Lily ended up staying the whole day since it was too late in the night. After the announcement, Chen proceeded to drink heeps amount of alcohol. He was so drunk, he couldn't even stand even on one leg. Lily was watching him making sure he wouldn't bump anywhere. He eventually knocked out and she had to call for the servants to get him a room.
The following morning, he apologized with a remorseful tone and the three of them, including Anne, made their way to the same bridge from yesterday.
"Do you really have to go?" Anne said with tears forming at the corner of her eyes threatening to stream down.
"Yes, you know how it is, deary. I'm happy to see you be so happy yesterday and fully relieved you found someone to protect you. Though it's hard to see each other, it's not like I'll never see you again." Lily said reluctantly.
"I know, but..." I see only see you once in a year and only on your own accord!
Chen, on the other hand, was quiet. He felt a little conflicted.
"Then I'm leaving," Lily said firmly, trying to leave no openings for any wavering.
"No!" Anne started bawling her eyes out, grabbing Lily's leg. T-T
"Anne goodness, gracious! It's not like I'm the only person in this world!" Lily tried to tug her leg back. "Now hurry up and stand, you are a noble lady for god sake!"
"But y-you're.....my..... only true friend!" Anne pleaded, thinking back to all the many parties she's been to, all those fake people. No one her age has kept such sincerity and pure nature as Lily. They only mingled because they have ulterior motives; there is no such thing as a relationship based on true friendship. Anne felt lonely. Having Lily around every once in a while was like breathing fresh air in a fire.
Lily frowned and firmly said. "You have Chen."
"..." Anne continued to wail. "He's his majesty's friend!" That was the best excuse she could give!
"..." Chen didn't say anything, and he's still being used as a scapegoat? Look at those crocodile tears!
As he stood there, looking at this unbearable scene happening, he finally decided to speak up. "Anne, you're making it hard for her. You're about to be the queen of this nation; let's be courteous."
"I know you don't want her to leave either!" Anne retorted glaring at him. 'Can't you see I'm doing this for your sake?!' She thought.
After she marries, she was worried that Chen would be all alone. She no longer will be outside of the palace as much as she is now, accompanying him. They both had their duties to fulfill, but he was alone since the beginning, while she at least had his majesty. Anne's heart broke not only for Chen but for Lily too. She was the only person who knew both of their stories and it would only be best if they would be happy together instead. Who would understand their hardships other than each other? They better thank me in the future! Anne tried her hardest to become their Cupid.
"I---" I knew it, I should've stayed quiet, this girl's tongue is one to fear. Chen shuts his mouth up.
Lily didn't know what to do. She truly liked staying here. Maybe just one more week? Until Anne's wedding day? But will Aunty agree to help me out? She thought seriously with her expression slightly darkened. It's fine, I'll pay the price for my decision. It is a very important occasion for the only few people she could call her friend.
After a long inner conflict, Lily finally replied, "Very well, Anne, you are so spoiled, dear. I might as well stay to help you form proper manners before this country is doomed when you become queen.....but, I'll have to send another letter in hopes if I can stay."
Anne stopped crying instantly. "Really?!"
Lily sighed. "Yes, really, at least until your wedding day."
"Goodness! I don't know what to say. I'm so happy! There are so much to do, and so many places to go together!" Anne hugged her tightly. Lily sighed helplessly and returned her embrace.
"Anne, you don't even have time now that you need to prepare for the wedding and preparations to become queen...." Chen intercepted, but as soon as he saw Anne's facial expression, he faltered. She gave him a nasty look. "...You guys can most likely have tea at the very least."
"Geez, Chen, you're such a mood killer," Anne said with a disappointed expression. Little did they know, Anne also took this to her advantage. "but tea is still better than having Lily leave. I guess you'll have to show her around as well as accommodate her then."
"Yes, yes, I know I'm strict---—" Chen was expecting the typical phrase she would say only to be dazed at her statement. "What?" Who's doing what now?
"Well, the palace is stuffy as well as busy with all these preparations like you said. I don't want her to be neglected, and well you look at the time, I have to go back now! Remember to send Lily to the palace every day for tea, or else I won't forgive you!" Anne said as she ran towards the palace. "Don't forget to show her around and let her have the best time of her life!"
"..." This girl, always going on her own pace and now she's flying away leaving him behind. His shoulders drooped, and his heart clenched. The wind blew towards his direction with the trees swaying, and the sky was clear as it can be, giving him a very lonely look.
Lily looked at his back as he stared at Anne running. After a brief silence, she grabbed his hand.
Chen jerked at the sudden movement and before he could say anything. Lily led him to the opposite direction towards town.
"I'm inexperienced in this, so you would have to lead me instead." She slightly blushed, lowering her head.
"What?" Chen answered with a blank expression. He didn't get what she was saying.
"Chen, Let's go on a date!" she shouted and looked up into his eyes as both of them sped walk to town.
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