CHAPTER 19

**AMELIA**
I leave the meeting room with Aaron and see the smile on his lips. His eyes convey approval and admiration as he expresses his appreciation for what I said in the meeting. He mentions that he would like me to participate more actively in the kingdom’s decisions as queen. I receive his words with gratitude, feeling encouraged by Aaron’s trust and support. I agree readily, thinking about the positive impact I can have by contributing to decisions that affect the well-being of the kingdom’s people.
We walk together for a brief moment, enjoying each other’s company, but soon Aaron has to say goodbye, reminding me of the responsibilities that await him. I nod, understanding Aaron’s need, and feel his lips brush gently against my cheek in a tender gesture before he disappears down the corridor.
A sigh escapes my lips as I continue to explore the castle, letting myself be enveloped by the majestic and imposing aura of the place. I appreciate the moments of tranquility and solitude, allowing myself to reflect on the day’s events and the possibilities the future holds.
As the night progresses, I prepare for dinner, changing into the elegant red gown I chose for the occasion. I descend the stairs with grace and determination, my hair carefully arranged and a serene expression adorning my face. Entering the dining room, I am greeted by the warm glow of candlelight and the tempting fragrance of food. The servants and staff are lined up, observing us with respect, and all bow in reverence as I approach. My crown rests with dignity on my head, a symbol of my position as queen of the kingdom.
Aaron rises upon seeing me, and a flash of pride shines in his eyes as he approaches. I return the gesture with a gracious nod before observing him gently pull out the chair for me to sit in.
“You look more beautiful every day, Amelia.”
The servants begin to serve dinner, and I am momentarily overwhelmed by the abundance of food before me. I am still not entirely accustomed to the opulence of the royal banquet. Aaron notices my hesitation and tilts his head, concerned.
“Are you okay? Is something wrong?”, he asks, his voice soft and reassuring.
I shake my head, a light smile playing on my lips.
“It’s just that… I’ve never had so many food options for dinner.”, I respond, honest in my admiration and gratitude for the abundance on the table.
Looking up, I notice the serious expression in Aaron’s eyes as he watches me closely. I wonder what he’s thinking as I continue to savor the dishes presented to me.
As we enjoy the food and wine, Aaron decides to start a conversation, wanting to know more about me.
“Tell me more about yourself, Amelia.”, he asks, his tone gentle and curious.
Surprised by the question, I paused for a moment, pondering how to respond.
“About me? What do you want to know?”, I ask, curious about his true intention behind the question.
He seems to think for a moment before formulating his next question.
“Your family. Where is your father?”, Aaron asks, his eyes fixed on mine.
The question brings up painful memories for me, and for a moment I remain silent, struggling to control the emotion that threatens to overflow.
“He’s… dead.”, I finally respond, my voice a whisper laden with sadness and longing.
Aaron watches me with compassion, understanding the pain his loss must have caused me. He reaches out and gently touches my hand, a gesture of comfort and solidarity in the midst of my pain.
“I’m so sorry for that.”
I am immersed in a silence heavy with emotion when the king, my husband, breaks the weight of the moment with a delicate question:
“Do you miss him, Amelia?”
I look at him, my eyes reflecting the sadness that still echoes in my heart.
“Every day and every night, but right now I miss my mother.”, I respond, my voice trembling slightly with contained emotion.
Aaron watches me with compassion, recognizing the pain I carry in my chest. He offers me a promise of solace:
“You can visit her tomorrow.”
The news takes me by surprise, making me lift my head quickly, my eyes widening in astonishment at Aaron’s generosity.
“What?”, I respond, incredulous.
He repeats his offer, his gentle smile reflecting the emotion on his face.
“You can visit your mother tomorrow, Amelia.”, he confirms, his eyes shining with tenderness as he watches my reaction.
A shy smile forms on my lips, and I feel tears begin to fill my eyes. It is a mix of gratitude, relief, and longing that moves me deeply.
“Thank you…”, I murmur, my voice choked by the tears that threaten to overflow.
Aaron smiles, touched by the emotion on my face. He looks at me tenderly, promising himself to do everything in his power to bring a ray of happiness to my eyes.
“I promise I will spend every day of my life trying to make you happy and win your heart.”, he declares, his words filled with sincerity and commitment.*
I remain silent, absorbing Aaron’s promise, while my mind turns again, thinking about the curse that plagues the kingdom and the responsibilities that fall upon my shoulders as queen.
Dinner ends, and I retire to my room, where the ladies-in-waiting help me undress from the long gown. I am immersed in my own thoughts when I hear the door of the room open. I turn, finding Aaron entering the room seconds later.
Furthermore, I see him enter the room, and my ladies-in-waiting bow before him and quickly leave the room. I am dressed only in a long nightgown, my hair cascading over my shoulders as I turn to face him. Aaron removes his clothes with the grace of a king, and I watch every movement, my heart beating wildly in my chest. I am still overwhelmed by his generosity in allowing me to visit my mother the next morning. This gesture of compassion and love has left me in a state of deep gratitude.
When he approaches me, I remain still, feeling his closeness warm my skin. Aaron gently holds my hand, placing it over his heart as his gaze penetrates mine.
“Promise me you will return tomorrow; promise me that, Amelia.”, he asks, his voice filled with urgency and concern.
I blink, my eyes fixed on his face, my mind absorbing the seriousness of his words.
“I promise, I will return to the castle tomorrow before nightfall.”, I respond, my voice soft but determined.
Aaron looks at me deeply, a flash of worry crossing his royal countenance.
“I am not asking this for myself, but for everyone in this kingdom. You must return, please.”, he insists, his words resonating with a mix of plea and responsibility.
I nod, feeling my own heartbeat echo in my ears.
“I promise.”, I repeat, my voice choked by the emotion that threatens to overflow. I understand the gravity of what Aaron is asking and am determined to honor my word.