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Chapter 15

The lottery had been held and everyone began to gather for the festivities. It is knowing that war is coming that made the celebration even sweeter.

Word had spread within the kingdom regarding Jason being the new King Consort and eventually, it had gotten back to Irina.

"Look who it is, the pretend future king."

AJ spun around and stared for a moment. She is breathtaking. "Aye. I am guilty as charged."

She eyed him curiously. "If Jason is King of Guildenhall what happens to Mayven?" Everyone had anticipated that Jason would be the next in line even though AJ is older.

"I will be groomed to be King."

"Does that make you happy?" She can't quite get a read on him.

"It's somewhat overwhelming, but I am determined to be successful."

"Well, I wish you luck on your new journey."

He slightly smiled. "Thank you."

"For what it is worth, I see the change in you and have heard many good things."

"Thank you. I wish it had happened long ago." He had wasted too much time rebelling instead of truly living.

Her fingers gripped his arm, setting his senses on edge. "It happened when it was supposed to. When people believe in you, it makes it easier." She has had her struggles in her family of overachievers. Being the only girl was good and bad, but by the time she got into her teens, her mother taught her to fight and demand respect, and that changed everything. Helena instilled how men viewed women at the time but also that it was completely daft and that until women own their worth, nothing will change.

"Aye. Irina, if I may be bold, I've admired you for a long time."

She catches herself before she smiles. "Why?"

AJ sucked in a breath. It was a question he wasn't prepared for but would easily rise to the occasion to answer. "I've seen you change too. While you are quite pleasing to look at, you're also smart and passionate. I've heard stories of the way you fight for people and feel it's admirable."

"You don't buy into the whole woman should be seen and not heard concept?

"No. Not only has my mother offered good guidance to my father but I've also seen how your mother and Elizabeth handle leading their people. The balance of stern and supportive is accepted readily and could teach Kings to lessen their self-importance so they lead with wisdom."

She is pleased with the answer, and Helena will be too when her spies report back. "If you fancy me, you might have a greater battle than this one."

AJ laughed. "Aye, but I am up for the challenge if you'll have me."

She smirked. "I will think of your proposal and give you my answer later."

He grinned as she hurried off. She will make a wonderful Queen.

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Jason was about to get ready when he received word that the enemy had been seen far off. That means by tomorrow night, they will be in a position to be attacked while they sleep.

Johnny ran into the room. "Come with me now."

Jason hesitated for a second but could tell from his expression that it was important, so they made their way to the roof.

"Look," he said pointing.

"Who are they?"

"Jagger went to meet them, and they are from other kingdoms who want to fight."

Jason is pleased. "Tell my father so he or one of the other Kings or Queen can welcome them. Tomorrow, Jagger can lead them to the backfield from the forest and they can bring up the rear."

Johnny nodded and took off.

Jason made his way back to his room. They can use the extra troops to surround the enemy.

His clothes are hanging up, so he studies them for a moment. While the jacket is more ornate than he'd want, it is still more conservative than most King regalia.

"You're going to look very handsome."

He turned to face his mother. "You think?"

"Aye. I'm so proud of the man you've become. Be happy, Jason. You deserve it."

He hugged her tightly before retreating. "Are you happy?" He had never asked her that before. His mother is fierce and someone he greatly admires. His parents fought sometimes, but they always worked toward agreement.

"Yes, because things are falling into place. I worried about you the most."

"Because I was fighting?"

"Of course, I worried about that, but I also trusted your abilities. However, most of my worry stemmed because I knew it could change you irrevocably."

"Maybe it has."

She shook her head. "You're still in there, Jason. My compassionate, smart, protective son is still there. You're capable of experiencing every emotion, so you are still you. You're not a machine. Never believe that. Elizabeth brings out your gentle side and reminds you that it's there. While she is a fighter, part of her is vulnerable and should be treated with care. Your strength will encourage her to share her feelings and know you will believe in her, but your gentle care will also show her that she is valued and loved. Treasure her, Jason, and she will treasure you in return."

"I will try."

"Don't try, do."

He smirked. "I love you."

She grinned. "I love you more."

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Elizabeth's stomach is fluttering as Georgie lightly applies makeup. They are both in agreement that it should be minimal.

Tiffany smiled. "You look beautiful."

Liz smiled. "Thank you."

"This was your mother's."

Tiffany lays a beautiful diamond necklace around Liz's neck and secures it. It's breathtaking but not as outrageous as some of the other pieces.

Monica had given her diamond earrings that were Lila's.

Liz sucks in a breath. "It's gorgeous. Thank you."

A woman had done Elizabeth's hair. It is swept up and braided in an elaborate bun and then a comb that Sarah had worn was placed in her hair.

Just getting dressed has been overwhelming. A myriad of emotions had come over her as she had prepared for the day. She couldn't help thinking about her family and wishing they were here.

"They are here in your heart," Gia said moving forward. "You look beautiful, Queen Elizabeth."

"Thank you. How are things going?"

Gia chuckled. "Are you referring to the matchmaking?"

"Aye."

"I have decided to put him out of his misery and let him court me."

"Good. He needs some taming."

"Aye."

"I know you must wear your headpiece, so we did something special with it."

Helena moved forward holding a box. "I hope it pleases you."

She opened it and gasped. In between the intricate pattern of diamonds and jewels, some flowers were woven around it. "It's just lovely. Thank you."

Helena took it out and placed it on her head.

"Wow," Georgie said.

Liz smiled. She is happy and hopes that Jason will appreciate their efforts.

Monica sniffed. "You look incredible."

Emily sighed. "This is so romantic." She is so excited to see her brother marry. Also, she can't wait to see John Zacchara in formalwear. He had spent time making her laugh the prior evening and she is smitten, much to Alan's dismay.

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Jason's sash is put on and then a cape is draped on his right side to finish off his outfit.

"You look very handsome," Alan said before moving forward. He patted Jason on the back. "Are your nerves running amuck?"

"Not yet."

"You'll be fine and will be in good hands."

"I'm still wrapping my head around it, but I'm hopeful."

"The sash you are wearing is a tradition in our family. Edward wore it and then I."

Jason is pleased. "That's good company."

"Aye. Wear it well."

"I will."

"You ready?"

Jason nodded.

"Let's go."

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Elizabeth smooths the front of her dress.

Sean moves closer. "You look beautiful." He wishes so badly her parents were there to witness everything.

"Thank you."

"Are you ready?"

"Aye."

He led her outside to a carriage and helped her inside. Jason entered a different one and they made the short trek to the church as people gathered and cheered.

By the time they arrived, Elizabeth and Jason were a bundle of nerves.

Sean helped her get out and then the couple locked eyes.

Elizabeth was taken by how handsome Jason looked and he was taken by her beauty too.

They met in the middle and held hands as everyone cheered.

"You look beautiful," Jason whispered.

"Thank you. You look very handsome."

"Thanks."

The church doors opened, and they made their way inside as the musicians played.

As they went through the ceremony, both can't believe it's happening. They spoke when prompted and rarely broke their gaze.

Tiffany wiped a tear away as did Monica who was beyond happy.

Usually, there isn't a connection between the bride and groom in royal weddings since they are arranged, but all could see that this was not normal, but that it could lead to love.

Once the pronouncement was made, the couple joyously turned toward everyone as raucous cheers echoed, and the festive music began to play.

They laughed as they hurried to the carriage, and once outside, flower pedals were thrown at the fleeing couple.

Jason helped Elizabeth inside and then shut the door.

"Oh my," Liz said as the carriage jolted.

"Are you happy, Elizabeth?"

"Aye, and you?"

"Aye."

She grinned. "I could eat a horse."

He chuckled. "Well, there is certainly enough food waiting to satisfy you."

She waved and then entered the castle, and they were escorted inside.

Georgie is waiting. "That was fabulous," she said excitedly. A man stepped forward and Georgie carefully removed the crown and placed it in a box and it was taken to a vault. She replaced it with a crown of beautiful flowers from Lila's garden. "There, it looks perfect.

Jason wishes he could lose the cape, but he will wear it until after they enter the great hall. As many as they could hold will be waiting inside, but there is plenty of food, drink, and tables outside too.

They waited several minutes until everyone was in place and then made the short walk to the hall. When the door was opened, the crowd erupted.

"Introducing, Queen Elizabeth and King Consort Jason Quartermaine. By declaration of the Queen, she and any children will be known as the House and Family of Quartermaine. You may refer to King Consort Jason as King." King Consort was not always used as a royal title, but Elizabeth wanted the exception. She wanted them seen as a partnership, so allowing him to be referred to as King would accomplish that.

Cheers erupted again and the music started.

They greet multiple guests and family before finally sitting.

A plate is made for them and delivered.

"So good," Elizabeth said as she ate.

Jason smiled.

After a while, they beckoned to the dancefloor and did several laps until others cut in.

"You look just lovely," Alan said.

"Thank you, and you look very handsome as well."

He smiled. "I'm glad someone noticed."

Liz laughed. "Your wife looks beautiful when she's laughing."

Alan glanced at where Jason and Monica were dancing. "Aye. I do love her smile. And this time it's honest, unlike when she's trying to get something. She was very invested in marrying Jason off."

Liz can't stop laughing. "You make her sound so wicked."

"Oh, she is but I love every minute of it."

King Robert cut in. "You look splendid, Queen Elizabeth."

"Thank you. Are you enjoying yourself?"

"Aye. The wine is plentiful, and my wife looks fabulous."

"Aye, she does."

"I wish you all the happiness in the world."

Liz smiled. "Thank you."

"He's a big lug, but a good man."

"Aye."

Jason is now dancing with Robin.

"This is so much fun."

"Does it make you want a wedding too?"

She grinned. "Maybe…"

"While today was very memorable, I'm glad I'll never have to do it again."

Robin laughed heartily. "Men…"

"Aye."

Helena cut in. "Well, don't you clean up nicely?"

He nodded.

"I had doubts initially, but I think you will have a fine union."

"She deserves to be happy."

"So do you."

He smirked.

"What?"

"Do you think Irina deserves the same?"

Helena rolled her eyes. "Yes, but I never thought it would be your brother."

Jason chuckled. "You can't argue with fate."

"Oh, yes I can, for as long as I can muster."

Elizabeth danced with Stavros. "You look handsome."

"Thank you, but I'm not as captivating as you."

She grinned. "You should save the smooth words for Gia."

He chuckled. "Aye."

"How is that going?"

He is amused that she is interested. "It's going well."

"Good. I will cheer you on from afar."

"Thanks."

The dancing was endless, but finally, the musicians took a break and she sat.

Jason handed her a drink and she quickly took a few gulps.

"I think I need to get into better shape."

"You are just fine."

Johnny smirked. "I don't know. She did look winded."

Liz scoffed. "Like you were paying attention when your eyes were glued to Georgie."

He laughed. "Tis true."

When the music resumed, Jason almost choked when John Zacchara asked his sister to dance.

"Did she just look at him like…"

Johnny busted out laughing as Jason's gaze followed the couple.

Liz shook her head. "They are a fine-looking couple."

"He's a Zacchara."

"And? He's not Claudia. He's very nice," Liz said.

"Now that I'm King consort, can I send him to the dungeons?"

"No."

Jason sighed. His gaze wanders to his father who looks equally ill.

Across the room, Maxie is watching Lucky flirt with everyone but her and is despondent.

Georgie plopped next to her. "What is wrong?"

"Nothing…"

"Maxie, you know you can tell me anything." She followed her sister's gaze just as Lucky kissed someone and then led them out of the room. "I'm sorry."

"Me too. I thought he was the one for me, but he hasn't given me a second look."

"You deserve more."

Maxie sighed. When she found out about her sister and Johnny O'Brien, she was shocked, but Georgie seemed so happy that she couldn't help being so as well. "Love always seems to evade me."

"It will come when you least expect it."

A man approached them. "Hello."

Georgie smiled. "Hello. I'm Georgie, and this is my sister Maxie."

He returned the smile. "I'm Nathan. I was wondering if Maxie would like to dance."

Maxie perked up. He is cute. "I would love to."

Georgie watched as they headed to the center of the room. She knows who Nathan is since several servants have swooned over him. He works for the Spencers.

Elizabeth and Jason danced again and then he led her to the parapet.

"It feels so nice out here."

"Aye."

"I thought we could use a breather, and the guard won't let anyone interrupt."

She slightly turned. "For that I am grateful." She had longed for some alone time with him.

"Is there something on your mind?"

"Yes."

"Go on."

She took a deep breath and blushed. "I know this may sound forward, but I don't want to wait."

"For?" While he hoped she was alluding to one thing, she could mean another.

"Tonight—us. War is imminent, and something awful could happen, I don't want to die without—you know."

He softly smiled. "It's not something you can take back."

She nodded. "While I'm aware of that, it's also a gift—one I don't want to delay. Will you consider it?" The more she thought about it, the more she decided she wanted to bond with him fully. One never knows what the future will bring which she had learned the hard way.

"Elizabeth, I will have no problem giving you that gift, I just didn't want to rush you." He wants it to be special for her.

"I understand, but it's something that I want to share with you. It will give us something to cherish and look forward to. Hopefully, it will make us fight harder to return to one another again."

His hands cupped her face. "I will gladly make love to you, but please be aware you can always say no if you change your mind."

"Okay." She is pleased she didn't have to beg.

Their lips met in the most delicious kiss.

"How long do we have to stay here?"

She laughed. "Let's get back out there so we can take leave sooner," she said pulling a laughing Jason along. God had chosen to smile on her again, and she is forever grateful.