My Love, My Life | Prince Christian & Madison Nolan

Chapter Twenty-Seven: A Birthday Surprise

January 24, 2014 - Ivy Cottage, Kensington Palace

The winter sun beamed through the curtains of Ivy Cottage, casting a warm glow over the sleeping form of Madison. As consciousness slowly crept in, a smile spread across her face. Today was her 31st birthday.

"Happy birthday, sweetheart." a soft voice murmured, accompanied by the gentle press of lips against her forehead.

Madison's eyes fluttered open to see Christian, smiling down at her. In his hands was a breakfast tray laden with her favourite foods: blueberry pancakes, crispy bacon, and a steaming mug of coffee.

"Christian," she breathed, sitting up with a grin. "You didn't have to do all this."

"Of course I did," he replied, setting the tray over her lap. "It's not every day my wife turns thirty-one."

As Madison savoured her birthday breakfast, Christian sat beside her, his arm draped comfortably around her shoulders. They chatted about their plans for the day, with Christian being purposely vague about the evening's arrangements.

"I thought we could have lunch at that little bistro you love in Notting Hill," he suggested. "Just the two of us."

Madison's eyes lit up. "That sounds perfect."

After breakfast, Madison prepared for the day, choosing a nice yet comfortable outfit suitable for a casual lunch date. As she applied the finishing touches to her makeup, she couldn't help but reflect on how much her life had changed in the past year. From a commoner to a Duchess and member of the royal family, the journey had been nothing short of extraordinary.

The couple left Ivy Cottage hand in hand, nodding politely to the protection officers who discreetly followed them. The drive to Notting Hill was filled with easy conversation and laughter, a testament to the strong bond they shared.

The bistro, a quaint establishment tucked away on a quiet street, welcomed them warmly. The owner, recognising the royals, ushered them to a secluded table in the back, ensuring their privacy.

"To my beautiful wife," Christian toasted, raising his glass of champagne. "Happy birthday, Mads. I fall more in love with you every day."

Madison blushed, clinking her glass against his. "Thank you, my love. I couldn't have asked for a better husband."

Their lunch was a leisurely affair, filled with intimate conversation and shared plates of exquisite food. As they finished their lunch — a decadent chocolate cake with "Happy Birthday" written in elegant script — Christian checked his watch.

"We should head back soon," he said, a hint of excitement in his voice. "I have a surprise for you at home."

Intrigued, Madison agreed, her mind racing with possibilities as they made their way back to Ivy Cottage. As they approached their home, she noticed an unusual number of cars parked nearby but thought little of it.

Christian opened the front door, gesturing for Madison to enter first. As she stepped into the darkened entryway, suddenly the lights flicked on, and a chorus of voices shouted. "Surprise!"

Madison gasped, her hands flying to her mouth in shock. The sitting room of Ivy Cottage was filled with familiar faces – her parents, John and Celeste and her brothers, Marcus and Liam and members of the Royal family as well as close friends of the couple.

"Oh my god," Madison breathed, tears of joy springing to her eyes. She turned to Christian, who was beaming with pride. "You did all this?"

He nodded, pulling her close. "Happy birthday, sweetheart."