I couldn't help the laugh that escaped me as my brother carried his new queen from the ballroom, her startled squeal still echoing against the high ceiling. Theo had always been the picture of royal decorum, the very embodiment of kingly restraint - until Emma. She had undone centuries of careful composure with a single glance from those green eyes of hers. Now the assembled nobility watched with expressions ranging from scandalized to delighted as the doors closed behind the royal couple, and I raised my glass in a final silent toast to their happiness.
"Well, that's certainly one way to conclude a reception," said a prim voice beside me. Minister Holloway adjusted his spectacles, mouth pinched in what might have been disapproval or poorly concealed amusement.
"My brother has waited nea
