Chapter 221
Chapter 221
54
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Amelia’s phone buzzed just as she was finalizing her outfit for her outing with Niko the next day. She glanced at the screen, surprised to see his name. He had exchanged phone numbers only yesterday.
“Hello?”
“Amelia.” His voice sounded strained. “I’m afraid I need to cancel our plans today.”
Her heart sank. “Oh. Is everything alright?”
“Something urgent has come up. I’m needed in meetings for the rest of the day.” He paused. “I’m sorry. I was looking forward to seeing you.”
“I understand,” she said, trying to mask her disappointment. “Duty first.”
“I’ll see you tomorrow at the rehearsal. The car will pick you up at four.”
“Tomorrow, then.”
After they hung up, Amelia sat on the edge of her bed, staring at her phone. It wasn’t that she didn’t believe him… royal duties were demanding, but after yesterday’s connection, the cancellation felt like a step backward. She knew this was how her life was going to be, when they would often be doing things apart and not seeing each other for days.
“Everything okay?” her mother asked, appearing in the doorway.
“Fine. Niko had to cancel lunch. Something has come up.”
Gloria frowned. “That’s disappointing, but I suppose it’s good practice. Royal duties will always take precedence.”
“I know, Mother.” Amelia stood, smoothing down her dress. “I think I’ll take a walk in the garden.”
“Don’t forget, your friend Tessa arrives this afternoon.”
That brightened Amelia’s mood. “I hadn’t forgotten.”
The rehearsal was scheduled for three at St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, the ancient church where Wystovian royalty had married for centuries. Amelia arrived with her parents and grandfather, stepping into the cavernous space with its soaring arches and stained–glass windows.
King Theodore greeted them warmly. “Edward, Gloria, Ted–welcome! And Amelia, radiant as always.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty,” she replied, curtseying slightly.
“Niko is just arriving,” Theodore said. “He was held up.”
Amelia nodded, scanning the cathedral. Prince Alexei stood near the altar, talking with a tall, elegant woman she hadn’t met before. Near them, Lady Maria watched with barely concealed annoyance.
17:58 Wed, Sep 24
Chapter 221
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“There you are!” A familiar voice called out, and Amelia turned to see Tessa Harrison hurrying toward her. Her friend’s flight had been delayed overnight, and Amelia had feared her friend wouldn’t make it.
“Tessa!” Amelia embraced her friend tightly. “Thank God you’re here.”
Tessa pulled back, her blue eyes sparkling with excitement. “Like I’d miss your royal wedding? Though I’m still waiting for you to tell me this is all an elaborate prank.”
“Not a prank,” Amelia laughed. “Just my life now, apparently.”
“Well,
you look incredible, Tessa said, linking her arm through Amelia’s. “Now, which one’s the prince? I need to make sure he’s good enough for you.” It was a joke everyone knew who Prince Niko was unless you lived under a rock, of course.
Amelia nodded toward the entrance where Niko had just appeared. He looked tired but gorgeous. Their eyes met across the cathedral, and he offered a small, private smile before being pulled into conversation with the Archbishop.
“Damn,” Tessa whispered. “The photos don’t do him justice. Those cheekbones should be illegal.”
“Tessa, please,” Amelia hissed, though she couldn’t help smiling.
“What? I’m just making an observation. Is that Maria and Prince Alexei?” Tessa had been thoroughly briefed on all the key players.
“Yes. I haven’t met the woman with Alexei, though.” Amelia had talked to Tessa on the phone last night filling. her in on all the details so far.
Tessa studied the group. “Probably the best man’s date. He’s gorgeous too, by the way. Do all men in Wystovia look like that?”
“Please, call me Niko.” He turned back to Amelia. “I’m sorry about yesterday. The meeting ran much longer than expected, or I would have called you last night.”
Niko offered Amelia his arm. “Shall we?”
17:58 Wed, Sep 24
“And Prince Alexei will be standing here as best man,” he instructed, gesturing to a spot beside the altar.
Alexei nodded, stepping forward with the woman Amelia had noticed earlier. “This is Isabella Rossi,” he introduced. “She’ll be attending as my guest.”
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