This is the story of Princesse Matilda Victoria Eleanor de Galles. The Eldest daughter of Princess Catherine and William of Wales. The futur queen of England.
The evening air was crisp as Princess Matilda of Wales stepped out of the car and onto the grand stone steps of Westminster Abbey. The glow of the Christmas lights wrapped around the historic building cast a golden hue over the scene, and the faint scent of pine and cinnamon from the festive decorations filled the air. As she walked beside her mother, the Princess of Wales, she couldn't help but smile. This was one of her favorite events of the year—a time of music, warmth, and togetherness.
Inside the abbey, the flickering glow of hundreds of candles illuminated the majestic arches and stained-glass windows. The soft hum of a choir warming up in the background sent shivers down Matilda's spine. Music had always been special to her. She adored film scores, classic orchestral pieces, and even modern groups like Blackpink and BigBang, though she knew tonight's selections would lean more traditional.
"Matilda, does it feel different being here now that you're older?" her younger sister, Princess Charlotte, asked as they made their way toward the front rows.
Matilda tilted her head, considering. "A little," she admitted. "I understand it more now. When we were younger, it was just about singing and lights. But now, I can see how much effort goes into organizing everything. And how important it is for people."
Her mother turned back to look at her, a proud smile on her face. "That's exactly why we do this," the Princess of Wales said. "To bring people together, especially those who have worked so hard for their communities."
Matilda felt a warmth in her chest at her mother's words. She admired how effortlessly Catherine balanced warmth and duty, making everyone feel included. Tonight wasn't just about carols—it was about celebrating unsung heroes, people who had dedicated their time to helping others, whether through charity work, volunteering, or simply being a support system in their communities.
As they took their seats, Matilda glanced around the abbey. The royal family was here—her father, Prince William, sat beside her mother, looking relaxed yet dignified. Her brothers, Prince George and Prince Louis, were just behind them, Louis fidgeting slightly in his seat. Matilda held back a chuckle. He had been excited about the carols but probably less excited about sitting still through them.
The service began with a soft instrumental introduction, and then the choir's voices rose in perfect harmony, filling the abbey with the familiar melody of Once in Royal David's City. The sound was breathtaking, echoing off the stone walls and filling every corner with its rich, layered tones.
Matilda felt Charlotte gently nudge her. "Look at Louis," her sister whispered, trying not to laugh.
She turned and saw their youngest brother mimicking the choir's exaggerated expressions, his lips pursed as he silently copied the words. Matilda bit her lip to keep from giggling but exchanged a knowing glance with Charlotte. Their mother had noticed too, and though she gave Louis a soft look of warning, there was a sparkle of amusement in her eyes.
When the first hymn ended, a guest speaker took the podium to share a story of resilience—a nurse who had dedicated her time to supporting children's mental health services. Matilda listened intently, her admiration growing for the people honored here tonight. It reminded her of the lessons she had learned from her own school at Marlborough College, where service and leadership were encouraged.
After the speech, it was time for another carol. This time, it was Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, one of Matilda's favorites. She sang along, her voice blending with those around her. She loved moments like this—where the world felt connected, where music could dissolve differences and bring everyone together.
During a brief intermission, Matilda noticed her father leaning toward her mother, whispering something that made Catherine smile. Matilda was curious.
"What is it?" she asked quietly.
William turned toward her with an amused expression. "Just reminding your mother of the time she tried to play the piano in front of the cameras last year."
Catherine shot him a playful glare. "I did quite well, thank you very much."
Matilda laughed. "Mum, you were amazing. But I wouldn't mind seeing you try again."
Her mother shook her head with a fond smile. "Maybe next year."
The evening continued with more music and readings. One of Matilda's favorite moments was when a young school choir performed Silent Night, their voices so pure and delicate that it sent a wave of emotion through the audience. Even Louis sat still, enraptured by the sound.
When the final hymn, O Come, All Ye Faithful, began, the entire abbey stood. Matilda's voice joined the chorus, rising and swelling with the others, filling the sacred space with a sense of unity and celebration. As the last note faded, applause rippled through the congregation.
After the service, the family lingered for a while, greeting guests and speaking with some of the volunteers and honorees. Matilda found herself drawn into conversations with people who had made real changes in their communities. She loved hearing their stories—it inspired her to think about what she could do in the future.
As they finally stepped out into the cold December night, the streets of London twinkled with Christmas lights. Their car ride back to Windsor was filled with conversation.
"I think this was the best Carols Together yet," Charlotte said, stretching in her seat.
Louis, half-asleep against their father's arm, mumbled, "I liked the cookies."
Matilda chuckled. "Of course you did."
As they arrived home, there was a comforting sense of warmth despite the chilly air outside. The tree in their living room was decorated beautifully, and a few candles flickered on the mantel.
Matilda excused herself to her room, but instead of going to bed, she took out her notebook and jotted down a few thoughts.
Music, kindness, community. Bringing people together.
She had always loved those things, but tonight, she felt them even more deeply. Maybe one day, she would find her own way to make an impact.
For now, though, she was content. The holidays were here, and the warmth of family, music, and shared joy made it feel truly magical.
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