AUTHOR'S POV
The long-awaited day had arrived. Wells Cathedral glowed with light, fresh flowers adorned every corner. Guests from across nations filled the pews, and cameras from both local and international media lined the aisles, ready to capture the historic moment.
King Edmund Hoult stood tall at the altar. Beside him, Emma Filezia glided forward in a sparkling white gown, a serene smile gracing her lips. Today, she was officially crowned Queen.
Behind them, Elle and Zara walked side by side, both radiant in soft pink gowns. Yet while they looked lovely on the outside, Elle's heart was in turmoil. As the vows were spoken, a single tear slid down her cheek. The crowd assumed it was a tear of joy for her father's newfound happiness. Only Elle knew it was born of deep disappointment.
Reception at the Palace – Evening
The palace glittered under crystal chandeliers. Nobles, politicians, and distinguished guests from around the globe filled the grand hall. The royal orchestra played lively tunes, couples twirled across the dance floor, and King Edmund and Queen Emma greeted guests with warmth.
But one thing was strange: the princess, Elle, was nowhere to be seen.
"Have you seen my princess?" Edmund asked a guard with concern.
"I'm sorry, Your Majesty. I haven't seen Princess Elle tonight."
"Find her. She might be in her chamber or the garden."
The guard hurried off, heading toward the west wing of the palace.
ELLE'S POV
I sat on my balcony, gazing at the distant glow of the celebration. Guests lined the streets, floral arches framed the palace gates. Everyone was rejoicing in this happiness. Everyone… except me.
If only I could freeze time. Or run away, far from it all.
Knock. Knock. Knock.
The sound at the door broke my reverie.
"Excuse me, Miss. King Edmund is waiting for you at the reception," Christian's voice came from outside.
I dashed to my bed, pretending to be asleep. The door creaked open.
"Hmm… don't lie, Princess. There's no way you're sound asleep with the window open and still in your gown. The cold air would bother you."
I opened my eyes with a huff. "You're too sharp to fool. Close the door, Chris. I want to talk."
He obeyed, shutting it firmly.
"Tonight I'll pretend to be unwell. I don't want to be glued to Zara and Emma. You'll help me make it convincing."
Christian nodded. "As you wish, Princess."
AUTHOR'S POV
Minutes later, Elle entered the reception hall through the grand doors. All eyes turned. Her golden gown shimmered beneath the chandeliers, her graceful steps accompanied by Christian, ever faithful at her side.
"Sorry, Father. There was an issue with my shoes," she said to King Edmund with a faint smile.
"Sit beside me, my daughter."
The speeches began. Lady Rosela spoke on behalf of the royal family, followed by Elle, who delivered words of welcome to the guests. Zara then took her turn, her sweet smile captivating the room.
Later, the royals mingled with distinguished guests.
"Harry! At last, you've come," Edmund greeted warmly, clasping King Harry York's hand.
"Of course, Edmund. The last time we met was when Lady Catherine was still carrying Elle. I was also present at her funeral, though we didn't get to speak." Harry's eyes softened as he turned to Elle. "You've grown into such beauty and grace, Elle. Just like your mother."
Elle bowed politely. "It's an honour to meet you, Your Majesty."
Zara was introduced next, followed by Harry's son, Prince Gerald. At twenty, he carried himself with easy charm and charisma that immediately drew attention.
"Would you like to dance with me, Princess Elle?" Gerald asked, extending his hand.
Elle hesitated, then smiled. "Of course."
They glided onto the dance floor. Zara, left behind, looked annoyed—and quickly asked Christian to dance with her.
As the music swelled, Gerald leaned closer. "Do you have a lover?"
Elle gave a bitter smile. "No. Not since the last one."
Gerald chuckled softly. "Then… do I meet your standards?"
"Maybe. But right now, I'm not thinking about love," Elle answered honestly.
The music shifted, and partners were exchanged. Elle looked up in surprise—her new partner was Christian.
"Wow… you can dance this?" she asked, astonished.
Christian's lips curved faintly. "Someone taught me when I was a teenager."
"Who?"
"My grandmother."
"She must have been a princess. So you're of noble blood, Chris?" Elle studied him intently.
"You could say that." Christian gave a fleeting smile before leaning closer to whisper, "So, how about your plan tonight, Princess?"
Elle faltered, then pretended to swoon. Her body went limp, and Christian swiftly caught her. Gasps rippled through the hall.
Without hesitation, he lifted her in his arms bridal-style. From Elle's lips came a faint whisper: "Good acting, right?"
"Yes, Your Majesty," Christian replied evenly, though his eyes held something deeper.
They hurried down the palace corridors, followed closely by Edmund and Emma, both anxious. Once in her chamber, Christian laid Elle gently on the bed.
"Elle, are you all right?" Edmund asked, worried.
"I feel so dizzy, Dad. Please let me rest."
"Very well, my dear. Rest. When you feel better, you can rejoin us." Emma brushed Elle's hair softly before leaving with Edmund.
The door shut. Only Elle and Christian remained.
"Yay, we did it, Chris!" Elle whispered with a laugh.
Christian smiled. "Your acting was flawless. Everyone believed it."
Elle studied him. "By the way… if you're of noble blood, why end up as a bodyguard?"
Christian drew a breath. "Technically, I'm not truly nobility. And… I should step out now."
"Okay. Thanks, Chris."
Before he could rise, Elle impulsively kissed his cheek.
Christian froze, stunned. Elle immediately pulled the blanket over her face, her cheeks burning red.
He cleared his throat. "Very well, Princess. I'll be outside if you need anything."
As he stepped out, Elle covered her face with both hands.
What did you just do, Elle?! You actually kissed him.