The Billionaire Prince and His Secretary

Chapter 12

Ember POV

We walked out to the car, the palace staff bustling around us to ensure everything was in order. John opened the door for me, and I slid into the back seat.

Once we were inside, the car pulled away from the palace. The city outside the windows was alive with excitement, the streets lined with people eager to catch a glimpse of the royal wedding.

“I can’t believe I’m part of this,” I said with awe. I was a bit afraid that everything would come crashing down after this was over.

John glanced over at me, his eyes filled with warmth, which made me think that what we had was probably true and would go beyond that day. “You are here because you are important to me.”

I blushed at his words, looking out the window to hide my reaction. “Thank you, John,” I murmured.

We rode in comfortable silence for a while, the city blurring past us. As we neared the church, John’s expression grew more serious.

“Ember, there’s something I need to talk to you about,” he said.

I turned to him, sensing the gravity of his words. “What is it?”

He took a deep breath just as he pressed a button to put up the barrier between us and his driver. “Being with me, being part of this world I’m in, it’s not easy. You may know this already, as my secretary for many years and after living in the palace for a short time, so let this be a reminder: there will be scrutiny, criticism, and challenges. In addition to that, there are a lot of protocols to follow. I ask for more patience and understanding.”

“I completely understand, John,” I answered nervously. “But can we…I don’t know how to say this. I don’t want to assume anything about us. Can we act the way we were before–in public, at least? You were holding my hand in front of your family earlier. They saw it. Everyone in the photoshoot saw it. I’m not ready for the public scrutiny yet. I wasn’t ready for it in the office. How much more from the kingdom?”

“So…no holding hands, no kisses, and no sweet talk?” he asked, as if in pain.

“Yes, please. This happened all of a sudden. We went to New York for a weekend and everything since has been a roller coaster for me. Can we slow down, please?” I cast my eyes down low, unable to look at him.

“I’ll try my best, Ember, but I can’t promise,” John said.

I knew I shouldn’t ask for more, so I nodded.

We arrived at the church, the grand building towering above us. The steps were lined with flowers, and the guests were beginning to file inside. When Edmund parked the car, an attendant opened the door for us. I stepped out and a flurry of activity greeted us.

“Ready?” John asked, offering his arm when he stepped beside me.

I took it, my heart pounding with a mix of excitement and nerves. “Ready.”

There were photographers at the side taking photos of us, and then a few staff members, or probably part of the wedding organizers, approached us, guiding us where to go. We stayed on one side of the church while we waited for the bride to arrive. John kept Leo entertained, seeing that he was nervous.

When a staff member said the bride was already near, I knew it was time to go to my seat. John wanted to walk me there, but I stopped him. I could take care of myself and the groom needed him more.

Inside the church, the atmosphere was electric. The high ceilings and stained-glass windows created a sense of awe, and the murmurs of the guests filled the air. I found my seat near the front, and I couldn’t help but feel a rush of pride and joy as the ceremony began.

The bridal march started, and I saw John walk down the aisle. The ladies near me could not help but gush about him. When he saw me, he gave me a wide smile. I couldn’t help but smile back. The women kept looking behind their shoulders, wondering who John smiled at. I quickly pursed my lips and acted as if nothing happened.

Alya looked stunning as she walked down the aisle, her smile radiant. The vows were heartfelt and moving, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the church. As the newlyweds exchanged rings and sealed their vows with a kiss, the church erupted in applause.

After the ceremony and a short photoshoot, John took me and we made our way out of the church. There was a slight abuzz as I saw people murmuring when they looked at us, me holding on to John’s elbow. I took a deep breath knowing I couldn’t prevent another scrutiny from happening. I was once in the news before and probably would make it again the following day. As I only wanted to enjoy the day, I forced myself to forget what the people would think of me. John had my back and that was enough.

When we arrived at the grand ballroom of the palace, I couldn’t help but be in awe. It was decorated with an abundance of flowers and lights, creating a magical atmosphere. John and I were immediately surrounded by guests eager to make small talk, particularly businessmen eager to chat with the prince. We spoke to the CEO of one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in Solandia, discussing the latest advancements in the industry and potential collaborations. I was impressed by John’s ability to navigate these conversations with ease and grace, seamlessly blending charm with intellect.

Just as I thought we were about to join another circle of guests, a signal announced the arrival of the newlyweds. The room fell into an excited hush as Alya and Leo entered, looking radiant and blissfully happy. The program began with speeches, and John’s was a highlight.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” John began. His presence and his voice commanded the room’s attention. “I have known Leo practically my entire life. And let me tell you, I have more embarrassing stories about these two than I could ever recount in one speech.” The crowd laughed, and Alya shot him a playful glare.

John continued with a twinkle in his eye, “I remember one story my mom loves to tell. When we were just kids, Alya kissed Leo on the cheek during a playdate. She was so proud of herself, and Leo was mortified.” The room erupted in laughter, Alya burying her face in her hands. “So we know who will make the first move tonight.

“Alya, my twin sister, we don’t get to see each other often, but always know that I love you. Leo, my man, please make my sister happy always. The kingdom’s happiness is in your hands.” By then, a lot of the guests were already rolling in laughter. “The two of you, please don’t come to me for advice and make me choose someone’s side when you two fight each other.”

John ended his speech on a heartfelt note. “Alya, Leo, you are perfect for each other. Your love is inspiring, and I know you will make each other very happy. Here’s to a lifetime of love and laughter.” The applause was thunderous, and I couldn’t help but shed a tear or two, especially during the father-daughter dance that followed. King Jerry’s face was a picture of pride and emotion as he danced with Alya before giving her to Leo.

The food at the reception was beyond anything I had ever tasted, each dish more exquisite than the last. There were games that kept the guests entertained, and a popular singer performed, adding a touch of glamor to the evening.

When it was time for the bridal bouquet toss, names were called out, and to my surprise, I was the last to be called! “No way,” I whispered, feeling both honored and nervous.

Instead of the traditional toss, we were each given ribbons connected to Alya’s bouquet. One by one, the ladies’ ribbons released their hold as we stepped away from her until mine was the only left. Alya was laughing as I stood there, stunned.

“Looks like you’re the winner, Ember!” Alya exclaimed, handing me a beautiful, yet smaller, replica of her bouquet. Cameras flashed, capturing the moment, and I couldn’t help but feel a mix of joy and embarrassment.

Next up was the garter toss. John’s name was the first called, and he practically leapt to the front, looking excited and competitive.

The game was hilarious and fun, involving a series of challenges that John sailed through effortlessly. It wouldn’t surprise me if he had bribed Leo to let him win. He was ecstatic at having won the garter. He made me sit on the chair at the center of the stage and then he slid the garter up my leg with a mischievous smile. It was fun as the crowd cheered us on.

As the dance floor opened, John didn’t waste any time. He took my hand and led me to the center for a slow dance. We were the only couple at first, with the newlyweds making their rounds entertaining the guests. It made us the focus of almost everyone’s attention, especially when John held me close. “You have no idea how beautiful you look tonight,” he whispered, sending shivers down my spine.

I didn’t know what to reply to him, so I just smiled.

We danced through several songs, the world around us fading away. His whispered words grew more daring, making it hard to keep a straight face. Eventually, we decided to take a break as the dance floor filled up.

John was called away by his father, leaving me alone for a moment. I smiled at passing guests, trying to remain composed. After a while, a young man approached me. I recognized him as Dean, one of Leo’s friends from the military. He placed second to John in the garter toss game.

“Are you enjoying the evening?” Dean asked, his smile friendly.

“Yes, thank you,” I replied. “Just waiting for my boss to finish talking to his dad.”

Dean laughed. “John can be quite the talker, can’t he?”

Before I could respond, John reappeared beside me, drinks in his hands. He smiled, but I recognized the tension in his eyes. “Dean,” he said as he acknowledged the man’s presence. He was polite but cold.

Dean nodded. “I’ll leave you two. Enjoy the rest of your evening.”

John handed me my drink but never said anything after.