Tied to the Throne

chapter thirty two

I could feel the panic rise within me as I confronted the kingdom advisor, my voice trembling with a mixture of frustration and disbelief. "What do you mean my coronation is later today? I was not informed about this at all!" I exclaimed, my tone laced with urgency.

The grand chamber of the palace seemed to shrink around me, the opulent tapestries and gilded decorations fading into the background as my focus narrowed on the advisor standing before me. His composed demeanor clashed starkly with my own frantic state, intensifying my frustration.

My mind raced, desperately trying to grasp the gravity of the situation. The weight of responsibility now bore down upon my shoulders, unannounced and unexpected. I had always known that this day would come, inevitable as the changing seasons, but I had anticipated a semblance of preparation, a moment to gather my thoughts and emotions.

The advisor cleared his throat, his voice calm yet tinged with a hint of apology. "My sincerest apologies, Your Highness," he began, his words barely quelling the torrent of emotions swirling within me. "With the untimely passing of King Aiden and Queen Juliette, it was deemed necessary to expedite the transition of power. The kingdom is in need of a leader, and it was decided that today would be the most opportune time for your coronation."

The advisor's voice grate on my nerves like sandpaper, each word a piercing reminder of their disregard for me. I can no longer tolerate their presence, nor can I afford to waste another moment in that suffocating chamber. With a burst of adrenaline, I abruptly turn on my heel and stormed out of the room, leaving a trail of palpable tension in my wake.

As I ascend the grand staircase, my steps quicken, my heartbeat matching the pace of my racing thoughts. The walls of the palace seem to blur into a hazy backdrop as my focus narrow, my sole objective to reach my room.

The intricate paintings lining the corridor depicted scenes of triumph and glory, but they offer no solace. The gilded sconces that adorn the walls, casting flickering shadows, like specters of the responsibility that loomed before me. I pay them no heed, my gaze fixed steadfastly ahead.

Finally, I arrive at the entrance to my bedroom. The heavy wooden door, etched with intricate carvings, stood as a barrier between the chaos of the world outside and the sanctuary I sought within. With a forceful push, it swings open, revealing a space that was both familiar and comforting.

Entering my room, I close the door behind me, shutting out the clamor of the palace and creating a cocoon of solitude. The air is laced with the scent of rain, or well it smells like rain is about to fall - my favourite smell.

"Bella?" The sound of my name echoes through the room, causing me to startle and leap in surprise, my heart pounding within my chest. The suddenness of the voice catches me off guard, sending a rush of adrenaline coursing through my veins.

"AH!" I yelp, the startled exclamation escaping my lips involuntarily.

But just as quickly as fear grips me, relief floods in as Tina steps into view, her figure emerging from the shadows. A warm smile dances upon her lips as she raises her hands in a calming gesture, attempting to ease the residual shock that lingers in the air.

"Hey! It's just me, calm down," she reassures me, her voice infused with a gentle chuckle. The soothing sound of her laughter wraps around me like a comforting embrace, dispelling the remnants of fear that had seized me only moments ago.

A smile spreads across my face, mirroring Tina's infectious mirth. "You certainly got me," I admit, a mixture of amusement and relief lacing my words. The tension that had coiled within me begins to unwind, replaced by the warmth of familiarity and friendship.

Still chuckling, I take a step closer to Tina, closing the distance between us. "Alright, you got me good. So, why are you here in my room?" I inquire, a playful curiosity gleaming in my eyes.

Tina's eyes twinkle mischievously as she reveals her purpose. "Oh, I was just getting your dress ready for later, making sure it's still in pristine condition. And, of course, to lend a hand in hairstyling and makeup," she explains, her words laced with enthusiasm. The genuine excitement in her voice conveys her genuine desire to contribute to the momentous occasion that awaits me.

I nod, and go to sit at the desk. I'm kind of glad I have someone to help me get ready. I mean a month or two ago I hated the idea of having a lady in waiting, but now I'm glad I do have one. The best one.

As I sit at the vanity, the minutes tick by, and I watch with awe as Tina works her magic on my hair. Each strand is skillfully arranged, creating an intricate yet effortless style that befits the occasion. I can't help but marvel at her talent, the way she effortlessly transforms my locks into a vision of beauty.

Glancing into the mirror, I admire the simple yet elegant makeup that adorns my face. Tina's touch has enhanced my natural features, highlighting my eyes and lips in a way that feels authentic and true to myself. How she possesses the skill to create such artistry on the canvas of another's face remains a mystery to me. I've always marveled at her ability, recognizing that it is a talent I could never quite master.

With a final flourish, Tina steps back, surveying her work with a satisfied smile. The reflection before me exudes a sense of poise and grace, ready to assume the role that awaits. The confidence within me swells, bolstered by Tina's efforts and the unwavering support she has offered throughout.

"Thank you, Tina," I express my gratitude, my voice laced with genuine appreciation. She nods, understanding the sentiment behind my words, and departs to retrieve the dress. As she leaves the room, I take a deep breath, gathering my thoughts.

"I can get my dress on, but thanks," I call out to Tina, my voice carrying a sense of quiet self assurance.

I hear her mumbled voice through the door utter something along the lines of agreement. Then I hear her footsteps carry her away, leaving the room silent.

Now all I need is the dress.

Wait.

Shit.

It's going to be in me and Nikolai's room. That's where the stylist put my last dress, and that's why Tina went to go get it.

Fuck.

I just have to pray that he's not in there.

Having to face him once later on today is already going to be too much...

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little bit boring but next chap will be interesting (i think). thanks for reading :)
1150 words