Epilogue
EPILOGUE
The castle of Edelforst had never looked so good. Chandeliers glittered, mirrors shone and flowers scented the air as guests mingled in the ballroom.
From the minstrels’ gallery above, music began and the guests retreated to the sides of the room. Annalena watched a couple approach and her breath caught. Even now her husband had that effect, especially when he wore formal evening dress.
They’d been married a year today. A year that had been blissful and challenging. They were both strong-willed and didn’t always see eye to eye, but the promise of honesty had seen them through both testing and wonderful times.
In his stark clothes Benno looked incredibly sexy but serious, as befitted a king. But then, uncaring of the crowd, he lifted his hand and blew her a kiss, stealing her heart all over again. There was a ripple among the throng as women sighed in delight.
The man Annalena had met a year ago was still there, conscientious and determined. But now Benno embraced happiness with an enthusiasm that transformed him.
She smiled as he escorted her Oma, resplendent in navy and silver, onto the dance floor. Annalena turned to the man beside her. Young and handsome, Harald Ditmar said, ‘Ready, Your Majesty?’
She nodded first at Harald then at his beaming grandfather, the colonel, who sat with his ankle strapped up. ‘Absolutely.’
The crowd applauded as the musicians struck up a waltz. Annalena circled the room with Harald, while Benno and Oma danced in the opposite direction.
Incredible to think it was only a year ago that she’d attended her first royal ball.
Now, confident in her abilities and in Benno’s affections, she no longer felt like a fish out of water.
She actually enjoyed dressing up once in a while, though she’d remove the emerald and diamond tiara after the dancing.
When the waltz ended the couples met. Oma’s cheeks were flushed and her eyes glittered as she thanked Benno for the dance. ‘But one waltz is enough for me.’ She turned to Harald. ‘Let’s go and check on your grandfather, young man.’
‘She really is a wonderful lady,’ Benno murmured as the pair left and he gathered Annalena close.
‘She’s absolutely delighted we’re celebrating our anniversary here.’ His smile warmed her as the music began and other couples spilled onto the floor. ‘Thank you for suggesting it.’
He shrugged as they began dancing. ‘It’s good to celebrate with family. Besides, we can head up to the chalet tomorrow for a break.’
He’d bought the chalet where they’d honeymooned as a belated wedding gift. Weekends there were some of their happiest times.
As they moved down the room Annalena frowned. ‘They’re playing the same music again, that’s unusual.’
‘I asked them to. Do you like it?’
It was light and lovely. ‘I do. I’ve never heard it before.’
Golden brown eyes met hers. ‘You wouldn’t have. It’s “Lena’s Waltz”. I commissioned it for you. Happy anniversary, my love.’
Annalena’s eyes widened and she would have stumbled but for Benno’s encircling arm.
‘You commissioned a waltz?’ What an amazing gift, especially from a man who’d once been totally absorbed in business and strategy, with no time for anything that wasn’t ‘useful’.
But her husband was caring and thoughtful and knew how she enjoyed music. ‘Oh, Benno. That’s…’ She swallowed.
He tsked in mock admonishment but smiled tenderly as he swung them into a turn. ‘No need to get emotional.’ He pressed a kiss to her forehead. ‘But I love that you like it so much.’
‘Like it? It’s so special.’
‘ You’re special.’
There she was blinking again but how could she help it when he looked at her like that? On the other hand she did have another reason for feeling a little emotional. ‘You’ll have to wait until we’re at the chalet for your gift.’
How would he react to the news she’d had confirmed this morning, that they were going to be parents?
She didn’t have to wonder. She knew he’d be thrilled, and he’d make the best father.
His breath tickled as he murmured, ‘You’re plotting something, Lena. Perhaps I’ll have to persuade you to tell me about it when we’re alone tonight.’
She grinned in anticipation, thinking of Benno’s persuasiveness. Besides, they’d promised not to keep secrets and this was one she couldn’t wait to share.
‘That sounds like a wonderful idea, Your Majesty.’