Taylor's Gossip Girl Diaries 3

Chapter 23: Life In Bloom

As Selena and Alain sat down for breakfast in the opulent surroundings of her penthouse, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of anticipation. Queen Isabelle De Florian, Alain's mother, joined them at the table, her regal presence commanding attention as she regarded them with a keen eye.

"Good morning, Mother," Alain greeted with a respectful nod, his tone polite yet tinged with a hint of apprehension.

"Good morning, darling," Isabelle replied, her voice warm yet tinged with a sense of urgency. "I trust you both slept well?"

Selena offered a polite smile, her demeanor poised and composed as she replied, "Yes, thank you, Your Majesty. We had a restful night."

Isabelle's gaze shifted to Selena, a knowing glint in her eyes as she broached the topic that weighed heavily on her mind. "Selena, my dear, I couldn't help but notice that we haven't yet finalized the details of the wedding," she remarked, her tone gentle yet firm.

Selena's heart skipped a beat at the mention of the impending nuptials, her mind racing with thoughts of the elaborate affair that lay ahead. "Yes, Mother De Florian, we've been... discussing the arrangements," she replied, her voice carefully measured as she glanced at Alain for support.

Alain nodded in agreement, his expression determined as he added, "Indeed, Mother. We're working to ensure that everything is perfect for the occasion."

Isabelle's brow furrowed with concern, her maternal instincts kicking into overdrive as she observed the subtle tension between the young couple. "I understand that planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but time is of the essence, especially considering your royal obligations, Alain," she urged, her tone gentle yet insistent.

Selena's eyes narrowed with determination, her resolve steeling as she met Isabelle's gaze head-on. "Rest assured, Mother De Florian, we are fully committed to making this wedding a grand affair," she declared, her voice laced with confidence.

Isabelle nodded in approval, her expression softening with a sense of pride. "I have every confidence in you both, my dears," she replied, her voice filled with maternal affection. "But remember, the eyes of Monaco will be upon you, and it's imperative that we present a united front to the world."

Selena and Alain exchanged a meaningful glance, their silent communication a testament to their unwavering bond. "We understand, Mother, " Alain assured her, his voice filled with conviction. "We will not disappoint you."

As Madame Isabelle De Florian took her seat at the breakfast table, a sense of unease settled over her as she glanced around the room, her sharp gaze searching for her daughter, Amélie.

"Where's Amélie?" Isabelle inquired, her voice tinged with concern. "I haven't seen her since last night."

Alain's brow furrowed with worry, his thoughts mirroring his mother's as he replied, "Me too, Mother. I haven't seen her either."

Selena, ever the quick thinker, interjected smoothly, her tone calm and composed as she offered an explanation. "Oh, I wouldn't worry, Madame De Florian," she reassured them, her voice carrying an air of nonchalance. "Amélie probably went out with Luisa for an early morning stroll. You know how much she enjoys her morning walks."

Isabelle regarded Selena with a grateful smile, her concerns momentarily assuaged by Selena's reassuring words. "Of course, you're probably right, my dear," she conceded, her tone grateful. "I'm sure she'll be back soon."

Alain nodded in agreement, though a flicker of concern still lingered in his eyes. "Yes, Mother. I'm sure Amélie is perfectly fine," he added, his voice echoing Selena's reassurance.