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Adeline's Tea Gathering

With great care, I stepped into the gardens, determined not to become the queen known for her clumsiness at her first social event. The castle grounds were a testament to elegance, the roses blooming in rich colors while fountains humming a soothing melody.

Beneath the dappled shade of ancient trees, a long table dressed in pristine white cloth gleamed with fragile porcelain teacups, silver cutlery, and vases brimming with freshly plucked flowers. The breeze carried the heady scent of jasmine and lavender, lending an air of enchantment to the scene.

Around the table, noblewomen adorned in their finest garments sat in quiet grace. Their gowns, adorned with pearls and lace, glowed in the gentle afternoon light. At the center sat Cecelia, regal and poised, commanding attention. Conversations flowed around her, the topic of her attire holding center stage. She wore a stunning crimson gown, its bodice trimmed with black lace and delicate floral embroidery.

The soft hum of chatter filled the air as tea was poured from ornate silver pots into delicate china cups, the liquid glinting in the warm breeze. Platters of sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and intricately crafted pastries made their rounds, tempting everyone with their refined flavors.

Minstrels played softly in the background, their music mingling with the gentle clink of china. I moved gracefully through the gathering, exchanging pleasantries with the noble ladies, before taking my place at the head of the table. The conversation halted, all eyes turning toward me.

"Ladies," I began, offering a warm smile, "I thank you for joining me this morning.”

“I look forward to getting to know each of you better."

I lifted my teacup to signal the start of the tea party, the warmth of the tea soothing in my hands. Lady Arabella, seated across from me in a striking emerald gown, offered a smile.

"Your Majesty, your hospitality knows no bounds," she said, her voice soft and graceful.

"The gardens are simply enchanting this time of year."

"Thank you, Lady Arabella.”

"It is a joy to see my guests appreciate the beauty of our surroundings."

Arabella’s smile faltered slightly before she spoke again, her gaze sharper this time.

"Are the rumors circulating the kingdom true?"

The other ladies shifted in their seats; curiosity piqued. Cecelia’s eyes were fixed on me, unreadable.

"To which rumor do you refer?" I asked, keeping my tone measured.

"It is said that the king’s mistress has returned to his favor," Arabella continued, her words hanging in the air.

I held my composure, though the weight of the room's attention bore down on me.

"Perhaps Cecelia is better suited to address this matter."

Cecelia smiled, her tone unwavering.

"Indeed, Your Majesty.”

“It is true.”

“The king has restored me to my rightful place, but his heart is firmly captivated by our beloved queen."

Arabella's lips curved into a knowing smile.

"Will Prince Andrew be the next to wear the crown?"

"Andrew will inherit the throne," I said firmly, but Arabella was not finished.

"Is it true, then, that young Nathan is also the king's son?"

Before I could respond, Cecelia intervened.

"Nathan is the eldest, but he will not be acknowledged as Alexander’s heir.”

“However, he will be educated and groomed for a place of high standing."

A murmur swept through the table, the ladies exchanging glances behind their fans. The topic of Nathan stirred emotions, but I did not let the whispers rattle me.

"King Alexander has secured a future for Nathan," Cecelia continued smoothly, her voice silencing the murmurs.

"He will serve this kingdom in a different capacity."

The tea party carried on. The conversation shifted to lighter topics, yet the undercurrent of tension remained. Eventually, the gathering drew to a close. I bid farewell to each of the ladies with grace and courtesy. Lady Arabella lingered last, her gaze lingering on me as if contemplating her next move.

"Lady Arabella," I said, breaking the silence, "I hope you will join me again for tea next week."

"It would be my pleasure, Your Majesty," she replied with a sly smile before finally departing.

Once she was gone, Cecelia’s gaze locked onto mine, her expression sharp.

"What game are you playing, Adeline?"

I met her stare evenly.

"I am not sure what you are accusing me of, Cecelia."

"You seek to sway the court’s allegiance away from me."

"I am merely following Alexander’s wishes," I said, keeping my voice steady.

"I aim to conduct myself with respect and dignity."

Without another word, I turned on my heel and made my way back into the castle, heading straight for Alexander’s study. I knocked firmly, and his voice called from within.

"Enter."

I stepped inside and shut the door behind me. Alexander rose from his desk, his eyes bright with curiosity.

"How did the tea go?"

"I successfully dispelled any rumors about Cecelia’s position.”

"Lady Arabella has agreed to join me for tea every week."

Alexander nodded; his expression pleased.

"Good.”

“I want you to host gatherings at least once a month."

"As you wish.”

“Alexander, how did your conversation with Matthew go?”

"How did your conversation go?"

"He agreed to my terms.”

“Nathan will receive the education he deserves, but he will not contest Andrew’s right to the throne."

Alexander’s face softened into a smile.

"I have a surprise for you, Adeline."

He took my hand, leading me down the hall to the grand ballroom. When we entered, I gasped. A table for two had been prepared, draped in fine linen, rose petals scattered across the floor. Musicians played softly in the background as Alexander pulled out a chair for me, guiding me to sit.

The evening passed in blissful conversation. Alexander's mood lightened as the weariness left his features. When the meal ended, he took my hand, leading me into a dance. The flickering candlelight cast soft shadows on the marble floor. The music swirled around us as we moved in perfect harmony.

For a while, there were no worries, no burdens of the crown—just the two of us, lost in the moment. The night drew to a close. We made our way to the nursery, where Alexander gently lifted Andrew from his crib. He rocked him softly, humming until our son drifted back to sleep. After kissing his forehead, we quietly left the nursery and returned to our chambers.

Inside, the warmth of the fire welcomed us. I stood by the window, the moonlight casting a soft glow on the room. When I turned, Alexander’s eyes were on me, filled with affection. He stood, crossing the room to cup my cheek gently.

We embraced, our hearts beating in unison as we settled by the fire. Lost in quiet conversation and tender laughter. Eventually, I changed into a soft nightgown, joining Alexander in bed. His strong arms wrapped around me, and I rested my head on his chest, lulled by the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. Sleep began to claim me. I heard his soft whisper.

"Good night, Adeline."

"I love you," I murmured.

"I love you.”

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