George maintained a composed demeanour as he strode confidently along the path to the grand doors leading to the throne room, where the evening's festivities were in full swing. Dismissing the bows of the guards and maids with a curt nod, his mind was preoccupied with thoughts of the lady he had just encountered. Joffery, his blond friend, broke the silence from behind him, a grin spread across his face.
"You never mentioned you had a stunning female acquaintance," Joffery remarked, clearly impressed. George let out a huff; "acquaintance" was an understatement. His thoughts were tangled up in the upcoming marriage to Lord Edward's daughter. He exhaled slowly, feeling no resistance to the union. Though he had yet to meet her, he was well aware that this marriage was strategically advantageous. Lord Edward was a formidable figure, having amassed wealth and power to become one of the kingdom's top nobles, all while preserving his family's esteemed reputation over generations. So it came as no shock when George's father summoned him and boldly announced the betrothal to Lady Emerald, Lord Edward's daughter.
Without a moment's hesitation, George had agreed. This match not only strengthened the stability of the palace but also benefited him personally. He could see it in his brothers' expressions during the dinner announcement; they understood what was at stake.
Slowing his pace, George approached his parents, stopping before them with a respectful bow. "Your Majesties," he greeted formally. His father's scrutinizing gaze met him while his mother offered a relieved smile. Joffery hung back a few paces, clearly eager to witness the proceedings.
The king rose, commanding the room's attention with a gesture for George to join him at his side. Clear and authoritative, his deep voice echoed as he addressed the assembly. The room fell into a profound silence, all eyes drawn to their king.
"My lords and ladies, esteemed guests, I stand before you today with immense pride. It is with great joy that I announce the betrothal of my son, Crown Prince George, to the remarkable Lady Emerald, daughter of the illustrious Lord Edward. This union will herald a promising future for our kingdom, forging a stronger bond between our houses, supported by the evident affection of these two extraordinary individuals. We offer them our full and confident blessings as they embark on their journey together." The king concluded, and thunderous applause erupted from the crowd, who eagerly made way for Lady Emerald.
Surprise was etched on George's otherwise inscrutable face. Those striking green eyes staring back at him could not be mistaken. Lady Emerald. Regaining his composure, he stepped down the few stairs before him, extending his hand toward her.
Emerald had just re-entered the room, determined to put the outcome of her earlier walk behind her. She knew her mother wouldn't approve if she found out about the stranger. After all, this could be her last encounter with him—though perhaps it wouldn't be. Standing beside her mother, she endured her sisters' ongoing criticisms; their disdain was never subtle. Just as she began to tune them out, the room fell silent at the sound of the king's voice.
Her mother grasped her hands, guiding her closer to the throne while still maintaining a respectful distance. Her father stood alongside her, offering a reassuring smile that calmed her nerves, if only slightly.
"We offer them our full and confident blessings as they begin their lives together," she heard the king declare. Her father's hand rested gently on the small of her back, encouraging her forward. Taking a steadying breath, she lifted her chin, masking her inner turmoil with an outward calm. As she walked toward the throne, people parted, the applause enveloping her like a wave. But then a realization struck her: the man with the striking black eyes was not just a stranger; he was her betrothed.
With determination, Emerald pressed on. This man she had just awkwardly met was Crown Prince George. He stepped down, extending his hand to her. She placed her left hand into his while lifting her dress slightly with her right hand as she ascended the steps. Forcing herself to look away from him, she directed her gaze toward the crowd, the applause growing louder as they stood united.
She couldn't ignore the envious glances from the young ladies in attendance, her sisters among them. Emerald couldn't help but sigh, but there was a sense of triumph in knowing she would not be overshadowed.