Royal ties : A Second Chance at love

Part 11

Part 11: Into the Public Eye

The day after the council meeting, YN and Alexia found themselves once again preparing for a high-profile public event—this time a charity gala that brought together Europe’s most influential figures. The event wasn’t just another royal duty; it was a critical moment for YN to show her ability to fit into the royal mold while remaining true to herself.

As they dressed for the evening, Alexia noticed YN’s silence. “You’ve been quiet since this morning,” she said gently, adjusting the emerald green gown she wore.

YN, wearing a tailored black dress, glanced at her through the mirror. “I’ve just been thinking about everything—the council, the scrutiny. This feels bigger than just us now.”

Alexia crossed the room, standing behind YN and wrapping her arms around her waist. “It is bigger than us. But we’re in it together, and that’s what matters. The gala tonight is another chance for people to see who you really are—who we are together. And no matter what, I’m by your side.”

YN leaned into Alexia’s embrace, taking comfort in her steady presence. “You always know how to calm me down.”

“That’s because I know you better than anyone,” Alexia said with a smile. “Now let’s go and show them how it’s done.”

The gala was held at one of Amsterdam’s most prestigious venues, an ornate building lit up by chandeliers and teeming with elegance. As YN and Alexia made their entrance, the flashes of cameras went off in rapid succession, and the hum of conversation quieted as guests turned their attention to the royal couple.

Walking hand in hand, YN and Alexia moved through the crowd with practiced ease. YN had attended numerous formal events in her business career, but this was different. There was an added layer of scrutiny that came with being a royal figure. She could feel eyes on her, people quietly analyzing her every move, every smile, every gesture.

They stopped to speak with several guests, from dignitaries to philanthropists, discussing the charitable causes that the gala was supporting. YN felt a sense of relief in these moments—this was where she excelled, engaging in meaningful conversations, connecting with people about real issues.

As the evening progressed, YN noticed a shift. There were fewer whispers behind her back, fewer skeptical glances. Instead, people seemed genuinely interested in her, asking thoughtful questions about her background, her work, and her relationship with Alexia. It was as if the interview and the council meeting had finally started to pay off.

By the time the night was over, YN felt a surge of confidence she hadn’t experienced in weeks. She and Alexia had navigated the evening flawlessly, and for the first time, YN felt like she was beginning to find her place in this royal world.

As they left the gala, Alexia turned to YN with a proud smile. “You were amazing tonight.”

YN smiled back, her heart swelling with gratitude. “I feel like I’m finally getting the hang of this.”

“You are,” Alexia agreed, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. “And they’re starting to see it too.”

But as they drove back to the palace, YN knew that despite the success of the evening, there were still many challenges ahead. The public’s acceptance was slowly growing, but the pressures of royal life would only intensify from here.

Still, with Alexia by her side, YN felt ready to face whatever came next.

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