ADELE’S POV

The music swelled, soft and elegant, strings weaving through the air like silk. Everyone’s attention turned to the raised dais where Emilia stood beside the king, her silver gown catching every flicker of candlelight. She looked like a queen straight out of a fairy tale—radiant, confident, hand resting lightly on her small belly bump.

She raised her glass—sparkling cider, of course—and smiled out at the crowded hall.

“I want to thank each and every one of you for being here tonight,” she began, voice clear and warm. “It means the world to me—to us—that you traveled from near and far to celebrate with us. I am deeply honored...