Picture Perfect Royal Christmas☑️

Chapter 2: A Royal Arrival

Sophia had never seen anything like it. As the royal car whisked her away from the bustling city and through the countryside, she marveled at the pristine snow-covered hills and towering evergreen trees lining the road.

The Royal Palace of Wyndham loomed ahead, its grand stone walls rising against the winter sky, bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun.

Icicles dangled from the palace's high towers like jewels, and twinkling lights wrapped around every balcony and window. It was a true winter wonderland.

Her heart pounded as the car pulled up to the palace gates, which swung open with regal grace. She took a deep breath, steadying her nerves. This was no ordinary Christmas celebration—this was royalty. She clutched her camera bag tighter, hoping the butterflies in her stomach would soon settle.

As the car came to a stop at the grand entrance, a palace attendant opened the door and helped her out. Sophia's breath caught in her throat as she looked up at the towering, ornate doors before her. This was really happening.

"Sophia Bellamy?" A voice called her name, and she turned to see a smartly dressed woman approaching, her posture straight, her smile warm but professional.

"Yes, that's me," Sophia replied, trying to keep her voice steady.

"I'm Lady Charlotte Hastings," the woman introduced herself, extending her hand. "Welcome to Wyndham. I'll be showing you around the palace and making sure you have everything you need during your stay."

Sophia shook her hand, feeling a little more at ease. Lady Charlotte was graceful and elegant, but there was a kindness in her eyes that made Sophia feel less like an outsider.

"Thank you," Sophia said, managing a smile. "I'm still wrapping my head around all of this. It's... breathtaking."

Charlotte chuckled softly. "It can be overwhelming at first, but you'll find that the palace is just as much about family as it is about grandeur—especially at Christmas. Come, let's get you settled."

As they made their way inside, Sophia's eyes widened at the interior of the palace. The entry hall was a masterpiece of marble floors, high vaulted ceilings, and massive chandeliers that sparkled with holiday lights. Evergreen garlands, gold ribbons, and red velvet bows adorned every surface, giving the palace a warm, festive atmosphere. The scent of pine and cinnamon filled the air, and the sound of distant carolers echoed through the halls.

"I'll take you to your room first," Lady Charlotte said, leading Sophia down a long corridor. "After you've had a moment to freshen up, you'll meet the royal family. They're eager to begin the Christmas portraits."

Sophia's heart skipped at the thought of meeting the royal family. She had seen their pictures in magazines, read about them online, but actually meeting them in person felt surreal.

Lady Charlotte stopped at a set of elegant wooden doors and opened them, revealing a cozy yet luxurious guest room. A fire crackled in the fireplace, and a massive four-poster bed sat in the center of the room, covered in rich red and gold linens. Snowflake-shaped ornaments hung from the windows, and a small Christmas tree twinkled in the corner.

"This is incredible," Sophia breathed, stepping inside.

"Please take your time," Lady Charlotte said with a smile. "Dinner is at 7:00, and the portraits will begin shortly after. I'll come to collect you before then."

Sophia thanked her and, once alone, let out a deep breath. She placed her camera bag on the bed and looked around in awe. It all felt like a dream—a beautiful, magical dream.

After taking a moment to freshen up and gather her thoughts, she dressed in a simple yet elegant outfit, her nerves fluttering once more. She was about to photograph royalty, after all.

A soft knock on the door pulled her from her thoughts. It was Lady Charlotte again, this time with a kind smile. "Ready?"

"As ready as I'll ever be," Sophia replied, laughing nervously.

They made their way back through the palace, this time toward the family's private drawing room where the royal family was gathered. Sophia's stomach fluttered with anticipation. Would they be formal and distant? Warm and welcoming? She couldn't help but wonder what Prince Nicholas would be like in person.

Lady Charlotte opened the door, and Sophia stepped inside. The room was intimate, despite its size, with a large Christmas tree in the corner and a fire roaring in the hearth. And there they were—the royal family.

King Edward stood tall by the fire, looking every bit the dignified ruler. Queen Isabella sat on a plush chair, her regal presence softened by the warm glow of the firelight. Princess Eleanor sat beside her mother, her bright smile immediately putting Sophia at ease.

But it was Prince Nicholas who caught Sophia's attention. He was standing by the tree, laughing at something his sister said. When he looked up and their eyes met, the room seemed to stand still for a moment.

"Sophia Bellamy," King Edward's voice broke the spell. He stepped forward with a smile. "Welcome to Wyndham Palace. We've heard much about your work."

Sophia curtsied awkwardly, feeling her cheeks warm. "Thank you, Your Majesty. It's an honor to be here."

"Please," Queen Isabella said with a gracious smile, "call us by our names. We're a family tonight, not just royalty."

Nicholas stepped forward then, his smile charming. "Sophia, it's a pleasure to finally meet you. I hope we're not too intimidating."

Sophia laughed, feeling some of her nerves dissipate. "Not at all, Your—Nicholas. It's a pleasure to be here."

As the family gathered for their first portrait, Sophia lifted her camera and took a deep breath. This was just the beginning of what was sure to be an unforgettable holiday—and perhaps something more.