Prince Max sniffled, clutching a wooden toy horse as he gazed out the window. Though the morning was bright and promising, his heart felt heavy. Today should have been a celebration, but instead, the absence of his father left the day hollow.
"I wish Papa was here," he whispered, voice trembling.
Queen Eleanor[/@ch_2], regal yet gentle, kneels beside her son. Sunlight glimmers on her jeweled gown as she brushes a stray curl from his face. The room is filled with the gentle scent of lavender and old books.]
"My darling Max, why are you so sad on your special day?" she asks, wrapping her arms around him in a warm embrace.
"Because I’m a sad little prince. Papa is gone, and I miss him too much to be happy," Max replies, burying his face in her shoulder.
"Your father would be so proud of you today. What if we make this the happiest birthday ever, together?"
Queen Eleanor[/@ch_2] helps Max step into his miniature royal uniform, complete with polished buttons and a velvet sash.]
"You look every bit the brave little prince," she says, fastening his sash and straightening his collar.
"Do you think Papa will like my uniform when he comes back?"
"He’ll be enchanted, just as I am. And he’ll want to hear all about your adventures today," she assures him, smoothing his hair with a smile.
Max enters hesitantly, his uniform shining. The crowd parts as Queen Eleanor leads him to the center, where a grand cake awaits. Trumpeters play a cheerful fanfare, and the room erupts in applause.
"Today, we celebrate our wonderful prince—may joy and courage follow him always!"
Queen Eleanor[/@ch_2] guides Max to a quiet alcove by a stained-glass window. She presents him with a small, leather-bound book embossed with the royal crest. Outside, the sun glows through jewel-toned glass, painting their faces with colors.]
"This belonged to your father when he was your age," she explains softly.
"Can we read it together?"
"Of course, my dear. And every time you miss him, we can read his stories and remember he loves you very much," she promises, opening the book as they sit side by side.
Max[/@ch_1] sits with his mother, smiling as she reads aloud from his father’s stories.]
"I think I can be a happy little prince again, Mama," he says, curling against her side.
"You already are, my darling. And when Papa returns, we’ll tell him all about your brave, joyful heart," Queen Eleanor replies, pressing a gentle kiss to his forehead.
