Son of the Forgotten Princess | hp x lp

Chapter 2: Firsts

Athanasia watched with joy in her heart as Vasileios took his wobbly first steps across the room. His chubby little legs moved as quickly as they could, and each step was a triumph for the young prince. She couldn't help but clap her hands in excitement, encouraging him with a warm smile.

"That's it, Vasileios!" She cheered softly. "You're doing so well, my little prince."

Vasileios giggled with delight, his bright blue-green jeweled eyes sparkling with happiness. He stumbled a bit but managed to stay on his feet, his determination evident even at such a young age. Athanasia was filled with pride as she watched her son's progress.

As Vasileios continued to practice his newfound skill, Athanasia couldn't help but reflect on how far they had come since that fateful night in the palace garden. She had never imagined that she would become a mother under such mysterious circumstances, but she wouldn't have it any other way.

With Lily's help, Athanasia had managed to create a warm and loving environment for Vasileios in the secluded corners of the Ruby Palace. They had celebrated many firsts together - his first smile, his first word, and now his first steps. Each moment was a precious gift, and Athanasia treasured them all.

As the day turned into evening, Athanasia scooped Vasileios into her arms and cradled him gently. "It's time for bed, my little prince," she whispered to him. She carried him to his soft crib, tucking him in with a gentle kiss on the forehead.

Vasileios yawned and closed his eyes, drifting off into a peaceful sleep. Athanasia watched over him for a moment, her heart filled with love and gratitude. She was merely excited for every milestone he would have.

"Ma!" Her heart jumped when she heard him speak.

"What did you say, darling?" Athanasia's eyes widened in astonishment as she heard Vasileios utter his first word. Her heart swelled with pride and joy at this milestone. She had been eagerly awaiting this moment, and hearing her son's sweet voice filled her with an overwhelming sense of love.

"Ma," Vasileios repeated, his tiny voice filled with innocence. He reached out his little arms towards Athanasia, as if seeking comfort and assurance.

Tears welled up in Athanasia's eyes as she scooped him up into her arms. "Yes, my darling," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. "I'm your mama, and you're my precious son."

Vasileios giggled in response, his bright eyes filled with happiness. Athanasia held him close, rocking him gently back and forth. It was a moment she would cherish forever, the first time her son had called her "ma."

As Vasileios settled back into his crib, Athanasia watched over him, feeling a profound sense of love and gratitude. She knew that their journey together was just beginning, and she couldn't wait to experience all the wonders and challenges of motherhood with her beloved Vasileios by her side.

"Goodnight, my little prince," she whispered, placing a gentle kiss on his forehead. "Sweet dreams."

As the morning light filtered into the room, Athanasia couldn't help but marvel at the profound bond she had formed with her son, Vasileios. It was a love unlike any other she had experienced, and she cherished every moment they spent together.

Vasileios's giggles filled the room as he babbled in his adorable, incomprehensible language, "Ma! Wuv!"

Athanasia couldn't help but join in, her heart brimming with joy at the sound of his laughter.

"I love you as well, Vasil," she replied with a warm smile, using the affectionate nickname she had given him. It was a name that held a special place in her heart, just like he did.

Their days were filled with simple yet precious moments - playtime, bedtime stories, and Vasileios's growing curiosity about the world around him. Athanasia was determined to give him the love and care he deserved, even in the midst of the secrets and mysteries that surrounded their lives in the Ruby Palace.

As she held her son close, Athanasia couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment and happiness she had never known before. She had found her purpose in being Vasileios's mother, and she was ready to face whatever would happen to protect what they have.

The days continued to pass, each one filled with new discoveries and adventures for Athanasia and Vasileios. Athanasia had never been happier, and she cherished every moment with her beloved son. Vasileios, in turn, continued to grow and thrive under her loving care.

Their secret life in the secluded corners of the Ruby Palace was peaceful and filled with love. Lily, their loyal nanny, played an essential role in ensuring Vasileios's well-being and happiness. The three of them formed a tight-knit family, bound by their shared love for the young prince.

Vasileios's bright blue-green jeweled eyes sparkled with curiosity as he explored the world around him. He was a quick learner, picking up new words and concepts with ease. Athanasia took great joy in teaching him about the palace, its history, and the world beyond its walls, even though they could never venture outside.

As Vasileios approached his second birthday, but first birthday with them, Athanasia couldn't help but feel a mixture of emotions. She was excited to celebrate his milestone, but she also knew that the secrets of his birth and the mystery of the vial with the potion still loomed over them. The need for caution and secrecy was ever-present, regardless of the fact that this palace was forgotten. Lily and Athanasia want to protect Vasileios.

On the morning of Vasileios's birthday, Athanasia woke up early to prepare a special surprise for her son. She had managed to gather a few small toys and a beautifully decorated cake with the help of Lily, who had discreetly acquired the items from the market outside the palace.

Due to the fact that Lily was the only maid of the Ruby Palace that Athanasia learned how to cook food. So she had also asked for food ingredients so she could cook a small feast for them. She likes cooking with Lily the most.

When Vasileios finally woke up, his eyes widened with wonder at the sight of the cake and the toys. Athanasia couldn't contain her excitement as she lit the candles on the cake, and they sang a heartfelt "Happy Birthday" to him. Vasileios clapped his hands and blew out the candles with a triumphant giggle.

It was a day filled with laughter, games, and joy. Athanasia watched her son's eyes light up with delight as he opened his presents, his innocent laughter filling the room. It was a celebration of love and family, a reminder of the bond they had forged against all odds.

As night fell and Vasileios drifted off to sleep, tired but happy, Athanasia couldn't help but reflect on their journey together. She knew that challenges and uncertainties still lay ahead, but as long as they had each other, they would face them with courage and love.

With a contented heart, Athanasia whispered, "Happy birthday, my little prince. I love you more than anything in this world." And with those words, she knew that their secret life in the Ruby Palace would continue, filled with endless love and the promise of a brighter future.