Everly

Sage has been in contact with his sister and Mom for the past few days. From what we can tell, things are calming down, but his father is not one to admit defeat. The media was in a frenzy when an official notice came from the palace saying Prince Sage was no longer being banished, but it didn’t say anything more.

Just like everything within the palace walls, King William’s way of dealing with this seems to be just sweep it under the rug. Sage is used to how things run there and kept reassuring me that no news is actually good news.

When we got word that a new family picture was to be taken, he knew the feud was over. This was going to be how King William dealt with it. There would be a new family photo taken with both Sage and me included in it.

Even though we pushed the limits of every royal expectation, even Sage didn’t want to mess with this tradition.

The way he looks—dressed in his official Prince attire—almost brings me to my knees. Handsome doesn’t begin to explain it. A gorgeous king who rules over his country with ease and respect comes closer.

He laughs at my starry-eyed expression as he walks out of the bedroom within the hotel suite we’ve been staying.

I, on the other hand, am nothing short of boring. The pale-pink skirt and fitted jacket had to be worn, but I understand the importance of playing the role on some days, and for Sage, I’d do anything.

“Are you ready?” Sage asks me as we pull up in front of the palace.

I laugh, and he leans over to kiss me, reassuring my nerves for what’s in store.

The door opens as soon as we step out of the car and a butler walks out to greet us. “Prince Sage, Princess Everly, how do you do?”

It’s the first time I’m greeted as such in a formal way, and I have to hold back my laugh. Sage notices and the wink he gives me brings me back to reality. This is my life now, but as long as he’s by my side, I’ll be able to handle every step.

“Oscar, good to see you. How is my father today?” Sage asks as we approach him.

“The family is anxiously awaiting your arrival in the library. May I get you both a drink?”

“You know it,” Sage responds, slapping his shoulder as we walk away.

Sage leads me to the library, and I try not to trip over my own feet while I take in the opulence of the palace. Thankfully, Sage holds my hand as we walk, guiding me through the maze that is the hundred-twenty-thousand-square-foot mansion.

The doors to the library are already open, and his mother stands to greet us before we enter.

“Everly,” she says warmly, holding out her hands to hug me. We embrace, and when she pulls back, she holds me at arm’s length. “Thank you for being you. My heart always ached when I thought of my son not being happy with his wife. Knowing he found exactly what he was looking for brings me peace.”

I smile brightly; her words melt my heart and help to calm my nerves.

His dad clears his throat, and my world stops. His mom backs away, and I’m left standing helplessly like a wide-eyed deer in the headlights of an oncoming car.

“Father,” Sage says, walking up with his hand outstretched.

“Son,” he responds stiffly before turning back at me.

Sage turns to me, motioning me to come forward. “I know you’ve met her once before, but I’d like you to—”

He holds out his hand to stop Sage, and my stomach lurches into my throat. “Please, Sage.” He shakes his head and walks toward me. “When it was my turn to find a wife, I had five women to pick from, but for me, there was no question. The second I saw my Katheryn, I knew she was the one. It took her reminding me of those times to put myself in Sage’s shoes. I may not agree with everything the two of you have done, but I too, am happy Sage has chosen a wife, and that you’re exactly who he wanted.”

He holds out his hand to me, and I offer him mine which he grips with both of his, covering one with the other. Sage steps up beside me, brimming with pride as he wraps his arm around me.

“Everly, my dear, welcome to our family.” He smiles genuinely, finally putting all my unease to rest. Officially making me a princess.