Page 57 of Royal Love
“She has your eyes,” one elderly woman says to Amelia, who smiles graciously.
“And His Majesty’s stubborn chin,” adds another, drawing laughter from those nearby.
I pretend to look offended, which only increases the amusement. These moments of connection with our people are precious, reminding me why the sacrifices of royal life are worthwhile.
As the event winds down and we prepare to leave, I notice Amelia stifling a yawn behind her hand. Ellie is starting to fuss slightly, likely ready for her next feeding.
“Time to get our princess home,” I murmur to Amelia, placing my hand at the small of her back.
She nods gratefully, giving the crowd one final wave as Parker escorts us back to the car. Once inside, Amelia immediately takes Ellie from me, checking her diaper before settling her into her car seat.
“You were brilliant today,” I tell her as the car pulls away. “Both of you.”
“She was perfect,” Amelia agrees, pressing a kiss to Ellie’s head. “Not a single meltdown.”
“I meant what I said up there,” I say, watching my wife and daughter with a fullness in my heart I never thought possible. “About expanding the program.”
Amelia’s eyes meet mine, hopeful but cautious. “The budget committee?—”
“Will approve it,” I finish firmly. “I’ll make sure of it.”
Her smile is worth every political battle I’ll have to fight. “Thank you, Tristan.”
“No,” I say, leaning over to press my forehead against hers, creating a small circle with our daughter between us. “Thank you for showing me what truly matters in this kingdom.”
As we drive back to the palace, I watch the city pass by outside the window, seeing it now through the eyes of a father, not just a king. The responsibility feels heavier than ever, but so does the purpose, the clarity of what I’m fighting for.
For Ellie. For Amelia. For all the families who depend on us to lead with compassion and vision.
For the future we’re building together, one day at a time.
CHAPTER 31
AMELIA
The gentle creaking of the rocking chair fills the nursery as I sway back and forth, Ellie nestled against my chest. Her eyes are heavy with sleep, but she fights it, tiny fists opening and closing against my nightgown as she stubbornly tries to stay awake. Just like her father, I think with a smile, always resisting rest when there’s more to experience.
Tomorrow marks my official return to royal duties—my first full schedule of engagements since giving birth six weeks ago. While I’ve maintained certain responsibilities from home and made the appearance at the daycare center, tomorrow signals a true return to the balancing act of being both queen and mother.
My stomach twists with a mixture of anticipation and anxiety. I press my lips to Ellie’s downy head, breathing in her sweet scent, trying to memorize this feeling of her warm weight against me. Will she miss me? Will I miss some important milestone while sitting through a meeting? Am I making the right choice?
The soft click of the door interrupts my spiraling thoughts. Tristan enters carrying a tray, moving with the careful quiet that we’ve both mastered over the past few weeks of parenthood.
“I thought you might need reinforcements,” he whispers, setting the tray on the small table beside the rocking chair. I see two steaming mugs of hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, and a bowl of ice cream with chocolate sauce drizzled artfully over the top.
“Comfort food?” I ask, raising an eyebrow.
He shrugs, a boyish smile playing at his lips. “I figured you could use it. Pre-first-day-back jitters and all.”
“How did you know?” I shift Ellie slightly to accept the mug he offers.
“Because I know you,” he says simply, settling into the armchair across from me with his own hot chocolate. “And because I heard you pacing in here for the last hour.”
I take a sip of the rich chocolate, feeling warmth spread through me. “I’m being ridiculous, aren’t I?”
“Not at all.” His expression grows serious. “It’s a big step, going back.”
“I keep telling myself that women do this all the time,” I say, glancing down at Ellie, whose eyelids are finally beginning to flutter closed. “Return to work, leave their babies with capable caregivers, continue with their lives.”
