Living as a widow

"Venus!" Alora exclaimed, her face lighting up as she wrapped her arms around her sister in a heartfelt embrace. "Your presence here is a delightful surprise," she confessed, gently breaking away from the hug.

"News of Prince Magnus's ill-health reached us last night," Venus explained, her eyes softening with concern. "I felt I should come and ensure you were coping well. Mother has also sent these gifts for you," she added, indicating the baskets laden with care.

"Please convey my heartfelt gratitude to Mother for her thoughtfulness. Come, let's sit and talk," Alora invited, guiding her sister towards the plush sofa. 

"Your visit means a lot to me. Last night was indeed challenging. The prince was severely afflicted by the poison," she confided, her voice barely above a whisper as they settled down side by side on the sofa. 

"Is he well now?" Venus asked.