Chapter 592
August 8th was Kiera's wedding day. Unlike typical noble ladies, Kiera and Helen returned to the palace the night before, accompanied by Carissa. Henrietta and Meredith stayed close, hoping to soothe Kiera's pre-wedding nerves and share advice on life with a prince consort.
Henrietta said, "The Quinton and Young families are among Starhaven's most distinguished scholarly families. They're known for being harmonious, though they do have rules. But honestly, how do their rules compare to the royal palace? Besides, you're a princess with your own estate. You don't need to worry about their opinions. Your in-laws are kind-hearted; your father-in-law is almost childlike. If you ever want to visit the Quintons, no one would dare trouble you."
Kiera was well aware of these details. Her father-in-law had suffered a childhood head injury, and her mother-in-law, knowing him since childhood, married him regardless. Together, they had Logan and his sister, Crystal—all easygoing people. Kiera wasn't nervous; she wasn't sure why everyone assumed she would be. She decided to play the part of the anxious bride; it seemed more fitting. After all, if it made everyone happy, why not? Life was but a play.
Dressed in her bridal finery, the intricate phoenix crown framed her delicate face. Her eyes shone with a bright, honest sparkle. Kiera radiated warmth and tranquility, lacking any sharpness or regality.
Kylie, the eldest prince, and the second princess arrived; Kiera was marrying Kylie's cousin, requiring Kylie's assistance with preparations.
Sylvia, the king's favored concubine, paid a brief congratulatory visit, her demeanor as haughty as ever. A glance at Carissa left the latter bewildered; dealing with Sylvia was never easy.
When the time came, officials from the Ministry of Protocol and the Heritage Bureau announced the edict at the eastern steps of the ceremonial gates. Logan knelt to receive it, his heart brimming with joy. He cared little for royal customs; he only wanted to cherish Kiera, as his parents had each other.
Accompanied by Kylie and Carissa, Kiera first bowed in farewell at the family chapel, then greeted her mother and the queen dowager.
Tears welled in Victoria's eyes as she embraced Kiera. Nearby, Helen struggled to understand maternal tears at such an occasion. It wasn't as if Kiera was entering a den of dragons. However, seeing Victoria cry prompted Helen to join in, dabbing at her eyes with her handkerchief, though no tears flowed.
Victoria held Kiera close, her voice choked with emotion. "I still remember the day you were born," she said. "You were a rosy little bundle, crying so loudly! You've always been such a good child, charming everyone. Even those who disliked your mother adored you."
Dakota and Josephine exchanged awkward smiles, clearly the recipients of Victoria's remark. It was true; they hadn't cared much for Helen, but her children were delightful—especially Kiera. The little girl's sweetness, bounding towards them with tiny legs and calling them "aunt," was endearing.
Reflecting on those times brought tears to their eyes; that little girl was now a bride.
Soon, officials from the Heritage Bureau and the Royal Management Department urged Kiera onward. She took her time, bowing in farewell to the queen dowager, her mother, and the other concubines.
As the white veil was placed over Kiera's head and attendants guided her out, a wave of sadness washed over Helen, tears spilling unexpectedly. She finally understood: her daughter, always at her side, was becoming another's wife. The days of Kiera calling her "Mom" and staying close were ending.
Overwhelmed, Helen felt Carissa's hand grip hers. The tears she'd tried to hide fell under her daughter-in-law's gaze. Carissa sighed softly; she couldn't bear to see women cry; it pained her heart.