Page 1 of Royal Compromise


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Chapter one

ARIA

I stroll down the charming streets of my hometown, a picturesque place filled with the aroma of freshly baked goods from my successful bakery, Sweet Delights.

At twenty-five, I’ve built a life surrounded by sugary delights and the sweet memories of my childhood. Rose, my best friend since kindergarten, is tying the knot soon, and I’ve been bestowed with the honor of being her maid of honor.

With Rose’s wedding on the horizon, my schedule is packed with cake tastings, dress fittings, and endless laughter.

As I breeze through my bakery, checking on the latest batch of delectable treats, I remember that Rose is supposed to be here, so I dial her number immediately.

“Hey, dearie, where are you?” I ask.

“Aria, sorry the traffic is something, but I’ll be there in a jiffy.”

“It’s okay, hurry up and get here, there’s many choices to be made,” I say before ending the call.

A few minutes later, the bell above the entrance jingles as Rose steps inside, her eyes widening in awe at the array of treats that surround her. The sweet aroma of freshly baked goods envelops us as I approach with a welcoming smile.

“Aria, this place is a dessert haven! I might never leave,” Rose exclaims, her excitement contagious.

I laugh, guiding her towards a table adorned with an assortment of mouthwatering pastries. “Well, you can stay as long as you want. This is your pre-wedding treat tasting extravaganza, after all.”

Rose takes a seat, her eyes gleaming with anticipation. “Lead the way, Maid of Honor! Show me the wonders of Sweet Delights.”

I can’t help but chuckle at the title she’s given me. “First up, we have the divine chocolate truffles. They melt in your mouth, and the cocoa dusting adds a touch of elegance.”

As she takes a bite, a delighted expression lights up her face. “Aria, these are heaven-sent! I need a mountain of these at the wedding.”

I grin, pleased with her reaction. “Consider it done. Now, let’s move on to the delicate macarons. They come in an array of flavors—raspberry, pistachio, and my personal favorite, salted caramel.”

Rose savors a pistachio macaron, her eyes closing in bliss. “I can’t decide which one I love more. Maybe we should just have all the flavors!”

I nod, enjoying her enthusiasm. “Why settle for one when you can have them all? Now, onto the pièce de résistance—the wedding cake samples.” I reveal a trio of miniature cakes with different flavor profiles.

Rose’s eyes widen with excitement. “Oh, Aria, they’re so cute! I almost don’t want to eat them. Almost.”

We share a laugh before diving into the cake tasting. With each forkful, we discuss the flavors, textures, and potential combinations. As we reach the last cake, Rose looks at me with a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

“I’ve heard of this tradition where the bride smears a bit of cake on the groom’s face. What do you think, Aria? Should I give it a try?”

I playfully raise an eyebrow. “Well, you know what they say—a little cake on the face is a sign of a sweet marriage. Just don’t blame me if he retaliates.”

Rose chuckles, imagining the scenario. “I’ll take my chances. Now, let’s talk about cupcakes. I want a tower of them at the reception, each one more tempting than the last.”

We spend the next hour discussing cupcake flavors, frostings, and decorations. The air is filled with laughter, as we share stories of our adventures growing up in Sweet Haven. Between bites of treats, Rose and I reminisce about our childhood escapades, creating a bond that transcends the wedding preparations.

As we finish our tasting marathon, Rose leans back in her chair, a satisfied smile on her face. “Aria, this has been the best day ever! I can’t wait for everyone to experience the magic of Sweet Delights at the wedding.”

I beam with joy, grateful for the opportunity to share my passion with Rose. “I’m thrilled you enjoyed it. Your wedding is going to be the sweetest celebration Sweet Haven has ever seen.”

With our plans solidified and the treats selected, Rose and I exit Sweet Delights, the bell above the door signaling the end of our indulgent adventure.

And so, with laughter echoing in the air, Rose and I part ways, our hearts light with the promise of a sweet celebration ahead.

As I settle into the cozy confines of my home, a pleasant exhaustion lingers from the delightful day spent with Rose. Just as I’m about to unwind, my phone buzzes, indicating an incoming call from her. I answer with a cheerful “Hey, Rose!”

“Hey, Aria! I forgot to remind you about the florist meeting tomorrow. It’s going to be a floral wonderland!”

Source: www.allfreenovel.com
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