I stepped gingerly from the royal carriage, my hand resting on the swell of my belly. The air was cool and crisp, carrying the laughter and chatter of children eagerly awaiting our arrival. King Rhys' warm hand found mine, steadying me as I navigated the cobblestone path that led to the school.
"Are you sure you're up for this, Saoirse?" Rhys’s voice was tinted with concern. His eyes, a reflection of the lush greenery surrounding us, searched my face for any sign of discomfort.
A smile stretched across my lips, albeit a bit forced due to the tightness in my back. "Of course, my love. Our kingdom's future is in those classrooms. I wouldn't miss it for the world."
As we approached the entrance, the heavy wooden doors swung open. Dozens of young faces peeked out, their eyes round with awe and excitement. They spilled onto the steps, forming a sea of bobbing heads and waving hands.
"King Rhys! Queen Saoirse!" they chorused, voices overlapping in a symphony of youthful zeal.
