111

111
Chapter 111

The royal convoy rolled out of the palace courtyard with a line of black cars gliding down the driveway under the morning sun. Guards stood stiffly at attention, saluting as the main car passed by. From the windows, it looked as though the king was inside, seated with his usual stern poise. Only those close enough would notice that the seats were empty except for the driver.

Azalea stood by the steps of the palace, her gown swaying lightly in the breeze. Her expression was the perfect picture of solemnity, her gaze following the departing vehicles as though her husband was really in them. She clasped her hands in front of her, exhaling slowly when the last car disappeared from view.

Inside, behind the thick curtains of his private chamber, Federico allowed himself a small, relieved breath. Miles, ever discreet, was already locking the door to the king’s wing.

“No one is allowed into this section until the guards return,” Federico instructed, his voice low but firm. “Only Vicky is permitted. If anyone asks, I’m away on royal business and unreachable.”

Miles bowed deeply, understanding the weight of the command. “Yes, Your Majesty.”

When he left, silence fell over the chamber. The king sat on the edge of his bed, rolling his shoulders as though shedding the invisible armor he wore daily. This was the first time in weeks that he had chosen to disobey tradition and stay behind, and though he would never admit it aloud, the relief of not walking into a trap was heavy but necessary.

Moments later, the sound of soft footsteps approached. Azalea entered, Vicky right behind her, holding a folder pressed against her chest.

Federico looked up at once, his expression softening when he saw his wife. “What’s that?” he asked, noticing the document she was holding.

Azalea smiled, a mix of mischief and pride in her eyes. “It’s a surprise.”

Federico arched a brow, curiosity sparking. He stood and crossed the room, taking the folder gently from her hands. As his eyes scanned the pages, his expression shifted — first a frown of confusion, then wide-eyed shock, and finally a slow, incredulous smile spread across his face.

“This…” He looked up at her, almost unable to believe it.

Azalea raised a finger to her lips, reminding him silently that no one could know he was here. He stifled the yell that had almost escaped him, shutting his mouth tightly before breaking into quiet laughter.

He set the folder aside and, without hesitation, scooped her into his arms, twirling her around the room. Azalea’s soft giggles filled the space as she clung to him, her heart swelling at the rare sight of him so unrestrained and joyful.

“You have just given me the best news of my life,” Federico murmured against her ear, his voice rich with emotion.

“I thought you’d like it,” Azalea replied softly, smiling into his shoulder.

He set her down only to kiss her deeply, his hands framing her face, his forehead pressed against hers when they broke apart.

The rest of the day passed quietly. Federico remained hidden in his chamber, communicating only through Miles when necessary. Vicky stayed close, slipping in and out with meals and updates, never once revealing the secret to anyone outside.

As night fell, the palace quieted, the distant noises of the guards’ activities fading away. The moon cast a silver glow over the royal chamber as Federico sat near the window, staring out into the gardens. Azalea walked up behind him, resting a hand on his shoulder.

“You’re thinking about tomorrow?” she asked softly.

He nodded. “I’m thinking about everything. About the attacks. About what might have happened if I had gone. About… us.” He turned to her then, his expression softening once more. “And about this little surprise you gave me.”

Azalea’s smile deepened. “I thought you’d need something to keep you from worrying yourself to death while the others are gone.”

Federico stood and faced her, taking her hands in his. “You’ve given me more than a distraction, Azalea. You’ve given me hope. Something to fight for isn't just a throne or a crown.”

They spent that night wrapped in each other’s arms, talking quietly as though the walls themselves might listen. Their conversation shifted from fears and worries to lighter things until they found themselves discussing baby names.

“What about Matteo?” Federico suggested, his thumb tracing lazy circles on her palm.

Azalea shook her head. “Too common. Everyone is naming their sons Matteo these days. I want something unique.”

“Fine, then,” he said, smiling. “What about Aurelio?”

Her eyes widened a little, considering it. “Aurelio…” She said it aloud, testing the sound. “It has strength in it. I like that.”

Federico’s smile deepened as he leaned in to kiss her temple. “Then Aurelio it is, if it’s a boy.”

“And if it’s a girl?” she asked.

He tilted his head thoughtfully. “Isabella? Or perhaps Lucia? Both sound like names fit for a queen.”

Azalea laughed softly. “You’re already calling her a queen?”

“She will be,” Federico said without hesitation. “Our daughter will be strong and proud like her mother.”

Azalea’s heart swelled as she looked at him, at the man she had once thought was cold and unreachable. Now, here he was, speaking of children and a future that seemed almost too good to be true.

They lay together beneath the soft sheets, the world outside forgotten for a little while. Every touch, every whispered word was a reassurance that despite the dangers surrounding them, they still had each other — and soon, they would have more.

When dawn broke, Federico was still awake, watching Azalea sleep peacefully beside him. He brushed a strand of hair from her face and smiled faintly. For the first time in weeks, there was no dread in his chest, no heaviness on his shoulders.

There was only the quiet determination that he would do whatever it took to keep this — to keep her, their child, and their future — safe.