𝐄𝐩𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬: 𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐟 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐎𝐟 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞|𝟏𝟖+

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠'𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 - 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭#𝟑

{A long chapter and smut at the end :) }

The grand dining hall was alive with quiet activity as the maids and cooks meticulously arranged the table, placing silverware, crystal glasses, and a spread of delectable dishes with precision. The long, polished table gleamed under the soft glow of the chandeliers, reflecting the careful attention to detail that had gone into preparing for the evening.

Amara stood at one end of the table, her eyes scanning the arrangements. She was known for her meticulous nature, ensuring every detail was perfect. As she adjusted the position of a floral centerpiece, Lucian approached her, his footsteps nearly silent on the marble floor.

"Everything looks beautiful," he murmured, standing close to her.

Amara smiled, a light laugh escaping her lips as she continued her work. "I just want it to be perfect for Elara. It's her special night."

Lucian's gaze softened as he watched her. "It will be because you've seen to it."

She glanced up at him, a playful glint in her eyes. "You're just saying that because you're biased."

"Perhaps," Lucian admitted, a rare, gentle smile curving his lips, a sight that was a privilege for only one person in the entire kingdom. He reached out, lightly brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "But it's true."

Amara felt warmth spread through her at his touch, and she giggled softly. "You've become quite the charmer, Your Majesty."

Lucian chuckled, his deep voice a comforting sound. "Only for you, my Queen."

Their light-hearted exchange didn't go unnoticed by the maids, who exchanged amused glances as they worked. It was no secret among the staff that their leader, known for his stern and unyielding demeanor, reserved his smiles and laughter for one person alone—Amara. The sight of their king, so tender and open with his queen, was something that brought a quiet joy to those who served them.

As they continued their gentle banter, Amara caught sight of one of the cooks carefully placing a platter of her favorite dish on the table. "Oh, they remembered!" she exclaimed softly, turning to Lucian with delight. "The roasted duck! Elara loves it."

Lucian nodded, his smile widening just a fraction. "I made sure of it. Anything for you and Elara."

Amara's heart swelled with affection, and she leaned into him slightly. "You're too good to us."

He simply shrugged, his hand resting on the small of her back. "It's only right that the ones I love have the best."

Their conversation was interrupted by the head maid approaching, bowing slightly. "Your Majesties, everything is ready. The guests will be arriving shortly."

Amara nodded in approval. "Thank you, Maria. Everything looks perfect."

The atmosphere in the dining hall was light, filled with congratulatory remarks for Elara, Lucian's step sister, and her engagement. Lucian's arm was wrapped protectively around Amara's waist, a small smile playing on his lips as he watched his youngest step-sister's excitement. The table was filled with conversation about wedding planning—colors, flowers, and who would stand as bridesmaids.

"I think the ceremony could be in the garden," Amara suggested softly, her voice warm. "The view at sunset would be breathtaking."

Elara beamed at the idea. "I love that! It would be so beautiful but I've been thinking of a spring wedding, with lavenders and white roses everywhere. What do you think, Mother?"

Her mother, Alexandra nodded with a forced smile. "That sounds lovely, dear. A royal wedding should be nothing short of perfect."

William chuckled. "And we mustn't forget the guest list. It'll be the talk of the kingdom."