AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Perfection is overrated,” Theodore replied, giving James a reassuring pat on the back. “What matters most is that you’re true to yourself and your feelings for Amanda.”
“Besides,” Eloise added, her eyes sparkling mischievously, “she’s bound to fall head over heels once she sees this beautiful setup you’ve created!”
“You two need to go away! This is not a spectator sport!” The sound of footsteps echoed down the corridor, signaling Amanda’s approach. His heart raced as he prepared to open the door and invite her into the romantic haven he had crafted just for her.
“Here goes nothing,” he whispered, his hand trembling as it grasped the doorknob. And with that simple twist, James stepped forward to convince Amanda to marry him and be his queen.
Amanda’s soft footsteps echoed as she entered the library, her eyes widening at the sight before her. The room was illuminated by the gentle glow of flickering candles, and the familiar scent of old books mingled with the subtle fragrance of roses. Her gaze finally settled on James, who stood in the center of the room with a nervous yet determined expression.
“James, what is all this?” she asked, her voice filled with surprise and curiosity.
“We need to talk,” James replied, doing his best to keep his voice steady. He took a deep breath and stepped forward. “There’s something I need to tell you, and I thought this place—surrounded by the books we both love—would be the perfect setting.”
Amanda’s heart raced, anticipation building within her as she watched James fidget with his tie. She had never seen him so flustered, and she couldn’t help but wonder what he had planned.
“Go on,” she encouraged, taking a seat at the table where the roses and gift were.
“Ever since we first met, I’ve been captivated by your beauty, intelligence, and kindness,” he began. “You’ve become my closest friend.”
The intensity of his gaze sent a shiver down Amanda’s spine, as she realized something major was happening.
“I know that I am a better man when I am with you, Amanda, and I can’t imagine my life without you by my side. With that said, and with my father’s blessing, I am asking for the honor of your hand in marriage.”
Amanda blinked back tears, touched by James’s heartfelt words and the effort he had put into creating this romantic scene. Yet, even as she looked at him, a nagging doubt tugged at her heart.
“James, I am honored by your proposal—truly, I am,” she said softly, hesitating before continuing. “A part of me wonders if you’re asking for my hand because you believe our marriage would protect you. You know my abilities, and I cannot help but worry that you see me as a safeguard rather than a partner.”
“Please, Amanda, believe me when I say that my feelings for you are genuine. While I won’t deny that your unique skills are impressive, they do not define you in my eyes. I care about you for who you are, not for what you can do. If I were simply seeking protection, I would have chosen another path. But I am asking for your hand in marriage because I cannot envision a future without you, and I promise to cherish and support you for the rest of our lives.”
As James finished speaking, he held out a small velvet box containing a stunning engagement ring. The sincerity in his voice and the love shining in his eyes finally broke through Amanda’s final defenses.
“Are you sure this is what you want? Have you spoken with your father?” Her mind reeled as he stood before her. She couldn’t even let herself look at the ring he held out.
“I’m absolutely certain. And my father gave me his mother’s ring so I could offer it to you as an engagement ring.”
“You want a true marriage? We’re not just pretending to marry so I can be close to you and take care of you?”
“I want a true marriage. Til death do us part and the next generation of royal children.”
Amanda was certain she was losing her mind as she responded. “Then yes. I’ll marry you, James.”
As he slid the ring onto her finger and pulled her into his arms for a kiss, it felt right. For a moment, everything felt perfect.
Chapter Ten
Amanda sat with Queen Beatrice. The two women were surrounded by stacks of wedding magazines and a flurry of planning materials.
“September seems like a perfect time for the wedding,” Amanda said, her eyes shining with excitement. “It’s not too hot, not too cold, just right. I’d love to get married in the garden.”
“The gardens are beautiful,” agreed Queen Beatrice, her regal voice carrying a note of warmth as she marked the date on her calendar. “The gardens will be in full bloom, and our people will have something to look forward to at the end of summer. But I’m afraid you need to be married in the Abbey.”
“Is that a royal thing?” Amanda asked, wondering why she couldn’t choose the spot for her own wedding.
The queen nodded. “I’m sorry, but that’s where you must be married since you’re marrying James. Theodore and Eloise will be able to choose, but not you.”
“I see,” Amanda said. She was willing to do whatever it took to make sure James was safe through all of this. “James has already told me he wants Theodore as his best man.” Amanda picked up a cup of tea and took a delicate sip. She’d spent little time with the queen, and she wanted to make a good impression on her. They’d be living in the same palace after all. Or she thought they would. She needed to talk to James about that.
“Ah, Theodore,” the queen smiled fondly at the mention of her younger son. “He’s quite the charmer, isn’t he? I’m sure he’ll do an excellent job.”
