Her gaze turned to Princess Louise beside Karl, and an even gentler smile appeared on her face as she took the princess's hand. "And with Your Highness here to keep you company—well-read and sensible, kind and considerate—Mama worries even less that you'll be lonely or have no one to care for you. This castle has gained so much more life and warmth too."
Karl looked at his mother, his heart filled with reluctance and gratitude.
He stepped forward and gently embraced her, saying in a low voice, "Mama, thank you for all your support. Take care on the road. After you return to the south, you must look after yourself too. I have everything here. You needn't worry."
Louise also stepped forward and embraced Lady Eileen, saying softly, "My lady, may your journey be smooth. We will miss you."
Lady Eileen hugged the princess back, then withdrew half a step. Her gaze moved between her son and her future daughter-in-law, her face carrying the meaningful smile unique to someone who had been through it all before.
She leaned a little closer, her voice lowered, carrying a trace of barely perceptible teasing and deep expectation as she said in a volume only the three of them could hear, "Karl, Your Highness... seeing the two of you getting along so well truly makes Mama happy."
She paused, encouragement and suggestion in her eyes. "But look, Carnford is growing more and more prosperous now, and the castle is looking more and more proper. It's just... it seems to be missing a bit of the true bustle of a 'home.'"
Her smile deepened, and her loving gaze swept over them both. "Perhaps... you could also consider adding another little member to this family? A darling little one, babbling their first words, toddling as they