A Song of Roses

CHAPTER IX

"You seem happy, Princess," Alina remarked as she helped the handmaidens work on my gown. I felt a touch of embarrassment at her comment, aware that my feelings for William were likely written all over my face. "I am always happy, Alina," I replied with a soft smile, trying to maintain my usual calm demeanour despite the fact that my heart was beating quickly and my skin felt flushed. The gown was a sight to behold, adorned with fine golden lace and pearl embellishments that gave it a regal and majestic look. The yellow-gold colour suited my skin tone admirably, making my complexion appear more luminous and vibrant. My blond hair was held up in an elaborate updo, the two tiny strands of hair framing my face, allowing a glimpse of my delicate features. My hair was carefully woven with jewelled pins and adorned with strands of pearls, giving it a soft and feminine appearance. The gold necklace featured a large central gemstone that reflected the light and provided a touch of sparkle. My shoes were delicate pumps, adorned with small golden accents and small gemstones that provided an elegant touch to my overall look."All done, your grace," the handmaidens announced as they completed the final touches on my gown and accessories. I looked at my reflection in the mirror and couldn't help but feel impressed by the final result. "I thank you all for your exceptional efforts," I uttered kindly as I gazed at my reflection, feeling truly transformed after the hours of preparation. They bowed in acknowledgement and pride at their work.

As the handmaidens departed, leaving only me and Alina, she leaned close to me. "Don't tell me you had an intimate session with the prince in the library," Alina whispered with an amused look on her face, her expression saying she already knew the answer. "What? No!" I replied in a hurried tone, feeling my face grow warm at the implied accusation. "Well... almost," I replied sheepishly, feeling a rush of heat rise to my cheeks. Alina looked at me in shock, her eyes widening with amusement. "Princess Anna Rois, where did this boldness come from?" she asked, her tone filled with surprise and playfulness. We ended up just giggling to ourselves.

As I walked towards the entrance of the palace, where William was awaiting me with his hands clasped behind his back, I could not help but smile brightly as I approached him. He was wearing a fine, dark blue velvet doublet, its rich hue enhancing his powerful masculinity. His shirt was a bright white linen, the fabric soft and fine against his pale skin. His breeches were made from velvet as well, in the same dark blue shade as the doublet, and his hose matched the rest of his attire. The overall impression was one of elegance and sophistication. "My apologies for the delay," I murmured softly as I approached him. "It's quite all right. I knew you would be beautiful no matter how long I waited." His voice was soft and comforting. He held out his hand, beckoning me to take it, and I did so without hesitation.

As we approached the carriage, the footman assisted me calmly as I stepped inside. closing the door behind me. I settled into my seat and watched William climb in next to me. His hand was gently placed into mine, his soft and calloused fingertips gripping my hand softly. "You look prettier than gold," he whispered softly, his warm breath grazing my ear as he spoke. That compliment immediately warmed my cheeks.

I looked out the carriage window as we approached the royal castle, the magnificent structure standing tall and proud before our eyes. I could see nobles, men and women, entering, all clad in elegant and elaborate attire. As the carriage came to a stop outside the royal palace, the footmen opened the doors and helped me down, holding a hand for my balance. William came down from his side of the carriage and offered his hand to me. The guard proclaimed our arrival as we walked into the castle: "His Highness Prince William Villefort and his wife Princess Anna Rois." The assembled nobles and royals greeted our entrance with a display of respect, their applause ringing out through the hall. William's hand was still held firmly to mine as we walked through the hall, passing kings and queens from nearby kingdoms along with princes and princesses. The assembled nobility paid due homage to us, bowing and curtsying with elaborate gestures of respect. "Dearest, there you are!" My mother exclaimed as she came to me, along with my father and my sister. William gave a warm smile and a bow as we approached them. "Mother," I curtsied, "I have missed you dearly." I held her hands gently, feeling a surge of warmth as I embraced her. Wiiliam remained standing in a formal and polite manner, offering his greetings and a small bow of the head. My mother smiled warmly at me, her eyes full of delight as she looked at me in my gown. "Father, sister," I curtsied to them as well, offering formal greetings. My father was a tall figure, bearing an air of authority and respect. He stood straight and poised with a dignified bearing, his demeanour matching his stature. He greeted me with a smile.