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“Sounds perfect,” she thought, leaning into his embrace.
“All right, folks, that’s enough for tonight,” James declared, gently steering Amanda through the sea of paparazzi. “We need to get to the reception.”
“Just one kiss?” a voice called out.
Amanda looked at James, and to everyone’s surprise, she stood on tiptoe and kissed her husband, lingering so they could get all the shots they needed of the kiss.
“Have a great trip!” someone shouted, genuine warmth in their voice.
Chapter Eighteen
Amanda held her breath as she stepped into the open horse-drawn carriage, the very same one that had whisked her away to the church earlier. James, ever the gallant prince, extended his hand for her to take, a playful glint in his eyes. “Ready for our journey as man and wife?”
“Of course,” Amanda replied, taking his hand and letting him help her settle into the plush seat beside him. She couldn’t help but smile at the anticipation that surged through her veins.
With a gentle cluck of his tongue, the driver signaled the horses to move forward. The carriage rolled smoothly along the cobblestone streets, and Amanda couldn’t help but marvel at how perfectly everything had fallen into place. She had married her prince charming, and now they were riding together toward their happily ever after.
As if sensing her thoughts, James squeezed her hand gently and leaned in closer, whispering, “I can hardly believe this is real, Amanda. I’ve dreamt of this moment for so long, and now it’s finally here.”
“Neither can I,” she confessed, feeling warmth spread across her cheeks.
As the carriage moved along, people lined the streets on either side, showering them with flower petals in a rainbow of colors. Pink, white, and yellow blossoms danced through the air like confetti, settling lightly on Amanda and James’s shoulders and laps.
“Look at all those petals! Do you think it’s a sign?” James grinned, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
“Maybe,” Amanda chuckled, brushing a stray petal from her hair. “Or maybe the town just has an abundance of flowers this time of year.”
“Either way,” James said, “I can’t think of a more beautiful way to start our new life together.”
“Me neither,” Amanda agreed, touched by the sentiment. She leaned her head against James’s shoulder, inhaling the familiar scent of him mixed with the fragrance of the flowers.
As they continued along the streets, Amanda let herself get lost in the moment, reveling in the joy and love that surrounded them. It was as if the entire country had come together to celebrate their union, and she couldn’t help but feel grateful for the support and well-wishes of their friends and neighbors.
“Are you ready for all the adventures that lie ahead?” James asked.
“More than ready,” Amanda replied.
The shouts of congratulations grew louder as the carriage approached the palace gates, a cacophony of well-wishes from their adoring subjects. Amanda’s cheeks flushed with pride and joy at the sight of so many people gathered to celebrate their union.
“Thank you,” James called out, waving in acknowledgment to the throngs of townspeople who had come to witness this historic event. Amanda couldn’t help but smile at her husband’s genuine appreciation for their support.
“Isn’t it amazing how everyone is just so happy for us?” she mused, trying to take it all in.
“Of course, they are!” James replied, beaming. “Their crown prince has just married the most wonderful woman in the world!”
Amanda chuckled, rolling her eyes playfully. “You’re not biased at all, are you?”
“Only slightly,” he admitted with a wink.
As the carriage neared the palace, the massive gates creaked open, revealing the splendid courtyard within. The sunlight glinted off the intricate gold leaf designs that adorned the royal residence, making it appear as if the entire structure was shimmering.
“Wow,” Amanda murmured as they passed through the gates, her eyes wide with wonder. “It’s even more beautiful than I remember.”
“Wait until you see the reception hall,” James teased, a mischievous smile dancing on his lips. “I think you’ll be quite impressed.”
Amanda shook her head in amusement, unable to hide her curiosity at what awaited them inside. As the carriage came to a halt at the entrance, James extended his hand to help her down, their fingers intertwining like the roots of two trees destined to grow together.
“Shall we?” he asked, his eyes twinkling with anticipation.
