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Gilbert & you.
xx.
Kingdom of Prussia.
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The birds chirped their usual symphonies, standing atop the tree branches, sauntering across the vineyards that stretched from one end to the other. Plants and leaves unfurled from the vines, reaching out into the metal stands that supported them. Behind those vineyards stood the small palace made for leisure. Its soft yellow color suited the soft blue sky with the glowing, luminescent sun.
In the middle of the garden, stood a flowing fountain, its water spewing out from the center. The liquid shined crystal clear, like little jewels were flying out from the center. Sometimes you’d notice some of the water land onto the pastel-colored flower bushes that outlined the hexagon platform in which the fountain was set on. The platform then connected to a grand staircase reaching up to the palace, elevated atop two large staircases.
Periodically between the bushes, would stand nude statues, holding various objects, and standing in various poses.
It was a beautiful place.
Your light colored yellow and white dress dragged across the gravel, gloved arm locked with your husband’s, Gilbert. Taking a stroll through the Sanssouci garden, absorbing in the nature and observing the serenity that lingered in the air.
A small smile graced your lips while gazing around, forever grateful for such a blessed day.
“Isn’t it so lovely today?”
You asked, sighing joyously into the air. Gilbert nodded beside you as the same smiled curved on his lips.
“It is, darling.”
He always looked so handsome in his usual uniform, all so formal and charming. It made you feel quite warm in your heart, and you wondered if he felt the same with your silky dress, laced designs that decorated the hem and skirt. Jewels hung around your neck and wrists, which complimented your off- shouldered top, its puffiness expressed nobility.
You two leisurely strolled around, saying not a word. The silence was mutually desired though.
It wasn’t everyday that you two got to saunter around the garden of the Sanssouci Palace so peacefully.
Gilbert of course, had his campaigns around Europe. Fighting here and there. He led Prussia to its “awesomeness” but he also led a military role. Every time he went out on expeditions, you stayed in your palaces, walking around your gardens, praying to the heavens that he’d come back safely.
Every time he did, you’d sprint into his arms and squeeze him tightly.
Every time he didn’t, you’d remain by his side until the last of his wounds healed. This was done when the Napoleonic Wars were waged across the continent.
Those coalitions were so worrisome, most nights you would receive an unpleasant dose of insomnia.
Barely was it, that you got to achieve a good nights rest.
However, for now, both of you were safe in the hands of this garden, surrounded by the calming nature.
“Would you like to take a seat?”
Gilbert suddenly asked, eyeing one of the benches placed neatly between two bushes.
In response, you nodded, waving away your running thoughts.
“Of course.”
Taking a seat, your arms unlocked, you returned your hands back to your lap. But Gilbert seemed to long for your touch more, he took your gloved hand into his, and interlocked fingers.
So both of you sat there, in love and silence, listening as the birds chirp, and listening as the fountain flowed.
Hoping, that maybe this moment will never end in the garden of the Sanssouci Palace.