My Love, My Life | Prince Christian & Madison Nolan

Chapter Twenty-Five: A Royal Christmas at Sandringham

December 25th, 2013 - Sandringham, Norfolk

The cold winter air nipped at the Duchess of Albany's cheeks as she stepped out of Sandringham House, her hand firmly grasped by her husband, Prince Christian. Madison, now the Duchess of Albany, took a deep breath, preparing herself for her first royal Christmas at Sandringham. The sounds of excited onlookers and the distant pealing of church bells filled the air, creating a festive atmosphere that both thrilled and intimidated the newest member of the British Royal Family.

"Ready, sweetheart?" Prince Christian whispered, now placing his hand gently on his wife's back.

Madison nodded, a small smile gracing her lips. "As I'll ever be," she replied.

The couple fell into step with the rest of the royal family as they began the traditional walk to St. Mary Magdalene Church. A smile formed on her face as she found herself surrounded by familiar faces: The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and various other members of the royal family.

The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh would arrive shortly before the rest of the family as they would be driven to the church.

The short journey to the church was filled with quiet conversation and the crunch of gravel underfoot. Madison caught snippets of holiday wishes exchanged between family members and observed the easy camaraderie that came from years of shared tradition.

As they approached the church entrance, the gathered crowd's excitement became palpable. Well-wishers lined the path, their faces alight with anticipation to catch a glimpse of the royal family on this special day. Madison smiled and nodded at the onlookers, following the lead of the more experienced royals around her.

Inside the church, the warmth enveloped them, a stark contrast to the chilly December air outside. The scent of pine and candle wax filled Madison's nose as she followed Christian to their designated seats. The interior of St. Mary Magdalene was a sight to behold, decked in Christmas finery that spoke of centuries of tradition and reverence.

As the service began, Madison found herself seated between Christian and her brother-in-law, Prince Harry. The familiar hymns and prayers washed over her, bringing a sense of comfort amidst the unfamiliarity of her surroundings. She caught the eye of her grandmother-in-law, the Queen, who gave her a small smile and encouraging nod. The gesture, though subtle, filled Madison with a warmth that spread through her chest.

The service concluded with a rousing rendition of "God Save the Queen," the voices of the royal family and congregation rising in unison.

Emerging from the church, the December sun cast a pale light over the gathered crowds. The air was filled with excitement as the public, many of whom had been waiting for hours, craned their necks to catch a glimpse of the royal family. Madison took a deep breath, smoothing down her coat and adjusting her fascinator.

"Remember," Christian murmured as they descended the church steps, "just be yourself. They'll love you."

With a nod, Madison stepped forward, following the lead of the more experienced royals. Christian and Madison were walking behind William and Catherine, who were walking behind the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall. She approached a group of well-wishers, their faces alight with excitement.

"Merry Christmas," Madison greeted them warmly.

"Merry Christmas, Your Royal Highness," an elderly woman replied, handing a small bouquet of winter flowers to Madison.

Madison accepted the flowers graciously graciously. "Thank you so much. They're beautiful," she said, inhaling their delicate fragrance. "Have you been coming here long?"