Wedding day dawned gray and gloomy, with a steady rain falling. But by nine, the rain stopped, the clouds cleared, and the island of Marazur was clean and sparkling for the third royal wedding it had seen in a decade.

Stephani looked out her borrowed bedroom window and sighed, wistful but happy. Two people she cared deeply about were heading to the church today. The wedding was to be deceptively simple and elegant, but it had taken an amazing amount of planning for it to be so. An early breakfast buffet had been set up in the dining room so people could eat as their schedules allowed. A fleet of cars waited to transport guests and family to the cathedral. Security was already in place. The wedding party was small and intimate, with Raoul and Rose’s brother standing up with Diego, and Hayley and another close friend, Becca, as bridesmaids.

Lucy and Imogene were in charge of getting the children ready. Both girls were standing as flower girls, and the boys were escorting them up the aisle. Diego and Rose had insisted that since Max and Emilia had been little matchmakers, they needed to be part of the day.

Flowers had already been delivered and were in place. Stephani had been downstairs already to oversee the ballroom and the preparations for the feast that would happen later in the day. Marco was on standby for driving Diego, Raoul, and King Alexander. Now Stephani just had to get dressed, redo her makeup, and get to the church ahead of everyone else.

She’d picked a more subdued dress for the wedding, a sheath-style in classic navy, with matching heels and sapphire earrings and a necklace that Ceci had given her for her thirtieth birthday. Elegant and appropriate, but not flashy in any sense, and suitable for remaining in the background.

The face that looked back at her in the mirror frowned. She should be happy. This was a glorious day. Wonderful for the family and for the kingdom. Instead she was standing here feeling left out, like she wanted to belong as she had last night. Raoul could say all he wanted about her being family. Behind castle walls was one thing. The face they showed the world was quite another.

Lately it had caused more dissatisfaction than she was comfortable with. To be overly intimate in public would spark rumors. The media looked for any opportunity. She understood it completely, but nights like last night in the library underscored the loneliness she tried to ignore.

She changed her frown to her work-smiley-face and hoped it didn’t look fake. Then she grabbed her jeweled clutch to head downstairs to the back entrance, where she’d leave for the cathedral, ensure everything was working like clockwork, and do her job.

She met Raoul in the corridor and stopped short, catching her breath.

Seeing him in a tux dozens of times over the years should dampen the effect, but it didn’t. He looked utterly dashing—suave and powerful and sexy and with a presence that was both alluring and a little intimidating. “Raoul,” she said abruptly, pressing a hand to her chest. “I didn’t expect to see you.”

“I was coming to look for you. Slight kink in the works. Hayley has apparently come down with some sort of virus. She’s saying she can’t possibly attend.”

Her eyes widened. “And they sent the crown prince as a messenger?”

He shrugged. “Rose called Diego in a panic. Diego called me and we came up with a fix. Rose is totally on board.”

“A fix for a Maid of Honor? Really?” Her heart thudded. Of all the things to go wrong—losing a bridesmaid was huge.

“You,” he stated simply. “You’re nearly the same size as Hayley. You are going to stand up for Rose today.”

Oh, no. This wouldn’t do at all. Her stomach churned as she thought about it. “It shouldn’t be me. It should be someone close to her. A family member, a good friend.”

“She has a good friend with her, but even so, you two are friends. And you are family, Steph. Not sure when you’re going to believe it, but everyone knows how much you helped Rose and Diego find their way to each other. Rose is sending the dress to the church, and you can change there.”

“The dresses are champagne-colored. I need other shoes . . .” She looked up into Raoul’s amused eyes. “I can’t do this. I have to make sure everything else runs smoothly. It’s my job.”

Raoul reached down and took her hand, and she was momentarily stunned as his fingers squeezed hers.

“Stephani Savalas. You have planned this down to the minute and tiniest detail. Everyone knows their jobs. Trust them. Besides, we both know this isn’t about your job. It’s about you feeling like you don’t belong. Everyone here says you do. Maybe you should start listening.”

Problem was it hurt too much to listen. It gave her hope for something that could never be and that she could never truly voice for fear of ruining the relationship they already had.

He squeezed her hand again. “Go change your shoes. I have Marco on standby to take you to the church right now, and come back for us.”

“Okay.” She switched into crisis management mode and slid her hand out of his grasp. “Okay. Right. Bridesmaid down, filling in. Dear God, I hope that dress fits.”

Raoul chuckled. “It will. And honestly? I have a strange suspicion that Rose’s sister did this out of spite. Having the situation fixed so handily gives me a strange sort of pleasure.”

His eyes twinkled at her and she let out a breath. “She’s not a happy woman, is she? And doesn’t seem all that happy for Rose.”

“Which you are. So go. And I’ll see you at the altar.”

She turned to go back to her room, hoping he didn’t see how her mouth had fallen open at his last words. Good God. See you at the altar? It struck her that she would be paired with Raoul now, since he was serving as Diego’s best man. Every time she tried to keep her distance, something kept throwing them together.

Navy pumps were substituted for neutral slingbacks that would match the bridesmaid dress. She hustled to the back entrance and slid into the limousine. Marco smiled at her. “Beautiful day for a wedding, ¿sí?”

“It is. Thank you, Marco, for accommodating our new schedule.”

“It’s no problem. We always expect something to go a little sideways and we make adjustments. Everything will run smoothly, don’t worry.”

Maybe she did need to loosen her grip a bit.

She got to the cathedral in record time. The press and security were already present, and she scanned the area to make sure everyone was in their places. Marco was right—everything was running like clockwork. Once inside, Diego’s assistant, Sofia, was waiting with a garment bag. “Your dress.” She lifted an eyebrow. “And if that cow is sick, I’ll give up my salary for a year.”

“You have a copy of the day’s plans, right?” Stephani asked the question as she took the garment bag.

“I do. Between us this will be a breeze. Now go put this gown on. I have pins if we need to make any quick adjustments.” Her smile was just a little bit catty. “Hayley is a little hippier than you.”

The dress did end up being a little big through the waist and hips, though not much. A few deft safety pins from Sofia had the gown fitting nearly perfectly, with a few tiny puckers that would only be noticeable to anyone who knew to look. Her shoes matched fine and Sofia said the sapphire and pearl pendant was perfect. They emerged from the room in time to see the first of the guests being ushered inside.

“Your bouquet is coming with Rose and Becca,” Sofia said, referencing Rose’s friend. “You look gorgeous, Steph. So glam.”

“Thanks. I’m nervous.”

Sofia laughed. “You planned this whole thing without turning a hair, and this has you nervous? Relax. It’s going to be lovely.”

Sofia gave her a quick hug and left to check in with the ushers. It would normally be Steph’s job, but she forced herself to take a breath and loosen her death grip on the reins. Delegating wasn’t something she was always good at, but Sofia was proving herself up to any task she was given.

Thirty minutes later the guests were nearly all seated and families started to arrive. Rose’s sister-in-law was seated, then her parents. Brody went up the steps carrying baby Alyssa, Lucy and Imogene beside him, as well as the four children who would soon walk up the aisle as well. Alice and Emilia were dressed in sweet white dresses with champagne-colored sashes, little bouquets in their hands. Max and Alex were in miniature tuxes, their shoes shined perfectly. Before the day was out they’d likely be covered in dust, but for now they were pristine.

“Tía Stephani! You are beautiful!” Emilia came forward, her eyes shining. “I’m so glad you are here.”

“Me too, darling. Your dress is so pretty.” She gave the little girl a hug, knowing she must be missing her mother on such an occasion. She kissed Emilia’s cheek, then snuck a little glance at Alice, who looked uncomfortable and unhappy. “I’m sorry your mum isn’t feeling well,” she offered gently. “But you look lovely, Alice.”

Alice smiled a little. “Thank you.”

“Let’s go inside the doors where we can wait for the big moment, okay?”

She held out her hand to the girl. She knew what it was like to feel like you didn’t quite belong, and Alice was among strangers except for the small number of Rose’s family in attendance and the other children, who seemed to have easily accepted her. Annoyance slid through Steph. If Hayley wasn’t really sick, she was inconsiderate not just to Rose, but to her daughter as well, for leaving her alone on such a day.

Once inside, even the children were awed by the soaring ceilings, the crowd, and the profusions of flowers. Imogene knelt down before the four of them. “I’ll be sitting with Brody and Lucy, so I’m not far if any of you need anything, okay? You all look brilliant.”

Then she was gone, following behind Brody and Lucy to one of the front pews, leaving Stephani in charge of the lot.

It was only moments until the bride arrived, along with her bridesmaid, Becca. Steph took a moment to watch, entranced, as Rose emerged from the car, looking resplendent in her white gown. The cut was simple but the gown itself was not, with lace and pearls adding a timeless quality. Her veil drifted around her in the slight breeze, feather-light and magical. But most magical was the look on her face. It was a look of utter joy and excitement.

Becca helped her with the small train, then stood and handed the bride her bouquet. She reached back inside the car and took out two more—hers, and presumably Stephani’s as well.

Rose climbed the steps, then gave a half turn, waved at the gathered press and public, and laughed a little. She was so artless, so genuine. The press loved her, and so did Stephani. In a way, Rose’s kindness and strength reminded her of Ceci. The Navarro men did tend to choose strong women.

“You are stunning, but then, I knew you would be.”

Raoul’s voice tickled her ear, sending shivers down her spine. She took a breath, preparing herself to turn around and see him in all his tuxedoed glory. Still, the breath wasn’t enough. It wasn’t the suit that momentarily stopped her heart, though it was certainly a flawless cut, now adorned with an official sash of royal purple and red. It was his eyes that did it, warm with approval, never leaving her face.

This would be so much easier if she didn’t love him.

“Likewise,” she managed to say, offering a smile though inside she trembled. “Diego is here? Ready?”

“He is. Nervous and excited and shockingly ready for marriage. It’s very, very odd.”

She laughed a bit. “I think it’s lovely.”

Raoul rolled his eyes. “Right. It’s also a bit disconcerting. When someone is getting married, they think everyone else should as well.” He shoved his hands into his pockets. “This morning, Diego suggested that I consider marrying again.”

It felt as if someone punched her right in the solar plexus, but it wasn’t the first time so she merely shrugged. “A king needs a queen, I suppose.”

His brow furrowed. “I suppose, but that’s not what Diego said. He said I was too young to never love again. And that I should find someone to fall in love with and be happy.” His laugh was short but held a wealth of pain. “I’m afraid that’s over for me. I was extraordinarily lucky to have had it once. I’m not really looking to have it again.”

She couldn’t torture herself like this any longer. It wasn’t fair or healthy, and while she’d miss the Navarro family, she needed to make her own start. Cecilia was gone. Stephani would never be the one to capture his heart, and it had been utter foolishness to even entertain the slightest bit of hope.

But she would not think about it today. Today she would enjoy the wedding, and celebrate being with the people she loved. Tomorrow would be enough time to check up on her inquiries and make further plans.

“Rose is here, just behind the closed doors.” She looked over her shoulder to make sure. “You should be with Diego and Devon, ready to take your place with the priest.”

“Yes, ma’am.” He smiled. “I’ll see you up there.”

He turned to walk away, taking her heart with him. It hurt, but the last five minutes had solidified her decision to leave and it felt . . . right. Difficult, but right. She couldn’t get over him when she saw him day in and day out. And she had to get over him or live in limbo for the rest of her life.

Stephani snuck out the large doors to where Rose and Becca waited with the children. “Oh, Rose. You look so gorgeous.” A wistful sort of feeling swept over her. There was nothing quite like this moment, just before a bride took her walk down the aisle.

“Thank you,” Rose said quietly, her smile shaky. “I’m so nervous, Stephani. In less than an hour I’m going to be a princess. It’s suddenly so surreal.”

“It’s the press. They have that effect.” Stephani smiled, both at Rose and Becca. “Looks like I’m standing in today.”

Becca lifted an eyebrow. “I wish you’d stayed with us at the hotel last night, Stephani. It would have been more fun.”

Rose snorted. “This is typical Hayley,” she whispered, so that Alice wouldn’t hear. “I decided I won’t let it ruin a thing.”

“Good for you. And as far as the princess thing . . .” Stephani thought back to Raoul’s words, about Diego and marrying for love. “You’re becoming Mrs. Rose Navarro first. That’s all you need to think about today.”

One of the ushers gave her a nod, and she reached for her bouquet. “All right. It’s time.”

Rose inhaled sharply, and Stephani reached out to squeeze her hand. She was going to miss this family so much.

Becca carefully guided the children into their proper pairs and started them up the aisle at the correct intervals as a choir sang. Then Becca gave a smile and started up herself, clutching her bouquet and walking at the precise speed they’d rehearsed.

Then it was Steph’s turn.

She stepped to the door, saw the eyes on her, felt her stomach quiver with nerves. Her fingers tightened around the bouquet—she’d never been in a wedding before, not even Ceci’s. On that day she’d been a special guest, but not a bridesmaid. One step on the runner, then another. Step by step up the aisle, knowing deep down that today she was simply filling in and not a first choice.

Diego was at the front, Raoul beside him, and her knees wobbled just a bit as his gaze met hers down the long expanse of aisle. He was so strong, so determined, with such a good heart. Loyal to a fault, with broad shoulders to handle the responsibility he was born to and never asked for. He was, and likely would always be, her ideal.

But not hers.

No matter how much she wished it. His loyal, loving heart had been given away years ago, and the real kicker was that the very reason she couldn’t have him was one of the reasons she loved him so much. He was the kind of man who gave himself completely—to his kingdom, yes, but to his wife, to his children. She admired the ruler, but she loved the family man.

And still she couldn’t look away. Not until she got to her place at the altar, next to Becca and facing the back of the church again.

The pipe organ swelled and Rose stood to the door, her father beside her, his chest expanded with pride. A collective “oooh” went up from the guests as she stepped forward, a picture of bridal perfection. The procession was dignified and stately until she heard Diego clear his throat beside her, and she looked over. His lower lip trembled just a bit, and his eyes were suspiciously shiny. When Stephani looked back at Rose, she saw a wide, wonderful smile and blue eyes that glittered with happy tears.

A stinging started behind her nose, but she wouldn’t cry. She wouldn’t.

Rose reached the front and Stephani turned just a bit, only to encounter Raoul’s soft gaze. For a moment she wondered if he’d cry if she walked up the aisle, wondered what it would be like to meet him at the altar and take his hand.

Foolish dreams she’d held on to for too long.

The ceremony began with prayers and kneeling and blessings, moved on to vows and rings and a final kiss. Stephani held Rose’s bouquet when she took Diego’s hands in hers, then handed it back when it was over and they were preparing to leave the church and pose on the church steps before heading back to the palace for official pictures.

Rose clutched Diego’s arm and looked up at him as if he’d hung the moon and stars.

Stephani stepped down and Raoul held out his arm, waiting for her. She took it, feeling the fine, stiff cloth of his sleeve beneath her fingers.

“They’re happy.”

She nodded, tears fluttering against her eyelashes. “Very,” she replied as they began the walk back down the aisle.

Once on the cathedral steps, they stayed in the background while the press snapped pictures of Diego and Rose. After a few minutes, Raoul, Lucy, and Alexander posed as a royal family. Just for a few moments, then they would all head back to the privacy of the palace for more intimate photos.

Once the family photo op was over, Raoul returned to her side. “Are you ready to head back to the palace?”

She nodded. “I should change and check on the preparations for the rest of the day.”

He took her hand. “Let Sofia handle it. If she has questions, she’ll ask. You’ve trained her well, and this is an opportunity for her to step into a bigger role. She needs the confidence.”

“But . . .”

“But nothing. I want you to enjoy the day, Stephani. Not as my assistant but as someone who means a lot to me . . . to our family.”

She bit down on her lip. Maybe she should. Take this one day and etch it on her memory as a bit of a goodbye. If she left, there wouldn’t be any more royal invitations to balls or parties or state dinners, would there?

“As you wish,” she murmured, taking her hand out of his grasp.

He looked away and lifted his hand, signaling to Marco. Within seconds they were hidden away in the limo, sitting across from Diego and Rose who were beaming with happiness. Diego popped the cork on a bottle of champagne, making them all laugh, and poured the fizzy liquid into glasses.

“To happiness,” Diego toasted, lifting his glass. “And love.”

“To happiness and love,” they echoed.

As Stephani sipped the champagne, she wondered if it was possible for her to have happiness, since love didn’t seem to be in the cards.