Chapter 1237:
Louise’s gaze was frosty, her eyes narrowing slightly as she pierced him with her look. “You’d do well to hope for Chesney or Garret to claim the throne.”
Stung and puzzled, Edward hastened after her, his questions tumbling out in a rapid flurry. “Wait! How can you be so certain of your victory? Spell out your plans, your chances of success. It’s madness to expect my help when your prospects are so uncertain. Louise! We need to discuss this thoroughly!”
They eventually settled into a secluded corner, where their conversation deepened, unraveling layers of strategy until the clock struck 1 a.m.
After nearly five exhausting hours, Edward leaned back, a newfound respect forming as he realized the relentless ambition that drove Louise.
Later, as Louise searched for Elyse, she inadvertently stirred her from sleep.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to disturb your rest. I just needed to feel your embrace,” Louise whispered, her voice heavy with exhaustion.
Elyse, still groggy from sleep, pulled Louise into a comforting hold. “Where have you been all this time? You look utterly spent.”
Louise wrapped her arms around Elyse, seeking comfort in her warmth. “I’ve secured my first supporter,” she murmured. “I’ve told him I’m vying for the throne. I shared my vision of leading our nation with strategy and diplomacy.”
She paused, then added with a trace of vulnerability, “But honestly, I’m unsure. What will people think of me if I fail? How will they see me?”
Elyse’s voice was calm and soothing as she reassured her, “Ambition isn’t a flaw, Louise. And if you falter, the people will still see you as a princess of great courage.”
Louise felt the warmth of Elyse’s words fill her. Nestled in her embrace, she whispered, “So, you’re supporting me, too?”
Elyse nodded with certainty. “Of course! Chesney and Garret don’t stand a chance. The throne belongs to you.”
Louise fell silent for a moment, her thoughts heavy. “But what if I fail to revive the economy or defend against foreign threats? What if I can’t protect my people?”
Elyse responded with unwavering confidence, “The economy thrives under your leadership and the support of your people, guided by the wisdom of local governments. As for foreign threats, that requires strong military and strategic alliances. Protecting your people will come naturally once you take the throne.”
Louise nodded thoughtfully. “I suppose I should aim for that.”
Elyse gave her a reassuring pat. “I’m with you every step of the way. Don’t fear the future, Louise. It holds so much promise.”
Elyse’s words wrapped around Louise like a warm blanket, easing her worries and filling her with a sense of security.
Morning arrived, and Elyse woke to find Louise still fast asleep. She dressed quietly and headed to breakfast. As she opened her door, she saw Jayden standing in the hallway. Feeling ready to face him, thanks to Louise’s mediation the day before, she smiled.
. . .