Chapter 34: One Year Anniversary

The golden light of dawn poured into the royal palace, casting a warm glow on the grand chambers. It had been a year since Amaria and King Knox's wedding, and the kingdom of Eldoria was buzzing with excitement in celebration of their first anniversary. The air was filled with a sense of joy and anticipation, as if the palace itself was alive with the love that had blossomed over the months.

Amaria woke to the soft chirping of birds outside their window and the familiar, comforting warmth of King Knox beside her. She turned over in bed, smiling as she saw him still asleep, his features softened in a rare moment of tranquility. The past year had been nothing short of transformative for both of them. What had begun as an arranged marriage had slowly blossomed into something deeper—a partnership built on trust, affection, and love.

The memories of their wedding day, the months of learning to navigate their new roles in each other's lives, and the quiet moments of connection they'd shared over the year flooded her mind. Their love had not been instant, but it had grown in a way neither of them had expected. The bond they shared now felt like something unbreakable, something that had strengthened with each passing day.

Amaria couldn't help but smile as she remembered the first few weeks of their marriage—when they had both been tentative and unsure. But slowly, she had won the affection of King Knox, and he had opened his heart to her in ways that still took her by surprise. She thought of the late-night talks, the small gestures of kindness, the way he would reach for her hand when he thought no one was watching, and the way his touch had become a constant comfort.

Today was special, not just because of the anniversary, but because it was a reminder of how far they had come. Their love, though still a work in progress, was solidifying into something beautiful. She looked over at the sleeping King, his face relaxed, his breaths even. She could see how much he had changed over the past year—the ice around his heart had thawed, and though he was still reserved in many ways, he now carried a tenderness toward her that filled her heart with warmth.

"Happy Anniversary, my love," she whispered softly, brushing a lock of hair from his forehead.

King Knox stirred at the sound of her voice, his eyes opening slowly. When he saw her smiling down at him, a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips.

"Good morning," he murmured, his voice still thick with sleep. He reached up to touch her face, his fingers gentle against her skin. "Happy Anniversary, sweetheart."

The word, though simple, held so much meaning. She had come to love how he called her that—his endearment for her had become something she cherished.

Amaria leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his lips. "I can't believe it's been a year already," she said, her voice filled with warmth and affection. "It feels like just yesterday we were standing at the altar, unsure of what the future would hold."

Knox nodded, his gaze softening. "A lot has happened in this year, Amaria. I never imagined that things would turn out this way. But... I'm glad they did."

She smiled at him, her heart swelling with love. "Me too, my love. Me too."

Before they could say more, there was a gentle knock at the door. Amaria looked up in slight surprise as a maid entered, carrying a small tray with breakfast.

"Your Majesties, the celebration breakfast has been prepared," the maid said with a respectful bow. "The staff has also arranged a special surprise for you both."

"Thank you," Amaria replied, her heart fluttering with excitement. She turned to Knox, a playful glint in her eyes. "It seems we have a day ahead of us, my love."

Knox chuckled softly, a rare sound that always warmed her heart. "Indeed, we do."

As the maid set the tray on the table, Amaria and King Knox exchanged a look filled with understanding. Their first anniversary was a day for them to reflect on how far they had come, but it was also a celebration of the love they had built together—a love that, though not perfect, had become something strong and unwavering.

After breakfast, they spent the morning together in the garden, walking hand in hand as they reminisced about the past year. Prince Alexander, who had grown so fond of Amaria, joined them with his usual energy and enthusiasm. He had been a part of their journey as much as anyone, and his love for Amaria had grown deeper each day.

The day passed in a whirlwind of festivities. The palace staff had arranged a grand dinner in the evening, and guests from neighboring kingdoms had gathered to celebrate the royal couple's first year of marriage. There were speeches, toasts, and even performances that showcased the rich culture of Eldoria. But through it all, King Knox and Amaria remained by each other's side, their connection palpable to anyone who observed them.

As the evening drew to a close, Amaria found herself standing beside Knox, her hand nestled in his, as they looked out at the glowing lights of the palace courtyard. The night was calm, the stars twinkling above them in the clear sky.

"This year has been everything I could have hoped for," Amaria said softly, her voice full of sincerity. "I never thought I'd be able to love and be loved like this."

King Knox turned to her, his expression softer than usual. "And I never thought I would find someone like you, Amaria. You've brought light into my life in ways I can't even explain. You've given me a family, and I've come to realize that I can't imagine life without you."

Amaria smiled up at him, her heart full. "I feel the same way."

As they stood together, surrounded by the people they had come to love and cherish, it was clear that this anniversary wasn't just a celebration of their love—it was a testament to how much they had both grown, how much they had learned, and how much they still had ahead of them.

Their journey was far from over. And with each passing year, they would continue to build on the foundation they had created together—a foundation of love, trust, and unwavering devotion.