The Archduke's Songbird-Chapter 259: A Beautiful Wedding

Jessamyn got ready for the wedding with a sense of excitement that seemed to lift her spirit. As she slipped into her gown, the soft fabric whispering against her skin, she couldn’t help but smile at the thought of the day ahead.

Her hair was done in a detailed bun with the tiara fit rightly on her head. Jerrick had gotten her a new set of jewelry to match her dress and she glittered in the sunlight.

More than spending time getting ready herself, she found immense pleasure in dressing her husband, Jerrick.

His military dress coat, although simple and elegant to look at, had many intricate details that required careful attention to make it appear put together. Jessamyn loved every moment of it.

"Stand still," she chided gently, a playful smile on her lips as Jerrick shifted slightly.

"I can’t help it," he grumbled good-naturedly, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "You’re fussing over me like a mother hen."

"Well, someone has to make sure you look your best," she retorted, deftly fastening the ornate buttons on his coat. Each button was embossed with the insignia of his rank, shining proudly against the deep blue fabric. She smoothed the coat over his broad shoulders, admiring the way it fit him so perfectly, accentuating his strong build.

Jerrick watched her with a tender expression, his heart swelling with love as she meticulously adjusted his uniform. Her fingers moved with practiced ease, ensuring every detail was in place. The epaulets on his shoulders, the braids on his chest, each piece carefully aligned under her watchful eye.

"Does it really take this long to get dressed?" he teased, his voice a low murmur.

She glanced up at him, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of affection and mock annoyance. "If you want to look perfect, then yes, it does."

He laughed softly, the sound resonating deep in his chest. "As long as I have you by my side, I’ll endure it."

Her heart fluttered at his words, and she reached up to smooth his collar, her fingers brushing against the warm skin of his neck. "Where did you learn to say the sweetest things?"

"It’s the truth," he said, capturing her hand and bringing it to his lips. He kissed her knuckles tenderly, his eyes never leaving hers. "You make everything better, Mynah."

Once his uniform was complete, she stepped back to admire her handiwork. He looked every bit the dashing soldier, his uniform pristine and his eyes gleaming.

"You’re perfect," she said, her voice filled with pride.

He took her hand, bringing it to his lips once more. "And you, my love, are the most beautiful woman in the world."

She blushed at his words, feeling the warmth of his love envelop her. "Come on," she said, tugging at his hand. "We have a wedding to attend."

Jerrick bent down to her abdomen, placing a gentle kiss on the swell of her belly. "Don’t bother your mother," he whispered softly, his voice filled with tenderness. "We have a big day ahead."

Jessamyn’s heart melted at the sight of him, his strong form bent in such a tender act of love. She ran her fingers through his hair, a soft smile playing on her lips. "You’re going to be an amazing father," she murmured, her voice filled with emotion.

Seeing him like that gave her relief when she thought about the future.

He looked up at her, his eyes shining with love and determination. "And you, Jessamyn, are going to be the most wonderful mother," he replied, standing up and wrapping his arms around her. He pulled her close, their bodies fitting together perfectly.

As they entered the main hall, the buzz of anticipation grew louder. Cordelia’s wedding was the event of the season, and everyone was eager to witness the union of the beloved princess and her prince. Jessamyn felt a sense of pride and joy, knowing that she had played a part in helping Cordelia prepare for this day.

She wanted to take a peek at Cordelia before the wedding ceremony but her family had formed a tight group around her. 𝒇𝒓𝙚𝒆𝔀𝓮𝓫𝒏𝓸𝙫𝓮𝓵.𝓬𝙤𝙢

Jessamyn did manage to take a glance at Cordelia. "She looks so radiant," she told Jerrick as he was the one beside her. Isadora was assigned a seat with Bernard and they were seated in the front along with the Grand Duke.

Jerrick followed her gaze and smiled. "She does," he agreed. Jessamyn could see that he agreed just for the sake of it. At times, he acts as if there is no one else in the world other than her.

She loved that feeling.

Throughout the ceremony, Jerrick’s hand remained in hers. She needed it. She glanced at him, her heart swelling with gratitude for the man who stood by her side. He caught her gaze and smiled, a silent promise to renew the vows of their marriage.

As the vows were exchanged and Cordelia and her prince were pronounced husband and wife, Jessamyn felt tears of joy slip down her cheeks. Jerrick gently wiped them away, his touch tender and loving.

Jessamyn was curious as to what the wedding gift would be. Louis didn’t disappoint. He gave Cordelia a grand tiara with diamonds as big as grapes and a matching necklace to go with it. Jessamyn had a feeling it would have a bracelet and an earring set which would look majestic if worn together. Nothing short for the future queen—Jessamyn was delighted.

As the newlyweds made their way back down the aisle, hand in hand, Jessamyn and Jerrick stood and joined the applause. They looked at each other, a shared understanding passing between them. Today was a celebration of love, not just for Cordelia and her prince, but for them as well.

The reception ceremony was held in the evening and Jessamyn changed into another exquisite evening gown. The hall was decorated beautifully. Music floated through the air, and dancers twirled gracefully across the floor. The soft glow of candlelight and the twinkling chandeliers cast a magical ambiance over the celebration.

Jessamyn felt a flutter of excitement as she walked into the hall, her gown shimmering with every step. Jerrick, by her side, looked dashing in his formal attire. He held her hand, guiding her through the throng of guests.

They found their seats at a beautifully adorned table, where they could see the entire hall. Cordelia and Louis were seated at the head of the room, their faces glowing with happiness. Jessamyn couldn’t help but smile at the sight of her dear friend so blissfully in love.

Jerrick leaned in close, his breath warm against her ear. "You look stunning," he whispered, his voice filled with admiration.

Jessamyn blushed, her heart racing at his words. "And you look incredibly handsome," she replied, squeezing his hand.

The evening progressed with heartfelt toasts, laughter, and joyful tears. As the night went on, Jerrick and Jessamyn found themselves on the dance floor, swaying to the gentle rhythm of the music. Jerrick held her close, his strong arms wrapped around her waist, and she rested her head against his chest.

"Are you enjoying the night?" Jerrick asked, his voice a soft murmur.

"Very much," Jessamyn replied, looking up into his eyes. "It’s perfect."

As they continued to dance, lost in each other’s embrace, the world around them seemed to fade away. They were caught in their own little bubble of love and happiness, oblivious to everything else.

Suddenly, the entire hall erupted in hushed whispers. Jessamyn, momentarily taken aback, noticed everyone’s eyes fixed on the dance floor. The sea of onlookers prevented her from seeing what had drawn their attention. Murmurs of shock, pity, and even mocking smirks spread through the crowd like wildfire.

"Jerrick, what is it?" Jessamyn asked, sensing something had gone terribly wrong. Her heart pounded as she searched his face for answers.

Jerrick’s face had turned pale, his eyes wide with disbelief. He opened his mouth to speak but hesitated, his expression a mixture of anger and concern. "Stay close to me," he finally said, his voice low and urgent. He tightened his grip on her hand, pulling her closer.