Majestic Misstaps

Chapter 2

Author's notes
For the experience I recommend you listen to the song above on Spotify while reading this. Trust me on this

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Khalisar, Almara
Sultan's Citadel
December

Hours passed in a blur of rituals, photographs, and congratulations. Finally, the evening approached, and the grand ballroom was transformed into a glittering wonderland for the wedding reception. Chandeliers sparkled like stars above, and the tables were draped in rich, jewel-toned fabrics, adorned with golden centerpieces. The scent of jasmine and roses filled the air, mingling with the soft notes of traditional music.

Lisa arrived at the reception dressed in an elegant navy blue baju kebaya, the intricate lacework and delicate beading catching the light as she moved. Her heart pounded in her chest as she scanned the room, searching for Jennie.

Then, there she was. Princess Jennie, standing near the entrance with her family. Jennie was dressed in a stunning silver dress with subtle traditional touches, her long hair falling in soft waves around her shoulders. Lisa's breath caught in her throat. Jennie looked even more beautiful than she remembered.

Jennie caught Lisa's eye and smiled, a smile that sent a rush of warmth through Lisa's entire being. With her heart racing, Lisa made her way over, trying to appear calm despite the nervous energy bubbling inside her.

"Lisa!" Jennie greeted her with a hug, and Lisa melted into the embrace, savoring the brief moment of closeness.

"It's so good to see you," Lisa said, pulling back slightly to look at Jennie. Her heart was pounding so hard she feared Jennie might hear it.

"You look amazing," Jennie said, her eyes sparkling with genuine admiration.

"So do you," Lisa replied, her voice softer than she intended. She wanted to say more, but the words caught in her throat. Instead, she simply held Jennie's gaze, her mind racing with thoughts of what might happen next. Should she confess her feelings now? Would this be the right moment?

Before she could decide, they were interrupted by other guests, royals from nearby countries, who came to greet Jennie and Lisa. The conversation shifted to polite small talk, and Lisa felt her chance slipping away. But Jennie stayed close, and every now and then, their eyes would meet, exchanging unspoken words that only they understood.

As the night went on, the wedding reception grew livelier. The ballroom filled with laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses. Couples took to the dance floor, and Lisa's nerves began to subside as the joy of the evening took over. She found herself laughing at her brother's jokes, chatting with her cousins, and even joining in a few dances.

But through it all, her thoughts remained anchored to Jennie.

Finally, as the night began to wind down, Lisa noticed Jennie standing alone on a balcony, looking out over the palace gardens. The moonlight bathed her in a soft, ethereal glow, and Lisa knew this was the moment she had been waiting for. Summoning all her courage, she made her way to Jennie.

Jennie turned as Lisa approached, a smile already forming on her lips. "I was wondering when I'd get to talk to you alone," she said, her tone light, but with a hint of something deeper.

Lisa leaned on the balcony railing beside her, taking a moment to admire the view before speaking. "It's been a crazy day," she said, trying to steady her voice. "I'm glad we finally have a chance to catch up."

"Me too," Jennie replied, her eyes meeting Lisa's with a warmth that made Lisa's heart flutter. "I've missed you, Lisa. Our calls...they just aren't the same as being together like this."

Lisa felt a surge of hope at Jennie's words. Maybe, just maybe, Jennie felt the same way she did. The thought gave her the courage she needed to finally speak her truth.

"Jennie, there's something I need to tell you," Lisa began, her voice trembling slightly. She turned to face Jennie fully, her heart pounding in her chest. "These past few months... I've realized that you're more than just a friend to me. I've tried to ignore it, to push it aside, but I can't anymore. Jennie, I think I've fallen in love with you."

The words hung in the air between them, and for a moment, Lisa felt like the world had stopped. Jennie's eyes widened in surprise, and Lisa's heart sank as she braced herself for the worst.