Page 58 of Royal Secret

It’s been two years since Jakob and I settled into this house, our haven nestled amongst Bergovia’s rolling hills. We’ve let life unfurl at its own pace, savoring each moment like the slow bloom of spring. Now, with Reya toddling around, her laughter the sweetest melody, things almost feel complete.

Almost, because there is one thing left to do.

“Momma!” Reya’s tiny voice pulls me from my reverie.

Her chubby hand points excitedly at a butterfly flitting from one flower to another. Her wonder is infectious, and I smile, scooping her into my arms to spin her around, her giggles filling the air.

“Today’s a special day, little one,” I smile, pressing a kiss to her rosy cheek.

The significance of the day makes it feel like my chest is full of glitter — it’s mine and Jakob’s wedding day, the beginning of yet another chapter in our amazing life.

“Dada?” she asks, eyes wide with innocence and curiosity.

“Yes, sweetheart. Mommy and Daddy are getting married today.”

I set her down gently, watching as she darts off towards the house, her small feet navigating the familiar path. My mom meets her at the door, where she scoops Reya up and carries her inside.

The sound of footsteps alerts me to someone else’s presence, and I turn to see Jakob’s father approaching, his gait dignified, an unspoken gravity in his stride.What is he doing here so early? And on the wedding day, at that?

“Good morning, Your Majesty,” I greet him, hoping I don’t sound as perturbed as I’m feeling.

“Courtney,” he nods, his eyes finding mine with an intensity that suggests more than just pleasantries are to be exchanged. “May I speak with Jakob?”

“Of course.” I call for Jakob, who emerges from the house, his hair tousled, the hint of a beard framing his strong jaw — a man who has grown into his role as a father with a grace that humbles me.

“Jakob.” His father looks between the two of us and then nods. “I understand that today is a special day, so I will not take up an unnecessary amount of your time. However, I have made an important decision and wished to tell you it in person. Afterconsiderable thought, you are the one I choose to inherit the throne.”

I watch as myriad emotions flicker across Jakob’s face — surprise, honor, a touch of trepidation. His gaze meets mine, searching for reassurance. My heart swells with pride, and an unspoken promise passes between us — we’re in this together, as we’ve always been.

He will be king, and I will be queen — a role I never could have imagined for myself growing up in Texas, but that I will embrace with the same dedication I have embraced partnership and motherhood.

“Father.” Jakob stands taller, proud, but I can see the sheen in his eyes. “I am honored.”

“Congratulations,” I say, stepping closer to wrap my arm around Jakob.

His father nods, a rare smile gracing his lips, before he turns and walks away, leaving us to absorb the magnitude of his words.

“Can you believe it?” Jakob murmurs, his eyes alight with the reflection of new possibilities.

“Believe it? I’m ecstatic for you — for us. This is your destiny, Jakob.”

He leans down, capturing my lips in a kiss that holds the promise of a thousand tomorrows, and I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that this is exactly where we are meant to be.

“I should go,” Jakob says. “You must get ready, and is it not bad luck for me to see you in your dress?”

“Hmm. Something like that.” I snuggle my face into his neck, too distracted by his scent and the feel of being close to him to care about much else.

“See you at the altar,” he says.

“Can’t wait,” I reply, only the promise of what’s to come giving me the strength to step out of his embrace.

I head inside and up the staircase. Ginny and Mimi, my closest friends and chosen sisters, await me in the room that’s been transformed into bridal headquarters. Their excited chatter fills the space as they help each other with their makeup. The sight of them, here for me on this momentous day, warms my heart.

“Look at you, Courtney! You’re already glowing,” Ginny exclaims, her eyes sparkling with tears of joy.

“Today’s the day,” Mimi adds, her voice tender. “Everything will be perfect.”

“Thanks to you two,” I say, my gratitude deep and genuine. If Ginny had never encouraged me to go to Bergovia, if Mimi hadn’t helped piece my heart back together on that awful day, then I don’t know where I would be right now.

---