was a moment like this when they both looked at each other through their eyes.

What I was longing for until I wanted to turn back time is the warmth of this body. Fabian gently pulled Evelyns arm and sat her beside him.

So I decided not to repeat the same mistakes. Fabian drew his own conclusions, yearning for and regretting the Empresss Palace without Evelyns presence.

Im still having a hard time. Fabian reached out and caressed Evelins hair affectionately. There are so many things I dont know how to do.

Frankly, in Evelyns eyes, the figure of Fabian who honestly acknowledged his flaws seemed unfamiliar but warm, at the same time.

In that case, I decided to ask you. Fabian stroked her hair and rubbed her cheeks softly. Evelyn was still trembling when their bodies touched like the first day they met. You can teach me how to do it together.

His eyes gleamed eagerly, and he continued, You dont have to think about the world or other peoples views. Its my part to handle it. You only need to think about the three of us.

Evelyn stared at Fabians eyes, locking her glance. If she was her old self, Evelyn wouldnt accept his offer. The Empress position was something she shouldnt have. But now Evelyn happily nodded, Sure, I will.

Yes, Thatll do.

But you have to be prepared. Now Ive become a very selfish and greedy woman, she whispered softly.

The pain of loss had taught Evelyn something previous. Now she wouldnt live her life just to be a wise Empress.

It didnt matter what her future nickname was or what people might think about her. Such things were nothing but trifles compared to the warmth that was given by the person beside her.

Fabian smiled gently, looking at her, Im glad to hear that.

Really? Youll often get into trouble because of me, Your Majesty.

Well, Its much better than you who always keep silent.

Fabian wasnt the only one who was awkward. Just as him, who reflected in Evelyns eyes, she felt the same as well.

Evelyn had never imagined before how difficult it would be to meet, marry, and live a different life with other people.

For Adrians sake, I cant keep silent.

Evelyns expression remained still. Fabian nodded at her sight, holding Evelyns hands tightly, Now, dont be afraid of anything even to me, even though Im an Emperor.

Evelyn was aware, she wouldnt be able to live freely in this Imperial family. But Fabian promised the best freedom he could give.

I wasnt afraid. Evelyn whispered and grinned, Since a long time ago I never afraid of you.

Honestly, in her previous life, Evelyn was afraid of Fabians cold expression and inhuman insight. He was like a different person than her, and Evelyn seemed unable to pursue him even though she had studied hard her whole life.

Moreover, the scariest thing was, Evelyn couldnt tell what kind of world light was in his eyes.

Instead, I was upset and angry with you. And there were moments when I felt sorry for Your Majesty.

That was the first thing Fabian had heard of since he was born. Evelyns unexpected words surprisingly comforted him.

You can do that. No, its only you in the world who can do that.

Only in Evelyns blue eyes, Fabian could live as a man, not an Emperor or a powerful King. Instead, the shining Emperors crown would only deter him from Evelyns embrace.

Your Majesty Evelyn shook a little when Fabian suddenly crawled into her arms. But he didnt stop, leaning his head on her delicate shoulder, despite the look in her eyes expressed one of surprise.

Evelyns unique body scent next to him, which was sweet and nostalgic, gave him a sense of comfort.

Hold on..

Let me stay like this for a moment. There was a tender strength in his voice as he spoke. Fabian wrapped his arms around her slender waist so that Evelyn couldnt push him away.

But

Havent you always been generous to the servants and maids who took care of the Empresss Palace? Fabian said that all of a sudden.

What does that have to do with now?

If you want me to tell the truth, its me who took care of this Palace while you were gone.

Evelyn doubted her ears. Was the Emperor asking her to show generosity in return for taking care of her Palace?

What are you saying now.

I think I deserve to get a prize, Fabian said, something that really blatant, then he buried his head deeply in Evelyns neck. Dont tell me Im worse than the Imperial Palaces servant

Evelyn tried hard to hold back her laughter.

For the first time, Fabian looked like a little boy. Somehow, she felt sorry and a little regret for always scolding Adrian for being spoiled and stubborn.

Only

Alright, then.

As was her habit, Evelyn patted Fabians head, which was resting on her shoulder gently, without realizing it.

She did the same thing when she needed to calm Adrian. But surprisingly, Fabian hugged Evelyns waist tighter, as if he liked her compliment.

Thank you for taking good care of my Palace.

Fabian nodded small, still leaning to Evelyn. The Imperial Emperor often received praise without asking. But looking at his innocent, happy face over something simple. Evelyn wanted to compliment him one more time.

Well done, Your Majesty. Evelyn caressed Fabians head softly for a while.

Fabian, with his eyes closed, enjoyed the sweet afternoon moment.