The motorcade of sleek, black cars glided down the cobblestone path leading from the King’s palace into the heart of the kingdom. Jess sat beside Luca in the lead car, her hands folded in her laps, her knuckles white. She felt the weight of the day pressing down heavily on her shoulders. Every glance outside reminded her only of the daunting task that waited. Crowds gathered in the town square to meet their leaders; their faces were a blend of hope and scepticism.
Luca reached over, resting his hand on hers. “You do know you are not alone in this yeah? I’m going to be right by your side.”
Jess turned to him, her expression softening. “I know, Luca. But I need them to see me as more than just their Queen. They need to know that I am willing to fight for them whenever they need me.”
He st
