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The morning light filtered through the tall windows of Kensington Palace, casting a glow on the room. Alex stood in front of the mirror, adjusting his tie for what felt like the hundredth time. His thoughts drifted as he glanced around the room, reflecting on the twists and turns that had brought him here.
Being married to Henry was a dream come true, but it also came with challenges he hadn’t fully expected. Life as the prince consort meant managing the complexities of royal duties, media scrutiny, and the constant balance between public and private life. The relentless attention was overwhelming at times. Every gesture, every word was analyzed and broadcasted, leaving little room for mistakes.
Alex often found himself comparing his current life to his days as the First Son. Being the son of the President of the United States had its own set of pressures and public scrutiny, but it was different. In the White House, the focus was more on political maneuvers and policy implications, with a certain degree of freedom to express his opinions and champion causes. As a member of the royal family, however, everything was steeped in tradition and decorum. He had to be more measured, more diplomatic, constantly aware of the historical weight his actions carried.
Despite these challenges, Alex wouldn’t trade it for anything. Henry was his rock, his partner in every sense, and their daughter Ori was the light of their lives. Their daughter’s mischievous nature often brought chaos, but it was the kind of chaos that made life vibrant and full of love. Her endless energy and curiosity kept them on their toes, constantly reminding Alex of the joy and unpredictability that came with parenthood.
“Daddy, look!” Ori’s cheerful voice pulled him from his thoughts. Turning, he saw his three-year-old daughter sitting on the bed, holding up her tiny flower crown with a grin that could melt hearts. Dressed in an adorable white dress, her tiny feet in matching blush shoes, and her light blond hair curled softly at the ends, she was the picture of innocence.
Alex walked over, his heart swelling with love at the sight of her. Gently taking the flower crown, he placed it on her head, adjusting it carefully. “You look absolutely perfect, Ori,” he said, kissing her forehead. She giggled, reaching up to touch the flowers with her small fingers.
Henry entered the room, impeccably dressed in a tailored morning suit with a white shirt and a light blue tie, and his eyes softened at the sight of his family. “There’s my beautiful girl,” he said, kneeling to Ori’s level. “Are you ready to be the best flower girl ever?”
“Ready!” Ori declared, hugged Totoro toy tightly.
Watching them, Alex felt a surge of affection. This was his family, and despite the pressures of royal life, moments like this made it all worthwhile. The world outside could be demanding and relentless, but within these walls, he had everything he needed.
Henry stood up and placed a comforting hand on Alex’s back, the familiar gesture immediately soothing. “Nervous?” he asked, eyes twinkling with understanding. He always knew when Alex needed reassurance.
“Just a bit,” Alex admitted, straightening his jacket. “I want everything to go smoothly today.”
Today was especially significant. It was Ori’s first public event. Every camera would be trained on their daughter, every move analyzed. He wanted everything to go perfectly, not just for the sake of public perception, but to ensure that Ori’s first taste of public life was a positive one.
Henry smiled, leaning in to kiss him gently. “It will.”
They stepped out of the room, Shaan falling into step behind them. As they descended the grand staircase, Shaan began outlining the events for the day.
“Your Highnesses, we’ll start with the reception line to greet the guests,” Shaan said, his tone respectful and professional. “After that, there will be a brief photo session in the garden before joining the rest of the family in the main hall.”
Alex nodded, taking it all in. “And Ori? Will she be with us the entire time?”
Shaan glanced at the little girl, who was happily skipping down the stairs holding onto Alex’s hand. “Yes, Your Highness. Princess Ori will accompany you for the reception line and the photos.”
Henry squeezed Alex’s hand reassuringly. “It’s all planned out, love. Our daughter will be fine.”
Continuing down the staircase, the grand hall below bustled with preparations. Alex’s thoughts drifted to the man Bea was marrying. Anthony had always struck him as a solid, dependable person, someone who genuinely cared for his sister-in-law.
A well-respected architect, Anthony is known for his innovative use of sustainable materials and his ability to blend modern design with historical preservation. His work on the renovation of the historic Royal Opera House had received critical acclaim, balancing contemporary functionality with the preservation of its classic grandeur.
Alex appreciated his grounded nature and the way he supported Bea’s endeavors without overshadowing her. It was clear that they were equals in their relationship, something Alex admired deeply.
They made their way to the car, with Ori bouncing along between them. As they settled into the car, Ori climbed onto Henry’s lap, her tiny hands waving enthusiastically at the passing crowd. The streets were lined with people, their faces bright with excitement, waving back at the royal family.
“Ori, look at all the people,” Alex said, pointing out the window. “They’re here to see Auntie Bea get married.”
Ori’s eyes widened with excitement as she waved more vigorously. “Hi, peoples!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with pure joy.
Henry chuckled, holding Ori securely. “You’re quite the little star, aren’t you?”
Watching the crowd cheer and wave, Alex couldn’t help but think back to his own wedding to Henry two years ago at Westminster Abbey. The memories of that day were still vivid in his mind—the nervous anticipation, the overwhelming joy, and the sheer magnitude of the event. Their wedding had been a union not just of two people, but of two worlds. It was a day filled with love and promise, much like Bea’s wedding today.
“Thinking about our wedding?” Henry asked softly, careful not to disturb Ori, who was still waving at the crowd.
Alex nodded, a smile tugging at his lips. “It feels like it was just yesterday. The excitement, the nerves… It’s all coming back.”
“Today is just as special,” Henry said, placing a kiss on the top of their daughter’s head. “Bea deserves all the happiness in the world, and Anthony is a good man.”
Approaching St. George’s Chapel, its magnificence came into full view. The chapel stood regal and imposing, its stone walls adorned with beautiful floral arrangements. Guests were already arriving; women in elegant dresses spanning a spectrum of pastel colors, complemented by elaborate hats and fascinators, while men were dressed in sharp morning suits, complete with waistcoats and ties, some sporting traditional top hats.
The car pulled to a stop, and as they stepped out, the crowd erupted in cheers. Alex felt a familiar mix of pride and anxiety. Henry set Ori down on the ground, and she waved enthusiastically at the people, her tiny hand flapping with all the energy of a three-year-old.
“Hi!” Ori called out, her voice barely audible over the crowd’s roar. The wind picked up as they began to climb the stairs, ruffling Alex’s hair and causing Ori’s dress to flutter. Alex kept a close eye on her, knowing how easily she could get distracted.
A sudden gust of wind whipped around them, catching Ori off guard. Still waving to the gathered crowd, her little foot slipped, and she stumbled forward dangerously. Alex’s heart skipped a beat as he saw his daughter falter. Henry’s hand shot out in a reflex to steady her, but Alex was quicker, sweeping their daughter into his arms before she could fall.
“It’s okay, sweetheart, Papa’s got you,” Alex murmured soothingly as he held her close. Ori’s face crumpled, her big eyes welling up with tears from the shock and the fright of nearly falling. She clung to Alex, burying her face in his shoulder as a few tears escaped, dampening his suit.
He could feel his heart pounding against his chest, the adrenaline still surging through him from the scare. Kissing her forehead gently, he whispered, “You’re safe now, love. No more scares.”
Henry, looking visibly relieved, adjusted his stance beside them and rubbed Ori’s back, helping to calm her. “The wind’s a bit strong today, isn’t it?” he said, trying to lighten the mood for Ori.
As Ori calmed down, her grip loosened slightly, and she began to relax, comforted by the safety of her father’s arms. Alex could feel her steadying breaths as she nestled closer, the initial shock fading away.
“Look, Ori,” Alex gently encouraged, nodding towards the crowd that continued to wave and cheer for them. “Everyone’s so happy to see you. Can you wave back, just one more time before we go inside, baby?”
Ori peeked shyly from her safe perch in Alex’s arms, her earlier tears forgotten but her usual boldness tempered by the earlier scare. With a little nod, she slowly raised her hand and gave a small, tentative wave to the crowd. Her gesture, though shy, was met with a warm burst of cheers and applause.
Henry smiled down at her, eyes filled with pride for their daughter. “That’s my brave girl.”
At the top of the steps, they were greeted by Ms. Charlotte Jenkins, the wedding coordinator. She extended her hand to Alex and Henry, who each gave it a firm shake, then she curtsied politely. “Your Highnesses, I’ll take care of Princess Ori from here,” she said, turning to Ori with a gentle smile.
“Hello, Ori! Ready to join the other flower girls?” Charlotte asked in a soft, inviting tone.
Ori looked up at Charlotte, then back at her parents. “Okay,” she said, reaching out timidly to take Charlotte’s hand.
Before they parted, Alex noticed his daughter’s eyes shined as she spotted her grandparents, President Claremont and Senator Diaz, waving at her from the crowd. “Papa, look! Abuela!” she shouted, pointing happily.
Alex giggled softly, feeling his heart fill with love. “Yes, honey. We’ll go say hi to them soon, okay?”
He knelt to fix Ori’s dress one last time. “There we go, all set. Remember to walk slowly and follow what Ms. Jenkins tells you,” he instructed softly. Henry crouched beside him, smoothing down Ori’s hair and placing a kiss on her cheek.
“You’ll do great, my darling. Just like we practiced,” Henry added with an encouraging smile.
Ori nodded, now more assured. “Okay, Daddy.”
They watched as Charlotte led Ori to the line of flower girls and page boys, organizing them for their walk down the aisle. Once Ori was settled, Alex and Henry proceeded to their seats. They were seated towards the front, on the right side, with a clear view of the aisle and the altar.
Watching Ori meld into the group of small, eagerly chatting flower girls, Alex felt a flutter of nervous anticipation. “Do you think she’ll manage alright without getting too shy?” he whispered, his voice tinged with concern.
“She’ll be fine,” Henry whispered back, his confidence soothing Alex’s nerves. “She always surprises us with how well she handles new situations. Just like practice, right?”
As the organ music heralded the start of the ceremony, all eyes shifted to the entrance. There was Philip, looking dignified and proud, leading Bea down the aisle. Bea radiated happiness, the soft light streaming through the stained glass windows of St. George’s Chapel illuminated her path, casting gentle reflections on her tiara and the delicate fabric of her dress.
From their seats, Alex watched intently as the procession of flower girls and page boys, including Ori, began their march. Ori, clutching a small basket filled with petals, took cautious steps at first. Her eyes scanned the gathered crowd, searching for familiar faces. When she spotted Alex and Henry, her face lit up with joy, and she began waving excitedly, her earlier hesitation forgotten.
Seeing his daughter’s joy, Alex felt a burst of emotion. Henry, noticing the change in Alex’s expression, gave a quiet chuckle. “See? She’s more than fine. She’s shining.”
“Yeah,” Alex murmured.
When Ori reached the front and took her place among the other children, the main ceremony took over Alex’s attention. The vows were deeply moving, spoken earnestly by Bea and Anthony. The priest’s words echoed, speaking of love, commitment, and the journey they were embarking on together.
When the ceremony concluded with the pronouncement of Bea and Anthony as husband and wife, the chapel erupted into applause. The newlyweds’ faces glowed with happiness as they turned to face their friends and family, beginning their walk back down the aisle with triumphant smiles, leading the way out of the chapel.
Behind them, the royal family and other esteemed guests prepared to follow in orderly procession. Alex and Henry swiftly made their way over to where Ori had been standing with the other flower girls. Spotting her parents approaching, Ori’s face lit up with excitement and a hint of relief.
“You were absolutely wonderful, my dearest love!” Henry praised, lifting her into his arms. Ori beamed, basking in the praise and the comforting embrace of her father.
Alex gently adjusted a ribbon in Ori’s hair. “We’re so proud of you, sweetheart. You walked beautifully, just like we practiced,” he affirmed, his voice radiating love and pride.
Henry, carrying Ori, followed behind the new royal couple with Alex by his side as they all proceeded out of the chapel. “Did you enjoy being a flower girl?” he asked.
“Yes, Daddy! I throwed the flowers like this!” Ori demonstrated with enthusiastic hand gestures, mimicking how she had scattered petals down the aisle. Her spirited display drew a chuckle from both her fathers.
“That’s wonderful, sweetheart,” Alex chirped. “You looked every bit like a little princess out there.”
“Did you see all the people watching you?” Henry asked, adjusting Ori so she could see his face better.
“Yes! I saw Abuela and Abuelo too!” Ori’s voice was full of wonder, her eyes scanning the crowd for her grandparents as she spoke.
“They were very proud of you, just like we are,” Alex added, ensuring Ori felt the full support of her entire family.
* * *
The reception at Buckingham Palace unfolded with all the splendor befitting such a grand occasion. As Alex, Henry, and Ori made their way through the decorated hall, the glittering chandeliers cast a warm, welcoming light over the gathering of dignitaries and esteemed guests.
Their daughter, who had paraded down the aisle with confidence earlier, now seemed overwhelmed by the sea of unfamiliar faces. She clung to Alex’s legs, her earlier enthusiasm dimmed, her small body almost hidden behind the safety of his presence.
Sensing her discomfort, Alex knelt down to her level. “Baby, do you want to try saying hello with Papa?” he suggested gently, offering his hand. “We can do it together.”
Ori looked up at him and nodded slowly, her small hand slipping into his. Together, they approached the next group of dignitaries. “Say hello, Ori,” Alex encouraged as they stopped in front of a smiling couple adorned in formal attire.
Ori peeked shyly from behind Alex, then extended her other hand slightly. “Hello,” she managed to say, before quickly retreating back to the safety of her father’s side.
Henry, watching fondly, joined them and gently caressed his daugher’s hair as he added, “Ori’s been a wonderful flower girl today. She’s just a little shy right now.”
The dignitaries laughed understandingly, nodding at Ori with gentle smiles. “She’s done marvelously,” one of them commented.
As they progressed through the receiving line, Ori’s grip on Alex’s leg starts to loosened, her comfort growing as they encountered more familiar faces. When they finally reached Ellen and Oscar, the toddler’s demeanor changed dramatically. The sight of her grandparents ignited a spark of excitement, and she released Alex’s leg to reach towards Ellen with eager, grabby motions.
Ellen, with a laugh of delight, lifted Ori into her arms. “Oh, there’s my little star!” she exclaimed, rubbing her nose against Ori’s, which drew giggles from the toddler.
Henry grinned, clearly relieved to see his daughter so happy. “She’s been talking about seeing you two all day,” he told them.
Oscar patted Henry on the back, his eyes shining with grandfatherly pride. “We watched her during the ceremony. Walked down the aisle like she owned it,” he said.
Ellen, holding Ori snugly, turned to the little one with a smile. “And how did you enjoy the rest of the day, my dear?” she asked gently.
Feeling completely at ease now, Ori’s eyes lit up. “Abuela, so many flowers! I throwed them everywhere!” She waved her hands in the air to show her grandmother how she did it. “Music was pretty. Big piano and a man singing. I liked it!”
Ellen nodded, her eyes twinkling with delight. “That sounds wonderful, Ori. Did you see all the people smiling at you?”
“Uh-huh!” Ori beamed. “Everybody looked at me, and I saw Daddy and Papa smiling too. Lots of sparkly lights. Like a fairy tale!”
Listening nearby, Alex felt his heart swell with love. Hearing Ori describe the day with such innocent wonder made all the challenges worth it. He joined the conversation, adding, “You were the star of the show, Ori. Everyone loved seeing you.”
“And then, Abuela,” Ori continued, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, “there was this big cake. I wanted to touch it, but Daddy said no.”
Ellen chuckled, rubbing her nose against Ori’s again, eliciting more giggles. “Well, maybe later we can all have a piece together. How does that sound?”
Nodding vigorously, Ori’s said, “Yes, please! Can I have the flowers from the cake too, Abuela?”
Henry, who had been standing by, leaned in with a smile. “We’ll see about that, darling. But right now, why don’t we go say hello to some more people? They’re all very excited to meet you.”
Snuggling back into Ellen’s arms, Ori looked over at Alex and Henry, her eyes sparkling with joy. “Okay, Daddy. But only if Abuela comes with us.”
“Of course, my angel,” Ellen said, pressing her cheek against Ori’s. “I’ll be right here with you.”
After the evening drew to a close, Alex and Henry gathered their belongings, ready to head back to Kensington Palace. The day had been long and emotionally charged, leaving Alex with a comforting sense of contentment as they settled into the car for the ride home.
Alex unbuttoned his shirt and carefully cradled Ori against his chest. The little girl, still bubbling with excitement from the day, eagerly latched on and began to feed, her small hand clutching her toy.
Henry looked down at their daughter, his eyes filled with affection. “She had such an exciting day, didn’t she?” he murmured. “The last time I saw her this thrilled was when we took her to the Grand Prix last year.”
Alex nodded, his fingers gently caressing Ori’s chubby cheek. “She really did. Today was special for all of us.” As he observed their daughter, her eyelids grew heavy, and her sucking slowed. Milk began to dribble from the corner of her mouth, and soon she drifted off to sleep, her mouth partly open in a blissful, milk-drunk state.
Henry tightened his embrace around Alex, planting a kiss on his temple. “Our baby girl is growing so quickly,” he murmured, a hint of wistfulness in his voice.
Alex instinctively held Ori closer at Henry’s words. He gazed down at their sleeping daughter, her innocent face radiating peace. If only she could remain this small forever, he thought, feeling a mix of longing and profound love for her. These moments were fleeting, and he wanted to savor each one.
“I know,” Alex replied softly.
The car pulled up to Kensington Palace, and the day’s events began to catch up with them. Carefully cradling Ori, who was still sound asleep, he shifted her weight in his arms. Her tiny hands clutched her Totoro toy, which dangled precariously as they exited the car. Henry swiftly caught their daughter’s toy before it could tumble to the ground.
“Thanks,” Alex whispered, grateful for his husband’s quick reflexes.
They walked through the entrance and up to Ori’s room. The nursery, adorned with a whimsical jungle mural, felt like a safe haven after the day’s excitement. Alex gently laid Ori on her changing table, her peaceful face lit by the soft glow of the room’s nightlight.
Henry handed him Ori’s pajamas—a soft, cozy set perfect for her. “Let’s get you changed, love,” Alex murmured, carefully removing her dress and replacing it with the pajamas. Ori stirred slightly but remained mostly asleep, her little fists rubbing her eyes before she settled back into a deep slumber.
“Today was a big day for her,” Henry said quietly, his eyes softening as he watched Alex tend to their daughter. “And she did so well.”
Alex’s hold on Ori tightened slightly at the thought. He looked down at her, her small chest rising and falling with each breath.“I want her to stay this little forever,” he murmured softly. As he cradled her, he couldn’t help but feel a connection to the time when she was still growing in his womb, a precious memory that he cherished dearly.
“She’ll always be our baby, no matter how big she gets,” Henry reassured, his hand brushing against Alex’s back.
They gently placed Ori in her bed, tucking her in with her favorite plush blanket. Alex stroked her chubby cheek, noting how peaceful she looked. “Goodnight, my heart,” he whispered, bending down to kiss her cheek.
Henry smiled, his eyes meeting Alex’s. “Let’s go to bed,” he said before kissing Ori’s forehead. “Sweet dreams, my love,” he murmured.
END