Royal: Epilogue

Instructions

I GRABBED Hana’s hand, pulling her down the aisle. “Do you want to or not?” I whispered. “I do, I’m just so nervous. Will your people accept me?” “They’re your people now, too. If they don’t accept you, I’ll make them.” She looked into my eyes. “Are you sure?” “Of course! Why do you think I— we wanted to do this?” Hana took a deep breath, looking me straight into the eye. “I’ll be fine now, thank you.” “Are you quite sure?” “Do I love you?” I grinned. “I hope so.” “I do,” she whispered, squeezing my hand. By that time, we had made it to the end of the aisle. “Are you ready?” Father asked, eyes wild and grinning. “Of course!” Hana exclaimed. “Yes, Father.” “Welcome, Kemarans,” Father began, and commenced with the ceremony. I turned my head to the crowd that was now seated in the pews. The front row held Prince Edward of Albannak, Princess Maeryn of Albannak, and King Fortitude of Albannak. My cousin, his wife, and my uncle. All from the country that had gone to war with us over the princess, who had been engaged to both me and my cousin. I gave Edward my best glare, and I turned back to face my father. I took a deep breath when he finished. I turned toward Hana and lifted the veil out of her beautiful eyes. She draped her arms around my neck and kissed me. I kissed her back. This kiss felt different from the other times I had kissed her. Like this was what mattered. The people cheered and stood up, throwing their hats into the air. I pulled away from Hana and turned to face the crowd, Hana’s arm in mine. We made our way to the ballroom for the reception. I danced the first two dances with Hana before we were separated by the other people wanting to dance with my bride. Hana gave me an encouraging smile as I met up with Edward. “Finally reeled in your catch?” he asked, eyes on Hana. “I guess so,” I said, surprised at how decent he was being. “I’m happy for you. You two are a good match. I’m just glad the war got sorted out fast enough for me to get out of there.” I nodded in agreement. If he hadn’t gotten out of the way, I might have forced my way in. “I’m just glad Maeryn doesn’t have you to worry about,” my cousin spat. I glared at him. “I’m glad Hana doesn’t have to worry about a jerk like you!” I retorted. I turned away and wiped my shoes on the floor before continuing to walk to Hana. The last dance was a waltz. Hana’s skirt swished gently at my ankles as I looked into her eyes. This is it. I thought. We’ve finally made it. The music ended. I kept Hana in my arms and bent down to kiss her again.