chapter 30: the wedding

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The morning of the wedding dawned crisp and clear, the golden sunlight spilling over the palace grounds. Birds sang softly in the gardens, their melodies blending with the gentle hum of anticipation that filled the air. For Julie, it was a surreal moment. Standing in her dressing room, she felt as if she were at the center of a storybook, one she could scarcely believe was her own.

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The Final Touches

“Take a deep breath, Lady Julie,” Madame Fleur said as she fastened the final pearl clasp on the back of Julie’s gown. The intricate lace fabric fit her like a glove, cascading down into a train that shimmered faintly in the sunlight.

Ella adjusted Julie’s veil, her face alight with pride. “You look like a queen already.”

Julie glanced at her reflection, her heart racing. She barely recognized the woman in the mirror. The gown, the delicate tiara resting in her hair, the soft blush of excitement on her cheeks—it was all so different from the girl who had worked tirelessly in Perinn, juggling two jobs to keep her father afloat.

But beneath the transformation, she still felt like herself—nervous, hopeful, and deeply in love.

“What if I trip?” Julie whispered, smoothing her hands over the front of her dress. “What if I forget what to say?”

Ella laughed gently. “You won’t. And even if you do, Xavier will catch you. You’re not doing this alone, remember?”

The reminder calmed her nerves, and Julie took another deep breath. This wasn’t just her moment—it was their moment.

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The Procession

The royal chapel, nestled within the palace grounds, had been transformed into a vision of elegance. White roses and lilacs draped over every pew, their scent mingling with the soft candlelight. Guests from all corners of the kingdom filled the space—nobles in their finest silks and velvets, alongside commoners who had been invited to witness the historic day.

At the altar, Xavier stood tall, his polished boots gleaming and his royal sash perfectly in place. Yet his composed demeanor faltered as the doors opened, revealing Julie at the end of the aisle.

She was radiant, her gown glowing softly in the sunlight streaming through the stained-glass windows. But it wasn’t just her beauty that took his breath away—it was the quiet strength in her eyes, the determination in her step, the way she met his gaze with a love that mirrored his own.

Kole, standing beside Xavier as one of his groomsmen, nudged him with a grin. “Breathe, brother. You’re about to marry the woman of your dreams.”

Xavier barely heard him. His focus was entirely on Julie as she walked toward him, her arm linked with Sebastian’s—a symbolic gesture from the royal family.

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The Ceremony

The officiant began with the traditional blessings, his voice echoing through the chapel. Julie tried to focus on his words, but her heart was pounding so loudly she could barely hear.

When the time came for their vows, Xavier reached for her hands, his touch steady and warm.

“Julie,” he began, his voice soft but firm, “you’ve brought light into my life in ways I never imagined. You’ve shown me strength, compassion, and love beyond measure. Today, I vow to stand by your side, to protect you, to cherish you, and to honor the extraordinary woman you are—for the rest of my life.”

Tears pricked Julie’s eyes as she listened, her heart swelling with emotion.

Taking a shaky breath, she began her own vows. “Xavier, you’ve given me a home I never thought I’d have. You’ve shown me that love is not just about grand gestures, but about kindness, understanding, and unwavering support. I promise to be your partner, your confidant, and your greatest ally. Whatever the future holds, I’ll face it with you.”

The room seemed to hold its breath as they exchanged rings—symbols of their union, simple yet profound.

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The First Kiss

“You may now kiss the bride,” the officiant declared, his voice breaking the reverent silence.

Xavier stepped closer, lifting Julie’s veil with careful hands. For a moment, they simply looked at each other, the weight of the moment sinking in. Then, he leaned in, pressing a tender, lingering kiss to her lips.

The chapel erupted in applause, the sound ringing like a symphony of joy. Outside, the bells of the palace began to toll, their deep chimes announcing the union to the kingdom.

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The Celebration

The reception was held in the palace gardens, a sprawling event that blended the splendor of royalty with the warmth of the people. Lanterns hung from the trees, casting a golden glow over the festivities, and long tables were laden with delicacies from every corner of the kingdom.

Julie and Xavier shared their first dance beneath the stars, moving in perfect harmony as if the world had melted away, leaving only the two of them.

“You’re doing it,” Xavier whispered as they swayed to the music.

“Doing what?” Julie asked, looking up at him with a soft smile.

“Capturing everyone’s hearts,” he said, his voice filled with pride. “But then, you’ve always had mine.”

Julie laughed, the sound light and full of happiness. “You’re not so bad yourself, Your Highness.”

Throughout the night, the couple mingled with guests, sharing stories and laughter. The royal brothers, true to form, kept the atmosphere lively, teasing Xavier mercilessly while offering Julie heartfelt welcomes into the family.

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A Private Moment

As the celebration wound down, Xavier led Julie to a secluded balcony overlooking the gardens. The lights twinkled below, and the air was cool and still.

“This is just the beginning,” Xavier said, taking her hands in his.

Julie nodded, her heart full. “I know. And I’m ready.”

He smiled, leaning in to rest his forehead against hers. “With you by my side, I feel like we can face anything.”

They stood there in silence for a moment, the weight of their new journey settling over them. But it wasn’t heavy—it was full of promise.

“I love you,” Julie whispered, the words carrying every ounce of her devotion.

“And I love you,” Xavier replied, sealing his promise with another kiss.

In that moment, under the vast night sky, their hearts beat as one. And as the kingdom rejoiced below, the newlyweds embraced their future together, ready to face whatever it held.

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